Looking for things to do in Byron Bay in August? Winter is one of the best times to visit Byron. Take a hike in the hinterland and enjoy a multitude of arts and cultural festivals, uncrowded beaches and great food.
Byron has some of Australia’s most iconic beaches, where ocean lovers can surf or paddle in Byron’s ideal winter swell and the water’s warm all year round!
Discover our Top 5 things to do in Byron Bay for August.
1) Byron Writers Festival
11 to 13 August 2023
This year, held in Bangalow, one of Byron’s quaintest hinterland villages, the Byron Writers Festival is the ultimate event for word lovers as over 140 writers and thinkers come together in the Byron region’s winter sun. Join some of the best international and Australian story creators, risk takers and idea makers for a weekend of words.
This annual three-day event will stimulate your mind and inspire your creativity while you enjoy the relaxed environment Byron is famous for.
Spend time among some of the world’s greatest authors in the most perfect destination possible at the Byron Writers Festival.
2) Bangalow Music Festival
17 – 20 August 2023
The charming hinterland village of Bangalow will be alive with the sound of music from 17 to 20 August around this time every year with thanks to the Bangalow Chamber Music Festival.
A major annual event in the Australian arts calendar, world-class chamber musicians and classical solo artists gather in the Byron Shire to share their musical talents.
While you’re in Bangalow, make sure you explore some of the hidden food gems. If you’re after something local, organic and utterly delicious, grab a seat in Woods’s courtyard, just across the road from the A&I Hall. It’s a local favourite – deservedly so!
If you can’t make this festival and you’re in town the next Sunday (the fourth Sunday of the month)make time for Bangalow market. You’ll be in for a real cultural experience – it’s the best place to buy local arts and crafts and taste some of the best regional fare.
3) North Coast Mud Trail
19 and 20 August 2023
The North Coast Mud Trail combines two passions: art and stunning day trip drives!
A celebration of functional ceramic art, the trail sees ceramicists open their studios for visitors to see them at work, discuss their processes and discover their inspiration from 19 to 20 August.
Following the Trail map takes you through some of the region’s most scenic locations – you’ll find yourself in the wooded hills of Mullumbimby, through Possum Creek and west of Bangalow to Booyong.
You’ll find ceramics with clean contemporary lines, tableware derived from Japanese traditions, sculptural rustic elements – and everything in between. Each artist offers the chance to pick up a unique, handcrafted artwork that can become part of your everyday rituals at home.
4) Winter Surf in Byron
Throughout August
Surf conditions in Byron Bay are consistently good all year round and in August you’ll have more room in the waves as the summer crowds disperse. The water temperature sits at a pleasant 21.5ºC and the swell is at its best.
Winter in Byron is a haven of blue skies and beaches to suit all surf levels. Learning to surf and catching the best breaks is all on offer within a short driving distance of Elements of Byron.
With a variety of beach breaks and point breaks to choose from, you’ll find waves that are perfect for beginners to advanced surfers, and everything in between.
Byron Bay – it’s not called a surfer’s haven for nothing!
5) Revitalise With A Massage at Osprey Spa
Throughout August
As the spring blossoms begin to emerge, August is an opportunity to rebalance and rejuvenate the mind, body and soul with a customised Osprey Spa treatment.
After a slow stroll to the lighthouse or a lazy brunch in Byron, there are plenty more things to do in Byron Bay in August, such as relaxing in your room with a long bubble-bath soak or making time for a massage. Osprey has a range of revitalising treatments on offer.
Choose from aromatherapy, hot stone or our Osprey signature massages that includes pressure point release, lymphatic drainage and Gaia beauty balm.
Treat yourself to the most luxurious and relaxing experience in Byron this winter and step into spring with a little Byron glow.
Want more inspiration for things to do in Byron Bay in August? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Byron Bay.