18 Scrumptious Cafes In Byron Bay & Beyond

Byron Bay’s cafes are up there with some of the best in the country. Heres a list of some of our favourites.

Byron Bay is one of the few regional towns in Australia that’s on the top of everyone’s destination dining list. The local crowd here is decidedly in the know and one of the many reasons the food culture is so insanely good is because the town’s denizens – a mix of long-term locals and smug sea changers – demand it. Note: make sure you don’t leave it too late in the day, as many cafes don’t stay open past 2 pm, especially when the surf’s up. Here’s the scoop on the best cafes in and around Byron Bay.

1. Folk

Folk is a local bolthole that treats vegetarians as VIPs . It’s also popular with flexitarians who come here to eat and eat well. The garden cafe is tacked onto a caravan park, with tree stumps serving as stools and railway sleepers defining the veggie patch. There’s nothing that will evoke ‘happy holiday memories’ like the smashed avo on organic sourdough (of course) with house-made dukkah and just-plucked garden greens.

Breakfast and hot drinks from Folk in Byron Bay — Come to Folk to eat and eat well. (Image: Jess Kearney)

A fave with hungry surfers is the Folk burrito with spiced biodynamic brown rice and quinoa with organic black beans, spiced kraut and cumin-roasted pumpkin. Craving something sweet? Try the house-made vegan banana bread and chocolate brownies.

a set meal at Folk cafe, Byron Bay — Nourish your tummy and palate with healthy meals at Folk. (Image: Jess Kearney)

Address: Lot 1, 399 Ewingsdale Road, Byron Bay NSW

2. Yulli’s Byron Bay

Yulli’s has taken its vegan venue concept and sprouted in Byron Bay . The plant-based menu, like Yulli’s Brews and Yulli’s Surry Hills, has mod-Asian accents and is paired with a diverse drinks list made up of vegan wines, spirits and cocktails.

Inside Yulli’s Byron Bay — Yulli’s Byron Bay has a standout plant-based menu served inside a funky space.

The turmeric cauliflower pad thai, eggplant involtini and crispy tofu with green papaya and Asian herbs are just some examples of the modern plant-based fare on offer. The space itself is stunning, an extravagance of raw wood and images of Asian pop culture. At night, Yulli’s gets a glow-up thanks to its stunning neon light installations.

Address: 2/1 Carlyle Street, Byron Bay NSW

3. Roadhouse

The Roadhouse (The Roady to locals) is a rustic-chic wonderland that is open for breakfast and lunch daily. Located on Bangalow Road on the outskirts of Byron, The Roady is where you’ll find a crowd of dreadlocked travellers and digital nomads getting revved up over coffee before starting the day.

two people having breakfast at Roadhouse , Byron Bay — Enjoy chill vibes amid the morning rush at Roadhouse. (Image: Oli Ayo)

Grab a spot in the sunny courtyard filled with the comforting fragrance of burning wood for shakshuka in a tomato and capsicum Sauce with olives, feta and sourdough.

guests dining under huge umbrellas outside Roadhouse cafe, Byron Bay — Dine al fresco under huge umbrellas outside the cafe. (Image: Oli Ayo)

Address: 6/142 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay NSW

4. Combi Byron Bay

Combi Byron Bay doffs its hat to the surfers and hippies who converged here in the 1960s and ‘70s in their VWs and helped to shape the northern NSW town. The Combi-sized eatery, located a couple blocks away from Main Beach, spills out onto a courtyard that has a surf-shack groove.

a chic and minimalist cafe interior at Combi Byron Bay — Combi Byron Bay’s cafe interior is chic and minimalist.

Combi is a honeypot for locals and visitors young and old, who stroll down here after a Bikram yoga sesh to inhale cold-pressed juices as iridescent green as the surrounding jungle.

Acai bowl from Combi Byron Bay — Combi is a honeypot for locals and visitors young and old.

Address: 25 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay NSW

5. Vagabond

Join the convoy of van-lifers travelling to this bright and happy space in the Byron industrial estate’s Habitat . The cafe offers nourishing plant-based food and a range of provisions you can procure for a picnic. You’ll find bullet-proof coffee (of course), as well as cold-pressed juices and smoothies, a rotating roster of salads, bowls and cakes that explain the cafe’s cult following.

Outside the Vagabond cafe in Byron Bay — Enjoy healthy smoothies, delicious salads, nourish bowls, unbeatable cakes and fresh flowers at Vagabond.

Arrive early in the morning to get a jump on the queue. Vagabond uses its own 100 per cent organic house blend that has been the blend of choice here for more than a decade. Take your food and kick back on the pretty lawn area with a motley crew of travellers and locals.

Baristas making coffee at Vagabond in Byron Bay — Vagabond uses its own 100 per cent organic coffee blend.

Address: 1 Porter Street, Byron Bay NSW

6. Tones at Soko

Head to Byron Bay’s industrial estate to enjoy a dreamy piccolo made using Allpress Espresso at Tones at Sōko . Part of the appeal of the cafe, which is adjacent to the St Agni fashion store, is that it’s not showy, so rocking up in your Uggs and PJs is an acceptable vibe. Sit outside in the leafy courtyard, which plays host to regular block parties. Open weekdays from 7 am to 2 pm, its the perfect place to recharge and reset with a cuppa.

Address: 4 Acacia Street, Byron Bay NSW

7. The Byron Bay General Store

The Byron Bay General Store is a local institution, proudly serving locals and travellers since 1947 in one of Byron’s oldest commercial buildings. Gather in the earthy eatery, which was once home to Greys Store, Craig’s Store and Macs Milk Bar, to eat, drink and stock up on local goods that include everything from gourmet granola to cold-pressed juices.

Address: 26 Bangalow Road, Byron Bay NSW

8. Federal Doma Cafe

Doma is a charming little cafe , tucked away in the adorable village of Federal and run by two local Japanese chefs. The service at Doma is friendly and attentive, and the atmosphere is so warm you’d swear you are in a Japanese kissaten. Doma means ‘dirt place’, referring to an area of hard compacted dirt found in the entranceway to most traditional Japanese homes. And it’s a nod to the earthiness of the cafe itself.

an al fresco dining setup with picnic tables and umbrellas at Federal Doma Cafe, Byron Bay — Get closer to nature at Federal Doma Cafe.

Spend the morning surfing then head for the hills to enjoy brunch at the petite cafe, which is housed in a character-filled cottage. Doma does a very nice line of dishes, not all of which have Japanese accents. The sushi is stellar, which is to be expected. But there’s also a thoughtful list of grain bowls and burgers.

a lush garden setting at Federal Doma Cafe, Byron Bay — Federal Doma Cafe is known for its lush garden setting.

On a road-trip from Byron Bay to Sydney? Doma devotees will know to stop off at its sister cafe Qudo in Bellingen, three hours’ south of Byron.

Address: 3/6 Albert Street, Federal NSW

9. Three Blue Ducks Byron Bay

Have you even been to Byron Bay if you didn’t visit The Farm and have lunch at Three Blue Ducks ? The restaurant’s aim is to ‘grow, feed, educate and give back’ while respecting real ingredients, supporting local growers and embracing the artisanal food movement.

People at Three Blue Ducks in Byron — The Three Blue Ducks’ aim is to ‘grow, feed, educate, give back’. (Image: Kitty Gould)

Sit in the rustic farm-style cafe, about 8.5 kilometres from Byron Bay, to enjoy nourishing food and great coffee. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, you can also drift around The Farm or order a hamper to enjoy on the grounds.

Food shot from Three Blue Ducks in Byron — The Three Blue Ducks near Byron Bay is open for breakfast, lunch and sometimes dinner. (Image: Kitty Gould)

Address: 11 Ewingsdale Road, Ewingsdale NSW

10. Top Shop

A sit-down meal at Top Shop in Byron Bay translates to lazing on a blanket on a lawn littered with friendly folk, who all seem to share a kind of cloud-clearing optimism. The Top Shop has always been the best spot to get the lowdown on what’s happening in Byron.

Whether you’re in search of a cup of expertly made coffee or a bacon and egg roll, the hippy-chic cafe housed in an old 1950s milk bar has an arty ambience and an edgy young crowd of creatives that will see you eavesdropping on their more interesting lives until the early arvo.

Address: 65 Carlyle Street, Byron Bay NSW

11. Bayleaf

Bayleaf Cafe is a long-time favourite with locals and visitors alike. Order up a coffee from Gold Coast roaster Blackboard – a tried and tested blend of ethically sourced beans – while you peruse the menu.

Barista making coffee at Bayleaf in Byron Bay — Bayleaf Cafe is a long-time favourite with locals and visitors alike.

The menu here is packed with goodness, focusing on seasonal, fresh and local ingredients throughout its dishes. Bayleaf has also recently introduced a curated wine, beer and cocktail menu. You’ll find plenty of seating inside and out, but you might have to wait a bit for a table during peak times – it’s worth it. Peruse the well-stocked shelves while you wait.

The Sweet Potato Flatbread made with purple kumara flatbread, pumpkin and confit garlic puree, roasted heirloom Dutch carrots, kale and cherry tomatoes from Bayleaf Byron Bay — Try the Sweet Potato Flatbread made with purple kumara flatbread.

Address: 2A Marvell Street, Byron Bay NSW

12. Beach Byron Bay

The location of the Beach Byron Bay cafe is hard to beat, as it’s one of the only cafes in Byron that has direct access to the beach. You can choose to dine in the more formal restaurant section or order takeaway from the dinky kiosk window.

view of people at the beach from Beach Byron Bay cafe — The beach is just a stone’s throw away. (Image: Nikki To)

The cafe is an everyday spot thanks to the kiosk, where you can grab an egg and bacon roll and a coffee, then head straight down to the beach. Book a table if you’re here with your A-list entourage to enjoy lunch with a view.

Mushroom and halloumi croissant from the Beach Byron Bay — Grab something to eat before heading to the beach. (Image: Nikki To)

Address: 2 Massinger Street, Byron Bay NSW

13. Woods

If you go down to the Woods today, you’re in for a big surprise. And by that we mean delicious seasonal, local and sustainable dining in a very cute, rustic space in boho-chic Bangalow, just a 10-minute drive from Byron Bay.

Exterior of Woods cafe in Byron Bay — Expect delicious seasonal, local and sustainable dining at Woods.

Woods prides itself on building community and spreading good vibes. The cafe is situated near the bustling weekly farmers’ market in Bangalow and first impressions are that it makes the perfect place for a heart-starting java and to nab some fresh produce. It is the place to go to find your tribe and bask in the simplicity of the cafe, set to casual mode. The impossibly hip staff here also aim to please.

Address: 10 Station Street, Bangalow NSW

14. Mangosteen

Mangosteen is a cute local favourite, also tucked behind the main drag of Bangalow. It’s only open for lunch and serves delicious Japanese dishes in a very relaxed and casual setting. Japanese owners Yuki and Kyohei arrived in Bangalow a few years back, when they visited Byron Bay chasing waves.

a plate of dumplings at Mangosteen, Byron Bay — Have a taste of Mangosteen’s umami-rich dumplings.

The eatery serves sushi for lunch, as well as delectable Asian-inspired grab-and-go deli foods. If you visit on Saturday night, you’re in for a good time as it’s Ramen Night! Mangosteen has a sister restaurant and brewery of the same name in Japan.

Address: 38 Byron Street, Bangalow NSW

15. Clunes Store

Clunes Store is so much more than just a general store. The fire-engine red premises is a boutique wine cellar, bustling cafe and post office, an easy-going place with knowledgeable staff and a whole lot of heart. Clunes recently expanded the cafe concept to include lunch, serving a carefully curated list of wine and cheese, local produce and provisions from within.

This is a wonderful, multifaceted cafe/general store in the hills, which is worth visiting on a road trip to Byron. The menu is extensive, so if you can’t see the forest for the trees, order the fresh sticky chai.

Address: 33 Main Street, Clunes NSW

16. High Life

High Life is a tiny little spot tucked off the main road of Byron Bay, where you’ll find some of the best breakfast and lunch options on offer. Byron is packed with cafes, restaurants and bars that do justice to Australia’s most revered dish: avocado on toast. But the ingredients here are both organic and seasonal and the avocado is so freshly smashed it presents like it has a pulse.

a barista mixing coffee at High Life, Byron Bay — Let the barista mix your fave coffee blend.

While it’s neighbouring Nimbin that has a pot festival, the High Life is a wry wink at the stoners who have congregated in Byron for decades. You might find a few here with the munchies, ordering the amazing mushies on toast. Everything here is seasonal and nutritious. The drinks menu includes a range of warm beverages and tonics, including Allpress Espresso coffee. Make sure to swing by during the week as it’s not open on weekends.

the dining setup in high Life, Byron Bay — Pop into High Life for a memorable meal.

Address: Shop 5/103 Jonson Street, Byron Bay NSW

17. Keith

Keith is a gorgeous little cafe in the heart of Murwillumbah, serving specialty coffee by local Byron Bay roaster, Beam Coffee. The new owners of Keith are sensitive to the fact that not all diners in the region are vegan and vegetarian.

Fresh hot pies, toasties with hand-cut Mt Warning smoked ham, brie and caramelised onion jam are great examples of what the little cafe does best. The kitchen team also reach for local seasonal fruit and vegetables for most dishes available.

Address: 132 Murwillumbah Street, Murwillumbah NSW

18. Old Maids

Meet with your motley crew of mates with mullets for a slow morning over coffee and brekky burgers at Old Maids in Brunswick Heads . This old-school burger joint focuses on doing simple things well. It’s Brunswick Heads, so there will always be a plant-based burger on offer. But the meat and poultry patties are also ethically sourced and of the highest quality.

While burgers are the specialty here, you can also grab a range of classic breakfast options as well as smoothies, shakes and cold and hot brews.

Address: 30 Tweed Street, Brunswick Heads NSW

Keep reading our Byron Bay travel guide for the latest insider tips and more.

Make this dazzling stretch of beaches and natural wonders your home base for a grand adventure

Whether you’re setting out solo, bringing a mate, or packing in the whole family, no road trip along Australia’s East Coast is complete without at least a few days spent exploring the Coffs Coast. A stunning stretch of NSW coastline nestled between ancient high-elevation rainforests and magnificent, undiscovered beaches, Coffs offers amazing biodiversity, stunning natural beauty, and heaps of local charm, without the crowds. Pull up in Coffs Harbour , your perfect home base for these unforgettable day-trips.

1. Southern Beaches

The Coffs region boasts 30 of Australia’s most beautiful, unspoiled beaches, directly abutting a dramatic tableau of mountains and rainforests. Drive South of Coffs Harbour to find up-and-coming surf destinations where it’s still possible to catch an empty wave. First up is the picturesque Sawtell village . Wander the famous fig-tree-lined main street packed with laid-back places to eat and drink. Enjoy panoramic views and seasonal whale sightings at Bonville Headland on the Southern end of the beach.

Nearby Bongil Bongil National Park boasts seven kilometres of empty beach, along with hiking and cycling trails through beachfront rainforests – keep an eye out for koalas living in the trees. Boambee Beach and Boambee Creek Reserve are great for families, with shallow waters perfect for kayaking and SUPing, plus an off-leash dog beach.

family eating lunch in sawtell — Experience small-town charm in Sawtell.

2. Orara Valley Tourist Trail

The Orara Valley Tourist Trail has it all: hinterland bushwalks, birdwatching, horse riding, pristine swimming holes and rolling green pastures dotted with dairy farms and historic villages. And it’s only 15 minutes west of Coffs Harbour.

Sample produce at a roadside stall, stop into Coramba Hotel for a quintessential country pub lunch, or try the Idle in Cafe in Nana Glen for coffee and scones. Then spend the afternoon kayaking the Orara River or mountain biking on Mt Coramba. If you’re feeling adventurous, follow the 4WD touring route along the Orara Escarpment in Bindarri National Park , a rugged landscape with dazzling views that winds through untouched eucalypt rainforests and waterfalls.

A family sitting by the Orara Valley Tourist Trail. — Explore the green heart of Coffs.

3. Dorrigo National Park

Enjoy a classic day trip from Coffs to forest bathe in some of the oldest subtropical rainforests in the world at Dorrigo National Park, part of the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests. These million-year-old ecosystems promise rare bird sightings, towering strangler figs, and epic walking tracks and picnic spots. Try the 6.6 km Wonga Walk to experience dreamy Crystal Shower Falls (where you can walk behind the falls) and the Skywalk Lookout, which offers spectacular views of the valley and coast. Then stop in Dorrigo town for a homey lunch. It’s worth noting that a section of the road between Ulong and Dorrigo – which dates to the 1880s – is unsealed, adding to the area’s end-of-the-earth allure but making travel difficult in adverse weather conditions. Alternatively, head to Dorrigo via the delightful township of Bellingen .

Three people standing at the SkyWalk lookout. — Wander the Skywalk.

4. Northern Beaches

For another tranquil expanse of sun, sand and surf breaks, head north to Woolgoolga (Tourism Australia’s Best Mainland Beach for 2025. Taste the coffee and local-produce breakfast at one of several cafes, then spot whales during their migration season along the Woolgoolga Whale Trail to the headland. Emerald Beach offers clear blue waters and another headland walk, perfect for taking in views of South Solitary Island, a dramatically rocky-cliffed island with a historic lighthouse. Red Rock, some 40km north of Coffs and named for its striking coastal rock formations, boasts a gorgeous estuary reserve that’s perfect for languorous days spent picnicking, swimming, fishing, and connecting with the relaxed local pace.

Freshly caught seafood by the beach, with sparkling ocean views. — Enjoy fresh seafood overlooking Woolgoolga Beach.

5. Jetty precinct

You could easily spend a whole day exploring the Jetty precinct – from its foreshores to the marina to Muttonbird Island. Start with fresh fish and chips from local institution Coffs Harbour Fisherman’s Co-op , before browsing the popular Harbourside Markets held every Sunday on the foreshores.

Take a scenic walk along the breakwall to Muttonbird Island , a cultural and ecological treasure with panoramic views and rich Gumbaynggirr heritage. The Giidany Miirlarl Education Space shares the island’s ancient stories, or join a guided moonlight tour to see the seasonal return of the muttonbirds.

Back at the Jetty Strip, find a buzzing mix of cafes, bars and restaurants with cuisines from around the world, open from morning until late. Don’t miss The Jetty Pavilion , a favourite for its unique menu blending modern Australian cuisine with vibrant world flavours.

walk to muttonbird island from coffs harbour — Walk the path where land meets sea and sky.

6. Grafton

Head inland from mid-October to early November to catch Grafton’s jacaranda season, when the town’s streets and parks are covered in purple. Even better, time your trip between 24 October and 2 November to attend the famous Jacaranda Festival, with special food items, performances and more. At any time of year, follow the self-guided Grafton Heritage Trail to discover the town’s historic buildings, landmarks and stories. Or get the blood pumping with a trip along the longest mapped white-water trail in Australia – the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail. Book a tour with Exodus Adventures .

woman walking through jacaranda trees in grafton — Time your Grafton trip to see the jacarandas in full bloom. (Image: @myclarencevalley)

7. Nambucca

Just south of Coffs Harbour sits Nambucca, the ideal town for a relaxed, coastal day trip. Hire a canoe, kayak or boat to explore over 80 kilometres of waterways stretching from the hinterland to the ocean. For those who prefer to stay on dry land (or double up their adventure for the day), stretch your legs along the V-Wall – a scenic coastal walk along the Nambucca River – dotted with boulders painted by the community, sharing messages, art and local stories. Stop along the way to buy Sydney rock oysters direct from local farmers, or try your own hand at fishing. Before heading back to Coffs, refuel on fresh seafood and wood-fired pizzas at Matilda’s in Nambucca .

a boat zooming through Nambucca Heads — Explore Nambucca’s waterways. (Image: Seen Australia)

Visit coffscoast.com and download the Coffs Coast Explorer App for more daytrips and trails.

18 scrumptious cafes in Byron Bay (and beyond)