January in Byron Bay is a time of renewal and reflection. With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season behind us, the region embraces its signature laid-back vibes, making it the perfect escape to reset and recharge.
Whether you’re seeking to start the year with soulful intentions, indulgent relaxation, or a mix of adventure and discovery, Byron Bay has it all. Here’s your guide to the best experiences at Elements of Byron and beyond this January:
January is ideal for setting new intentions, and Byron Bay offers countless ways to nurture your body, mind, and spirit.
Begin your mornings with Elements of Byron’s First Light Club, where our resident yogi leads daily sunrise yoga sessions on Belongil Beach. Let the gentle sound of the waves guide your practice as you release tension, centre your mind, and step into the day with renewed energy.
For a more dynamic approach, venture to the Habitat precinct on Bayshore Drive. Here, you’ll find:
For a truly holistic approach to wellness, explore the Starlight Festival in nearby Bangalow. Running in early January at the historic A&I Hall, this vibrant event celebrates conscious living with meditation workshops, sound healing, yoga sessions, and stalls offering healthy food and artisanal goods. It’s a serene way to expand your wellness journey while immersing yourself in the region’s creative spirit.
No Australian summer holiday is complete without the magic of water. Whether it’s the blissful joy of a poolside retreat or the soul-refreshing embrace of the ocean, Elements of Byron is a haven for aquatic adventures just steps from your villa.
At the heart of the resort, the Central Lagoon Pool offers a temperature-controlled expanse of crystal-clear water surrounded by lounges and hanging beds, with easy access to Breeze Café for all-day poolside indulgence. For couples, the Adults Exclusive Pool provides a serene escape with private cabanas, luxurious lounges, and the swim-up Summer Salt Bar, perfect for sipping cocktails in the summer sun.
A short stroll away lies the iconic Belongil Beach, a 2.5km stretch of pristine sands ideal for ocean swims and long beach walks. Discover The Wreck, a hotspot for surfers, and marvel at the vibrant sea birds thriving near the Belongil Estuary.
For food lovers and adventurers alike, Byron Bay is a culinary paradise and the perfect place to explore new flavours this January.
On-resort, Azure Bar and Grill offers a dining experience that celebrates the essence of Byron Bay. From indulgent buffet breakfasts on the terrace to intimate dinners in the sophisticated Dining Room, Executive Chef Ebony Baker—recently named Chef of the Year at the National AHA Awards—crafts dishes that honour the natural beauty of each ingredient. Many are foraged on-site or feature native Australian produce, creating a flavourful connection to the region.
For those eager to explore Byron’s vibrant dining scene, Bar Heather on Jonson Street is a must-visit. This Parisian-inspired restaurant and bar focuses on natural wines paired with a snack-heavy, wine-friendly menu. With a strong emphasis on local produce, the dishes are crafted in close coordination with the finest organic suppliers from the Northern Rivers region, making it a standout culinary experience.
Craving southeast Asian flavours? Head to Bang Bang, where classic dishes are served with a modern Byron twist. For a plant-based culinary adventure, No Bones in Byron Village offers vibrant, innovative dishes sure to impress.
Wherever you dine, January in Byron Bay promises a feast for the senses.
For a fuller Food Lovers’ Guide to Byron, check out our blog on Restaurants and Bars in Byron.
Byron Bay is anything but ordinary, and its bar scene reflects its unique blend of flamboyance, quirkiness, and sophistication. What better way to celebrate a holiday and the start of a new year than with a cocktail tour of this buzzing coastal town?
Start your evening at Azure Bar and Grill, where cocktails are served with the tranquil backdrop of the Central Lagoon Pool. Relax by the fire pit as the cocktail shaker sings and the warm glow lulls you into ultimate relaxation—try one of their signature creations or explore their award-winning wine list.
Next, head to The Mez Club on Lawson Street. Upstairs, you’ll find The Souk, a stunning cocktail bar perfect for an aperitif, post-dinner drink, or a stylish meet-up with friends and family. The chic atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails make it an essential Byron Bay experience.
Another must-visit is the iconic Balcony Bar & Oyster Co., a favourite among locals and visitors alike. Overlooking bustling Byron streets, this elegant spot is perfect for savouring a Moscow Mule, Manhattan, or classic Margarita while soaking up the town’s lively atmosphere.
Byron Bay’s bar scene is a cocktail lover’s dream and the perfect excuse to sip your way through this vibrant destination.
There is incredible power in trying new things. It can test our curiosity, teach us new things about ourselves and create new hobbies and passions. Byron Bay is a destination of generous artisans, willing to share their craft through workshops and lessons. What do you want to try first?
Ride your first wave in one of the world’s most famous surf destinations under the expert tutelage of professional surf schools like Let’s Go Surfing or Soul Surf School.
Combine fine wines with fine art at the Art and Wine Co. Try your hand at ceramics, painting landscapes, animal portraits or jewellery making. Professional teachers enlighten you with art techniques and skills that will bring out the artist in everyone.
Or try your hand at creating personalised recycled paper featuring dyes or pressed flowers. Susan and the tutors at Born in Paper will help you make stunning paper creations and even hand bind them into a journal – a beautiful souvenir or hand-made journal for the year ahead.
Want more inspiration for things to do in Byron Bay? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Byron Bay.
