Byron Bay. Your teenage and twenties carefree self loved Australia’s most famous beach town - home of relaxed vibes and just the right juxtaposition of hippie ambience and surf culture. The great news is it’s possible for the new, child-doting Mother Earth you to enjoy a Byron Bay adventure along with the whole family. Swap the tanning oil for 50+ sunscreen, the odd surf break for a nap break and settle on a sunset cocktail or two in lieu of all-night hedonism as you soak up the best of Byron Bay for families. These kid-friendly activities make superb experiences so the whole family can make the most of the laidback charm and natural beauty Byron Bay has to offer.

Scoping the rockpools. (Image: Jolee Wakefield)

Toddlers: Spot a starfish or two

Just 10 minutes from Byron Bay township will land you at the rockpools at Broken Head. When the conditions are right, the pools are teeming with marine life like starfish waiting for your tiny explorer to find. Older kids will enjoy snorkelling and diving at Julian Rocks Marine Reserve.

4 years and over: Adventure to Australia’s most easterly point

The walking track up the rugged headland towards Cape Byron Lighthouse makes for healthy, fun times for the whole family. Expect panoramic ocean and hinterland views off Australia’s most eastern point. Tips: Bring change for the old-school binocular stations. Park halfway up the hill to cater for smaller trekkers.

The view from the track to the Cape Byron Lighthouse is worth the walk. (Image: Shutterstock)

7 years and over: Catch a first wave

Belongil, Main, Clarke’s  – where better to catch a first wave than off a famous Byron Bay break? There are just as many surf schools as there are beaches with waves to make sure kids and families are in safe hands. Tips: Save pennies on equipment. Most schools also hire out wetsuits and rashies.

More holiday ideas for families.

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Look for dolphins, turtles and more from your kayak. (Image: Go Sea Kayak Byron Bay)

9 years and over: Say g’day to dolphins

Take a kayak tour around Cape Byron and if you’re lucky, your kids will be sharing the dreamy view with bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles and even humpback whales (in the distance). Tips: Dolphin pods are regularly spotted off the beach. Some companies offer river trips if the ocean is rough, plus there are boat tours available to better cater for youngsters and grandparents.

All ages: A class act

Byron Bay has cottoned on to ageing hippies and their offspring. If the kids are not keen on surfing there are plenty of other classes on offer for all ages, like mountain bike riding, drum circles, yoga and art classes and even circus theatrics (including for under-fives). Tip: Ask your hotel or the Tourist Information Centre in town about available classes.

Music, food trucks and the chance to get muddy is a winning combo for youngsters at Byron Bay Bluesfest. (Image: Natalie Grono)

All ages: A festival first

Introduce young rockers to the Dylans, Harpers, Costellos, Frantis and Rudds of the world at the Byron Bay Bluesfest. Blues and roots performers congregate at Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm near Byron over the Easter weekend for a family-friendly festival with an alcohol-free campsite and easy transfers between the site and Byron Bay town. Tips: Each day before lunch, the Boomerang kids program kicks off and features dance circles, craft workshops and a handy breastfeeding and nappy-changing area.

All ages: Sunset treats

Busy days and early nights – the grassy point overlooking Main Beach is the perfect spot to bring takeaway fish and chips, watch the little ones play in the park, and soak up the Byron Bay lifestyle. Then take a well-earned family stroll on the beach to end a perfect day. Tips: Bring mozzie repellent. Note: sometimes the best dinner deals are found beyond the main tourist strip.

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Visit your local Flight Centre store or call 131 600 for more advice and the latest deals on travelling to Byron Bay.

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