Written by Callum Taylor, Camille Laurent, Marika Maslanka
23/08/2025
Martynas Linge, Pexels
Byron Bay's drinking scene offers a dynamic blend of laid-back beachside vibes, sophisticated cocktail experiences, and bustling live music venues that cater to its diverse visitors.
Entertainment and Music:
Byron Bay's entertainment scene blends its relaxed coastal charm with a vibrant live music culture, catering to diverse tastes from laid-back melodies to energetic DJ sets.
Live music is a central feature of Byron Bay's nightlife, with venues offering performances nightly. The Railway Friendly Bar, commonly known as 'The Rails,' hosts free live music covering various genres in its open-air beer garden every evening. Additionally, the iconic Beach Hotel, situated by the ocean, provides a lively atmosphere with daily live acts and DJs, appealing to both locals and visitors.
1. The Beach Hotel
Type: Pub, Live Music Venue
I find The Beach Hotel offers an quintessential Byron Bay experience with its sprawling beer garden and direct views of Main Beach. It is an ideal spot for enjoying a sundowner, featuring live music daily that transitions from mellow tunes to energetic beats as the evening progresses. The atmosphere is vibrant, appealing to a diverse crowd looking for both relaxed beachside drinks and a lively night out.
Getting There: Located directly on Main Beach, it is walking distance from most accommodations in central Byron Bay.
2. Balcony Bar & Oyster Co.
Type: Bar, Restaurant
Perched above the bustling Lawson and Jonson streets, this venue provides an excellent vantage point for people-watching while enjoying sophisticated cocktails and a fresh seafood menu, particularly known for its oysters. The ambiance is relaxed yet refined, embodying a casual beach chic style.
Getting There: Situated in the heart of Byron Bay, it is easily reachable on foot from the main town center.
3. Moonlight Hibachi Grill & Wine Bar
Type: Wine Bar, Japanese Grill
Tucked away on Bay Lane, Moonlight offers a striking contrast to Byron's typical sunny aesthetic with its moody, monochromatic, and intimate interiors. This venue specializes in modern Japanese bar bites, a curated selection of biodynamic wines, sake, and unique cocktails, providing a sophisticated experience.
Getting There: Located on Bay Lane in central Byron Bay, it is within walking distance of the main area.
4. The Rails (Railway Friendly Bar)
Type: Pub, Live Music Venue
The Rails is an iconic Byron Bay institution, offering a genuinely laid-back atmosphere with a spacious open-air beer garden. It is famous for hosting free live music every night, showcasing a wide range of local and touring bands playing everything from roots to rock, making it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors seeking an authentic, unpretentious Byron experience.
Getting There: Located on Jonson Street, just one street back from the main road, making it walking distance from the town center.
5. Treehouse on Belongil
Type: Beachside Restaurant, Bar, Live Music Venue
Just a short stroll along the sand to Belongil Beach, Treehouse embodies a quintessentially Byron experience with its relaxed, tropical boho vibes. Here, guests can settle under the palm trees, enjoy wood-fired pizzas, creative cocktails, local beers, and consistent live music. It offers a laid-back, community-focused ambiance.
Getting There: An easy walk along the sand to Belongil Beach from the north end of Byron Bay town center (approximately 15-20 minutes). Taxis or ride-shares are also readily available, costing around AUD 10-15 from the town center.
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