When I first dreamt of my honeymoon, I visualised an adventurous world trip covering plenty of countries and ticking off tonnes of bucket list items. Alas, with coronavirus, it was not meant to be. Then we tried to book a trip to Tasmania, hoping instead for an interstate adventure. But with a Christmas outbreak in our state, that too was not meant to be.

But as they say, third time's a charm! We headed to blissful Byron Bay for our honeymoon and got lucky that the beautiful Elements of Byron Bay resort was somehow available at such short notice. Given the influx of local Australian travel this year, I still am surprised we managed to secure a booking. Although, not the trip I had originally hoped for, our little getaway in this beautiful coastal town was the perfect way to unwind after a hectic 12 months. 

Below is everything we got upto!

MUST DO WHEN IN BYRON

Sunrise at the Byron Bay Lighthouse - If there is one thing you must do in Byron, its catching the sunrise at the Lighthouse. Yes a sunset is nice but sunrise at the most easterly point of mainland Australia? Trust me, it's worth it! You can walk it or take the car straight to the lighthouse carpark. Both are fine options but if taking the car, make sure to get there early as the parking gets full. And do not forget snacks!

WHERE TO STAY

Elements of Byron - If you want to do Luxury in Byron, then nothing can beat Elements of Byron. The resort specialises in individual villas, with some connected to the beach, which is where we caught this beautiful sunset. Start your day with a dip in the lagoon pool and some brekky from the kiosk or end your evening with a relaxing dip in the heated spa followed by pizzas by the poolside firepit. If the pool is not your thing then take a walk at the connected Belongil beach followed by drinks and pizza by the beach or a more leisurely dinner at the Azure Bar and Grill. 

Other Areas to Explore in Byron

Crystal castle - With crystals being all the rage now and COVID having us all down and out, the peace and serenity in this place is wonderful to experience. Reserve a couple of hours to walk around in peace and then grab some lunch at their Lotus Cafe. I walked away feeling very recharged, and with a beautiful new citrine crystal cluster in my hand.

 

Nimbin - There are several cute towns just 15 mins from Byron but this town about 1 hour away is in a league of its own. If you think Byron is a hippy town then wait till you see Nimbin. Be ready to be bombarded by Bob Marley posters, rainbow coloured shops, peace signs and slogans like "overgrow the government". You'll find all sorts of hemp products from hemp clothes to hats to ice cream. It's a whole lot of strange but packed into a very short street. There isn't exactly much to do but the fact that such a town exists in Australia and all the hemp shops share the street with the police station is an experience in itself. Besides, it'll make you curious and get you googling the fascinating history of this town. On a side note, Nimbin is also regarded as the Anti-Vaxx capital of Australia... so make of that what you will.

Catch a sunset - Byron is all about beaches and relaxing so don't forget to catch one to end a tiring day of shopping. The colourful skies at twilight are the perfect backdrop to an evening stroll. We caught ours at the Main Beach.