Where to whale-watch and sightsee in Byron Bay

There are some experiences in life that are so magical, they border on life-changing. Witnessing whales in the wild on their annual migration up and down the Australian coast is one of those experiences.

Out of the Blue Adventures, operating from Ballina wharf, offers small-scale whale-watching tours on a vessel that provides uninterrupted views. The small size of the vessel offers punters the chance to get up close and personal with these majestic giants of the sea, travelling up to Australia’s most easterly point, Cape Byron at Byron Bay.

During whale season, it’s not uncommon to see tens of whales right next to the boat — playing, courting, breaching, slapping the water — and just generally having a whale of a time.

Byron Bay is one of NSW’s most popular holiday playgrounds, and for good reason. The Cape Byron Lighthouse is one of the town’s major attractions. It draws crowds to see the lighthouse, the incredible views out onto the ocean, as well as the picturesque beaches below. Owned and run by NSW National Parks, visitors can also join guided tours and enter the inner sanctum of one of the country’s most famous lighthouses.

Byron Bay is full of delicious tucker, but few venues boast such great food and views as the The Pass Café. Nestled amongst Littoral Rainforest, and overlooking one of the town’s most famous surf breaks, the café specialises in vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free foods, while still offering classic café fare like wagyu beef burgers.