BYRON BAY, NSW

This famous east coast town has long been adored for its incredible beaches and epic surf breaks, but this is no ordinary seaside holiday. With an eclectic culture unlike any other, Byron Bay is the destination where alternative new agers merge with the uber-stylish, and bronzed backpackers mingle with local hipsters. And while we will always love the iconic lighthouse walk, pandanus palm-lined Wategos and epic surf breaks at The Pass and Tallows, it’s all the happenings in town that excite us. With a recent surge in cool new places to try, our Byron Bay insider, Lara Picone, shares her top five new places to check out. 1. Located at Habitat, a live/work/play development in BARRIO Byron’s industrial estate, is this casual but sophisticated Argentinian-inspired eatery with a vibrant, hearty menu. 2. The old defunct railway has been given life with THE SOLAR TRAIN this solar-powered train (the world’s first!) that leaves town and heads to North Beach Station near Elements resort and Barrio. 3. This daggy motel has had a cool makeover THE BOWER that is New York-meets-Byron Bay. The property also features a beautifully restored 100-year-old cottage. 4. The historic store THE BYRON BAY GENERAL STORE (built 1947) has been converted into a cool cafe, the new hipster hang-out where you receive a 10 per cent discount if you ride your bike in. 5. Run by the people behind 100 Mile DUK Table, this chic Asian eatery is a welcome addition, with excellent food and mood.