Every stop to make on a Yamba to Byron Bay road trip

Surf beaches, nostalgic coastal towns and dense tropical wilderness – the road trip from Yamba to Byron Bay has it all.

If you’re visiting Yamba for a lazy beach holiday, it’s worth spending one of its endless sunny days taking a road trip from Yamba to Byron Bay. Traversing the North Coast of NSW will see you dropping into some of the most quintessentially Aussie towns with turquoise blue waters, chowing down on classic hamburgers for your post-swim lunch and winding through rainforests high up in the hinterland. Here’s our guide to the best places to stop on the drive from Yamba to Byron Bay.

Iluka

Yamba to Iluka: 30-40 minutes

Only a little off-route? Sure. Worth it? Absolutely. The ferry from Yamba to Iluka might take 30 minutes (and runs regularly every day of the week), but the drive isn’t too bad – less than an hour will land you in a town where time feels like it stopped in 1975. There’s one row of boutiques and cafes, but if you’re there after 11.30am you absolutely must visit Sedgers Reef Hotel ’s bistro. Inside a ramshackle old coastal pub, the food is top-notch, the outdoor seating is breezy and pet friendly, and the interiors are so Australiana it hurts.

There’s also a particularly memorable experience to be had at Chez Basho Boatshed Cafe , located on Charles Street right off the water, as super authentic Japanese-inspired fare keeps locals smiling. The team introduced a selection of cocktails to the menu in October 2024, so lunch is officially more festive than ever.

Nature lovers can get amongst their preferred poison as the Iluka Bluff Lookout and Iluka Rainforest Walking Track dish up exceptional vistas of the NSW coastline. Following the path to Frazers Reef will also uncover a spectacular hidden beach. Don’t miss any of it during your Yamba to Byron Bay journey.

Evans Head

Iluka to Evans Head: 50 minutes

coffee and breakfast at Stray — Stray serves up coffee and indulgent breakfast plates.

Your next detour along a Yamba to Byron Bay expedition is Evans Head. Busier than Iluka but not as popular as nearby Lennox Head (more on that gem soon) and Yamba, Evans Head has a great surf break (hire a board at Evans Head Surf Shack during summer) and a laid-back feel.

If it’s lunch, punch 14 Oak Street into your Maps and prepare to salivate. Chippa is Evans Heads’ go-to fish-and-chippery and the fruits of its labour are downright delicious. Think all the classics like a Fisherman’s Basket, Chicko Roll and battered local catches, plus burgers and salads tossed with finesse.

Muzza’s Milk Bar is ideal for stocking up on road trip snacks (the milkshakes are also a must-try), or if you skipped past Iluka and need lunch, The Sandpit Cafe is right on the beach and does a good feed. There’s also Stray on Woodburn Street for serious coffee nuts (the barista skills here are top-shelf) and those in the market for homemade sausage and egg muffins before returning to the road.

Lennox Head

Evans Head to Lennox Head: 40 minutes

Made famous when the Hemsworth brothers nabbed gigantic properties to lay the groundwork for ‘Hemsworth Hills’ just outside of town, Lennox Head is a huge hit with surfers who cruise the coast looking for perfect breaks.

As a result of its frothy street cred, the town has plenty to offer tourists including stylish eateries like Shelter and Williams Street , nestled alongside feed-me stalwarts like Fishy Fishy which nails takeaway fish and chips.

fine dining setup at Baraka — Savour the art of fine dining at Baraka.

Fine dining also makes waves around here with Baraka , home to Middle Eastern masterpieces, and Quattro Beachfront Italian mastering flavour-packed dishes and special-occasion ambience.

Meanwhile, the party force is strong over at Chido Cantina , where Mexican-laced mayhem often attracts thick crowds.

Head up to Pat Morton Lookout during your Yamba to Byron Bay getaway to really soak up the region and pick up a handmade gelato from Lennox Gelato and Coffee Co before getting back on the road.

Newrybar

Lennox Head to Newrybar: 15 minutes

From Lennox Head you’ll want to wind into the Byron Bay Hinterland as opposed to following the coast. Additionally, Suffolk Park, right near Crystalbrook Byron, one of the best Byron Bay accommodation picks, is also worth a pit stop, flowing with the same dense rainforest and hippie energy.

Grab a coffee and a pastry from The General Store while you peruse the locally sourced produce, gifts and supplies.

a woman relaxing at Gaia Retreat & Spa — Take in the breathtaking Bundjalung Country hinterland of Byron Bay at Gaia Retreat & Spa.

If you have time (and extra cash) along your Yamba to Byron Bay adventure, book into the nearby Gaia Retreat & Spa . Founded by the late Olivia Newton-John, its peaceful, tranquil surroundings and extensive self-care offerings will help you shed a year’s worth of stress.

Before you continue to your final destination descent, drop into the Newrybar Merchants for some retail therapy. The quaint collective of killer boutiques is a haven for one-of-a-kind homewares, fashion, kids’ gear and accessories.

Bangalow

Newrybar to Bangalow: 10 minutes

Savvy travellers in search of a Byron experience along the Yamba to Byron Bay track without the fuss, zero in on Bangalow. A beautiful, historic country town filled with cafes, restaurants and the region’s signature luxe-boho shops, it’s a winner on every level.

Island Luxe and Rowie speak fluent fashion, while Our Corner Store will see you picking up everything from local produce to handmade mugs and plates.

the pub interior of You Beauty — You Beauty has turned regular pub classics into refined meals. (Image: Kenny Smith)

The restaurant scene overachieves too with You Beauty , slicking up your regular corner pub via ultra-refined dishes and sensational drinks, and Ciao, Mate! , owned by renowned Melbourne chef Nick Stanton and lighting up a restored historical building. BYO stretchy pants for the latter pick especially as seasonal pastas, woodfired pizzas and traditional desserts fulfil universal Italian feasting dreams.

Eyes firmly fixed on the prize of caffeine? Zip straight to Butcher Baker where cafe life is expertly crafted.

Byron Bay

Bangalow to Byron Bay: 15 minutes

Your Yamba to Byron Bay road trip has drawn to a close — but the fun’s only just beginning. If you’re arriving in the evening, head down to The Rails Hotel for a nightcap as there’s often a band playing in the outdoor bar.

If there’s still time for a swim, Wategos Beach (and the glamorous Raes on Wategos dining room, destined for post-swim indulgence) is less busy on a late afternoon. Park further up the hill and walk down as there are usually easier parallel parks along the side of the road than those in the car park.

waterfront views at Raes on Wategos — Raes on Wategos is best for waterfront dining. (Image: Madeleine Johnson/Sean Fennessy)

Keen to sample the newest kids on the block? Hotel Marvell has slam-dunk five-star perfection since its opening at the end of 2023, serving as one of the most luxe accommodation offerings in Byron Bay.

Additionally, it’s home to the Byron Bay Oyster Bay & Seafood Restaurant , which opened in October 2024 and oozes big summer energy — the perfect reward for a road trip well-conquered.

This article was originally written by Melissa Mason with updates by Kristie Lau-Adams.

Discover the magic of a Sydney staycation in summer at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

Sydney City is magical in summer. Warm summer evenings beg to be spent sipping cool cocktails at one of many al fresco and rooftop bars. Ferries and buses are ready to transport travellers to the best nearby beaches for salty days on the sand. National parks and rainforests are waiting to be explored. And the city’s events calendar is packed, from live music to cultural attractions. All elements that call for a Sydney staycation.

Discover where to eat, stay and play for the perfect local getaway.

Where to stay

The Fullerton Hotel Sydney

Amid the bustle of the perfect Sydney staycation, one needs a place to escape to and recharge. Enter, The Fullerton Hotel Sydney . The hotel is an icon in its own right – nestled inside the 151-year-old building that was originally Sydney’s General Post Office, its heritage-listed sandstone walls and Victorian renaissance grandeur have been carefully preserved – providing a rare chance to sleep within Sydney’s history.

Despite its fascinating history, the hotel isn’t short on modern, luxurious comforts. Rooms and suites are available in both the modern high-rise with gorgeous views over the clock tower and lively city below, or inside the historical post office building itself.

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney Heritage Long Suite bathroom — Heritage rooms maintain their old-world style.

Either way, guests can enjoy sophisticated touches, including a deluxe bed and pillow menu, Harman Kardon Bluetooth speakers, a digital concierge, a Vittoria coffee machine and amenities from the Balmain bathroom collection.

The team at this five-star hotel provides excellence and a quality experience for all their guests, while amenities like a gym help with a well-rounded stay. For a peaceful moment with sweeping city views, enter The Fullerton Club Lounge on level 28. This private haven for dining and relaxation is available to any guests staying on the hotel’s club floors and suites.

Add to this a central location in the CBD’s Martin Place, with easy access to Sydney’s top attractions, and convenience meets style.

Where to drink & dine

1. The Bar

the Fullerton Hotel afternoon tea at the bar — Indulge in the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea.

Inside The Fullerton Hotel Sydney’s lobby, The Bar does more than sling a few delicious cocktails (although it certainly does that well). Its brown leather chairs and glass ceiling create the perfect, almost al fresco, setting for the Fullerton Signature Afternoon Tea .

Served daily from 12 to 4 pm, the afternoon tea is a nod to the cherished social occasion it once was during the Victorian Renaissance era. People like to dress up for this afternoon tea, and if you’re lucky, a pianist often sits down at the on-site grand piano, just adding to the elegance.

The afternoon tea is served high tea style, offering reimagined British flavours of the Victorian Renaissance era with a unique blend of Australia’s culinary heritage. A sweet layer offers delights like a Malted Milk Envelope (a milk mousse layered between two biscuits), Bakewell Pudding (a super tasty egg-based pudding), and Apple Charlotte.

On the savoury layer, expect finger sandwiches with fillings like cucumber, egg and smoked salmon. While classic pinwheels and stuffed eggs almost make the menu. And, of course, all finished off with traditional scones served with cream and mixed berry jam.

Can’t fit in a whole afternoon tea? Be sure to at least order a slice of the 32-layered chocolate cake, a decadent mix of dark chocolate crémeux, fresh whipped cream, and Valrhona Azélia chocolate sauce. ⁣

2. The Place

the Fullerton Hotel the place dining — Dine in the stunning GPO atrium.

On level one of The Fullerton Hotel Sydney lives The Place – the hotel’s restaurant, in an atrium overlooking the former GPO. Here, dine on Modern Australian cuisine – think fresh, local seafood and a Riverina steak sandwich – along with a touch of Singaporean signature dishes, like Thai-style green curry or chicken satay. All in the shadow of the GPO clock tower, enjoying the GPO atrium’s natural light.

3. Local gelato

Couple enjoying ice-creams at First Fleet Park, The Rocks — Enjoy ice cream in the sunshine. (Image: Destination NSW)

What is summer without ice cream and/or gelato? Luckily, there are plenty of options just a short walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, whether you’re craving a midday pick-me-up or an after-sun treat.

What to do/see

1. GPO Heritage Tour

the Fullerton Hotel Sydney lobby — Be awed by the building’s history.

Want to know more about the building you’re staying in? The Fullerton Hotel Sydney offers a complimentary 90-minute GPO Heritage Tour. Follow a knowledgeable tour guide to discover the stories, tales and legends of the former Sydney General Post Office building.

From the iconic clock tower (completed in 1891) to the black-and-white tiled staircase at 1 Martin Place, which was once the main entrance to the GPO and today serves as a prominent feature of the building to the 24 stone faces (mascarons) on the Martin Place side of the building. Part of the 1880s-era facade (designed by architect James Barnet), each represents different states, countries and continents.

2. Circular Quay

aerial of circular quay sydney — Catch a ferry from Circular Quay. (Image: Destination NSW)

An easy walk or light rail ride away from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, lies the bustling Circular Quay. Here, you can sit for a drink and nibbles at the Opera Bar, or head into the iconic house itself for a show. It’s also a major ferry port, becoming your gateway to Sydney’s beaches, Luna Park and even Sydney Zoo.

3. Royal Botanic Gardens

view of circular quay from Sydney's Royal Botanic Garden — Wander through Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. (Image: Destination NSW)

Just beyond Circular Quay, discover Sydney’s Royal Botanic Garden. Wander through this 30-hectare, heritage-listed, botanical garden – exploring its differing sections, from Australian native botanicals to garden beds of vibrant flowers to towering groves of international trees.

It’s also the perfect place for a picnic, so pick up supplies before you come and enjoy a spot on the grassy meadow looking out into the harbour.

4. Theatre Royal

Just a one-minute walk from The Fullerton Hotel Sydney, take in a show at Theatre Royal. Built in 1976, the theatre has been offering a broad range of entertainment since the 1990s. Expect a show roster that ranges from the classics (like Cats) to the modern) like Pretty Woman: The Musical).

Start planning a summer stay in Sydney worth remembering at fullertonhotels.com/fullerton-hotel-sydney.