Palm Valley

Not far from Byron Bay's iconic lighthouse, Palm Valley or The Pass,' as locals call it is a terrific base for exploring nearby attractions. Delicious, seasonal meals can be found at The Pass Caf, or take advantage of the large grassy picnic areas by bringing your own packed lunch and meat for the barbecues. Picnic tables overlook The Pass beach, popular for its surf and a great place to spend afternoons swimming or lying on the sand. An even better view of the surrounding area can be found nearby at Fishermans lookout.

If you enjoy walking and birdwatching, you'll want to check out a short wheelchair-accessible track adjacent to the parking area, which meanders through lush coastal palm rainforest. A longer walk will lead you up over the hill to Wategos Beach, and all the way to the stunning Cape Byron Lighthouse. If you're looking to work up a sweat and get that heart pumping without leaving the Palm Valley area though, you can burn some extra calories at the outdoor gym, offering a selection of fitness equipment.

With its variety of offerings, Palm Valley can be a busy spot on summer weekends when the...