Tigmi Guide to Byron Bay

 

Sun-kissed shores and emerald hinterlands, Byron Bay offers more than postcard perfection.

Nestled at Australia’s easternmost point, it has long been a haven for creatives, hippies, surfers, and wellness enthusiasts, a melting pot of creativity and inspiration. It was also here that a seed took root for Tigmi's founders Danielle and Jules, leading to the creation of Tigmi. “Byron is not only just a location but a canvas of endless inspiration."

Forget the tourist traps; in our guide to Byron, we've chosen to highlight the work of some of our favourite creatives, local haunts, unique places to stay and explore, and hidden treasures where you can experience the natural beauty enveloping this stunning region. We encourage you to explore the bohemia beyond the beach and venture into the Hinterland towns that surround, this is where you'll find some of Byron Bay’s best-kept local secrets.

Whether you are planning a trip to Byron soon or simply have it on your bucket list—you should probably bookmark this!

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Shop

For Artists Only

Born out of a love for creativity and expression, it's been a few years since For Artist's Only opened shop in Byron at HABITAT. A curated collection of unique and high-end fashion labels & accessories, it has some of our favourite locally grown labels, (BASSIKE, Commas, Matteau) and global designers (Isabel Marant, Prozenza Schouler) under their roof... because not all of us like to wear linen 24/7. 

St. Agni

Known first for their covetable footwear, Byron Bay founded and based label ST. AGNI is where you will find the perfect pair of slides to suit the relaxed Byron lifestyle and an enviable wardrobe to match. Laid-lack yet luxe label St Agni opened their beautiful studio in the arts and industrial estate. Situated within their own precinct in which their retail concept store, luxury Apartamento stay, and are neighboured by friends at Yeah Nice (gallery is currently on sabbatical, returning in 2025) & Tigmi team lunch favourite, TONES, have joined them. Till recently it was also home of the local florists we work with at Braer, who have just opened their lovely new studio close-by. In addition to flowers they also sell beautiful floral-centric vessels and objects, remaining true to their ethos that heralds the beauty of nature at its core. 

 

 

Our Corner Store 

Influenced by Scandinavian design and the Australia’s coastal aesthetic, it’s easy to get lost in the shelves of Our Corner Store's beautiful natural linens, timbers, and natural tones and textures. For a quick snack on the run Red Ginger is right next door and sell Asian produce and the best dumplings in Byron, with complimentary green tea. 

The Bookroom  

There are hours to be lost browsing the shelves of The Book Room for the ideal holiday read. There’s nothing quite like the smell of freshly printed books either, add to that the scent of coffee beans from the small coffee stand right out front and you have the right ingredients for a morning well spent.   

Deiji Studios

We were quick adopters of Byron Bay brand Deiji Studios. Admittedly, there were a couple of years when their pyjama sets were the unspoken uniform of choice by Tigmi team members. Known internationally for their exquisite collection of womenswear, loungewear and bedding, Deiji has gained recognition for their sustainable craftsmanship, and have seen the Byron aesthetic embraced all over the world. We were so happy to see them open their first flagship in the shire (located within the uber-chic Jonson Lane precinct) & they are still a favourite amongst the team.   

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Eat & Drink

 

Doma 

A standalone cafe set far in the Hinterland of Federal, the drive to Doma is breathtaking and arriving there feels like you’ve happened upon a hidden gem — although, it’s not so hidden anymore due to word of mouth. Enter the white pebbled courtyard shaded with umbrella’s and palm trees to find a cream coloured Queenslander where the kitchen sits, and fresh sushi cones and matcha lattes are passed over the counter. Their hybrid menu of Japanese cuisine with an Australian twist is a complete stand out and well worth the drive. They’re only open for breakfast and lunch, so be sure to get there before 2.30pm. 

Light Years at Jonson Lane

First established in 2017 in Byron Bay, Light Years is a restaurant that was created from a desire to bring a fun, modern Asian dining experience to the East Coast. This new Jonson Lane iteration of the venue showcases delicious share-style cuisine, inventive cocktails, and the warm hospitality that is synonymous with them. Designed by the collaborative vision of our friend, local designer Sarah Ellison and Studio Plenty, the venue departs from Light Years' iconic tropical aesthetic, embracing a more sophisticated tonal palette. It is headed by Chef Robbie Oijvall, renowned for his daring, colourful and flavourful food.

Bar Heather at Jonson Lane

Created by the team behind Luna Wine Store (one of the best wine library’s in the area) Bar Heather brings Parisian-inspired ambiance with a distinct emphasis on natural wines, located at the heart of the Jonson Street precinct. The restaurant and bar has been curated by Chef Ollie Wong-Hee, formerly of Ester, Sixpenny, and Franklin, who has drawn inspiration from his past restaurant experience with a strong focus on local produce sourced in tight coordination from the best organic suppliers the Northern Rivers has to offer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Frida's Field

Just 10 mins out of Bangalow, Frida's Field is a 120 acre farm and restaurant, with an award-winning chef at its helm. Celebrating the seasons, their ecological farming practices truly create a 'farm-to-table' experience like no other. With a long-table-style lunch on offer every Friday, Saturday and Sunday make sure you book in as soon as your travel plans are set, as this is a favourite of the locals too.

The Hut 

Inspired by the pleasure of eating together, The Hut is Mediterranean dining set in the Byron Bay hinterland. Previously the venue was the historic Possum Creek school that closed in 1963, while although it has been given a contemporary upgrade, the bones of the building is a cheerful reminder of this history.

Wandana

Mullumbimby's Wandana brewery might be the first reason you decide to visit the Mullumbimby Industrial area - but after going once, it likely won't be your last. With an undisrupted outlook to Mt. Chincogan - watching the sunset transpire in to dusk over the valley is one of the most beautiful places you could enjoy a paddle of craft beer - that has had classical music played to it as it fermented!

The Eltham 

Nestled in the picturesque Byron Hinterland, The Eltham Hotel stands proudly as a beautifully restored 120-year-old pub with a rich history. Well worth the drive out, The Eltham has great live music, a delicious and modern take on pub grub and a diverse selection of regional beers and wines. A great place to take up for the afternoon. 

Ciao Mate! 

Located in Bangalow, Ciao Mate! has been serving wood-fired pizza, homemade pasta and side plates alongside a mix of Australian and Italian natural wines and beer to the people for the past 3 years. With a changing specials menu and delicious cocktails, this is a great place for an evening catch up with friends in a relaxed atmosphere. Check out its charming little brother for a drink next door, paying homage to the corner pub - aptly named You Beauty! 

Bistro Livi

Located within Murwillumbah's Art Precinct, Bistro Livi stands as a petite neighbourhood restaurant that is a favourite local haunt. The modern interiors create an atmosphere that transports you anywhere in the world, which is supported by their world-class wait team. Specialising in quality produce sourced from the Northern Rivers region, Bistro Livi presents a concise and delicious menu that works seamlessly with their wine list.

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Sleep

 

Rae’s 

A little bit Slim Aarons, a little bit Mediterranean, Rae’s is truly is an escape within an escape. With a luxuriously tropical and photogenic facade, set within its idyllic Wategos location, it has long-been a Byron Bay icon for good reason. Rae's is a must visit, even if it’s just for a lobster roll, a massage or a cocktail. 

The Sunseeker 

A place where modernity and nostalgia are intertwined, The Sunseeker is the revival of a tired 1980’s motel, transformed in to a bright & breezy haven for those that seek an unforgettable stay in our beachside town.

The Bower 

A series of stunningly decorated beach houses, The Bower combines the barefoot elegance of Byron Bay with the effortless chic of city style boutique accommodation. Their relaxing, design-led spaces are self contained, so you can meander through the day in complete privacy and at your own pace. This is made all the more appealing by their luxuriously picturesque circular pool where you can receive pool-side service between dips. 

 

 

 

The Sails Motel 

This little slice of 60's California is a stone's throw from Byron in the lazy coastal town of Brunswick Heads. The Sails Motel didn’t intend for a life of glamour or Instagram-readiness, but it manages to pull off both without the pretension. Using solar for energy, fair trade and eco-friendly amenities, they also keep holistic wellbeing at the front of mind, but they know how to have fun too, encouraging poolside and room service from their neighbour local bar and pizzeria Saint Marie's. 

Elements Of Byron

Elements has to be the quintessential place to rest your head in Byron Bay. Backing on to Belongil Beach, you can enjoy the best of both worlds - being close to the bustle of town that is only a short solar powered train ride away, and removed enough to enjoy the space and truly reset in to holiday mode. Whether you've travelled up for a romantic escape (hello private villas & adults only pool) or you're enjoying a break with all the family the Elements experience is tailor-made to suit your needs. 

Sun Ranch

Saddle up for Byron Bay's newest retreat, Sun Ranch, an expansive 55-acre haven in the hinterland, embodying the laid-back chic of '70s Californian ranch houses. We love their curated interiors, inviting gathering spaces, and innovative culinary experiences. Upon arrival, guests are greeted with a refreshing salty margarita or cold beer. Mornings unfold with the aroma of local coffee and a warm welcome. The day's activities offer a diverse range, from yoga and swimming to surfing, horse riding or unwinding in the sauna.

 

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Retreat 

COMMA

There is a little tucked away corner of the Byron industrial estate that features an unmissable holistic oasis. Of course this oasis we speak of is COMMA Byron, a re-imagined massage experience which is an "ode to conscious minimalism, warm neutrals, pacifying low light and baptism by oiled up limbs." Pick from their delicious massage menu and leave floating on a cloud. Close to Comma you could easily fill up an entire morning by grabbing an expertly great coffee at Allpress, a life changing yoga classes at Creature Yoga or a retail fix at East Coast General. 

Little Company 

Focused on holistic skin education, Little Company was founded on the philosophy of treating skin as a living organ, offering care by way of meditative and nourishing therapies that are guided by this philosophy. Experience a transforming 20-minute LED light therapy while you immerse yourself in guided meditation, this is the perfect space to recharge between meetings, lunch breaks or before events. Spending time here is guaranteed to have you glowing from the inside out. 

The Banya

Indulge in an immersive social, bathing, and dining experience at The Banya, a modern twist on the traditional European bathhouse that is nestled in the heart of Mullumbimby. Built within the sun-baked bricks of a historical 1920's bank, the Bathhouse offers a rejuvenating escape with a lap pool, mineral pools, a wood-fired sauna, steam room, cold plunge, and five massage treatment rooms. Beyond the wellness experience, guests are invited to linger for a long lunch or drinks with friends, enjoying the on-site bar and dining that seamlessly blend casual refinement with small share plates and nutritious staples. From wine and cocktails to health elixirs, every element is designed to enhance the overall bathhouse experience.

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Experience 

 

Sourdough Weekends at Newrybar Villiage

Located in the hinterland, Newrybar Village is a quaint historical village that was distinctly put on the map by well-known Harvest Restaurant. On the weekend, their deli comes alive with pastries and sourdough galore, made in their historical bakery, available till sold out - which means you have to get in quickly! Newrybar is also home to one of Tigmi's first retail concepts, the Newrybar Merchants, who to this day, sell a beautiful selection of homewares and gifts.

Bathe under Killen Falls 

A ten-minute drive from Newrybar Village and a five-minute scale down a natural cobblestone path you’ll find a large swimming hole surrounded by mossy outcrops, palms and lush rainforest. A large cave sits at the end of the watering hole with a ten-metre waterfall spilling over the roof of the cave into Emigrant Creek. A morning or a whole day can easily be passed swimming up to sit in the cave behind the waterfall and laying out a picnic under the ancient fig trees. 

Explore Bundjalung Country with Delta Kay

Jingi Walla is how we say welcome in Bundjalung Country. Embark on a profound cultural journey through Cape Byron, Bangalow and Broken Head. Guided by Delta Kay (Aunty Delta as she’s fondly known by the locals) a passionate Bundjalung woman, these tours offer insights into Aboriginal existence before colonisation and the continued preservation of the land. Delta shares the impact of settlement and displacement on her people, narrating her family's journey negotiating Native Title. Guests learn Bundjalung, discover local bush tucker, natural medicine, and gain knowledge about tools, weapons, and artefacts. The experience concludes tasting of bush tucker foods, accompanied by a comforting cup of bush tea and a biscuit, providing a rich and immersive encounter with Bundjalung culture.

Lazy mornings at Brunswick Heads 

Not far from the free spirited hinterland community of Mullumbimby, Brunswick Heads has a vibe of its own, marked by its location on a quaint harbour and the resulting sound of gulls, the salty breeze and beach house architecture. The town lends itself well to a slow paced stroll, particularly on a Sunday, while stopping for ice cream, fish & chips or beer at the 'Bruns Pub' along the way.

Ride off in to the sunset  

If you've ever dreamed of riding a horse off in to the sunset, Zephyr Horses can make that dream become a reality. This unique coastal horse ranch will take you along a forest trail before ending your tour on beautiful Belongil Beach just in time to see the sun go down, or for the early birds book in for a session at sunrise instead. 

Brookies Gin Tour

Cape Byron Distillery the home of Brookies Gin is the perfect example of utilising the natural world to create something distinctly unique. On one side of this distillery are scores of macadamia trees, and on the other is an abundant sub-tropical rainforest. Creating botanically infused gin with 26 native ingredients like aniseed, lemon-myrtle, Davidson plums, finger limes - Brookies Gin is distilled with the Macadamia's from their farm, giving the gin a smooth and buttery mouth-feel. Start your visit with a garnished gin in hand, then take a tour through the rainforest and learn about how they combine native flavours to create their award winning gin. 

 

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Photography

Tigmi's Guide to Paris