North to Byron Bay

For those going north from Sydney, Byron Bay is close enough to Queensland's Gold Coast to be considered a northern New South Wales winter — and warmer — destination.

It has its own unique charm, both by the water and in the hinterland where a Nature-based alternative lifestyle flourishes in parts.

In late 2005, Byron Bay received a bucketful of bad publicity when Australian television fisherman and Australian Rules commentator Rex Hunt said he and his son, and their partners, were set upon by a group of youths on Byron Bay's main street. Hunt was quoted as saying attacks on tourists were common in Byron Bay and holiday-makers should avoid the town. But what's the truth?

• Byron Bay: Sun, Surf and a Laid-back Lifestyle
  
• Find Suitable Accommodation in Byron Bay

Photo: Byron Bay lighthouse © Tourism New South Wales