Byron Bay is famous for its stunning blue skies and perfect point breaks, but don’t be fooled, this laid-back town can still get its fair share of rainy days.
If you find yourself in Byron when the rain starts to fall and you’re not sure what to do, you’re in the right spot. We have put together a list of our favourite rainy-day activities to check out on a rainy day, and trust us, you’ll want to save it for when the sun comes back out!
But before we dive in…
When does Byron Bay see rain? Byron’s rainy season tends to hit during summer, from January to April. But don’t let that dampen your spirits! It’s the perfect time to discover a whole new side of this gorgeous place, with plenty of fun, laid-back activities that are just as ‘gram-worthy as those sunny days.
Rainy Day Activities in Byron Bay
1. Stone & Wood Brewery Tour & Tastings
When the rain rolls in, there’s no better place to hunker down than our Byron Bay Stone & Wood Brewery. Nestled just a short drive from Byron Bay, we reckon this is the perfect spot to escape the weather and dive into some seriously good beer.
Join us for a brewery tour where we’ll take you through the journey of our brews, from how we craft each drop to the unique flavours that reflect the heart of the Northern Rivers. After the tour, it’s time for a tasting session, where you can savour our latest creations, all brewed with a whole lot of love and respect for the land we call home.
So, grab a glass, relax, and let us show you just how enjoyable a rainy day can be when you're with good beer, good company, and the warmth of our local community. Cheers to that!
2. Watch a Movie at Palace Cinema
Image courtesy of Palace Cinemas
Rainy days and movies go hand in hand, don’t they? But when you're in Byron, a trip to the cinema is far from ordinary, it’s got that special Byron magic.
Whether you’re into the latest blockbusters, indie gems, or Aussie and international film festivals, the Palace Cinema has something for everyone. And here’s the best bit: each of their cinema rooms is fully licensed, so you can kick back with a cold one (maybe a Stone & Wood Pacific Ale) and enjoy it right alongside your flick.
We reckon there’s no better way to escape the rain and embrace a true taste of the Northern Rivers.
3. Watch The Waterfalls in The Hinterland
Image courtesy of Jenny's Travels
On a clear day, you might find yourself cooling off in the watering hole at the base of Minyon Falls. But when the rain’s coming down? That’s when you’re in for a real treat.
The falls come to life, gushing with power and beauty, there’s nothing quite like it. Nestled in the heart of the ancient Gondwana Rainforest in the Byron Hinterland, this spot offers a lush, winding walk through the rainforest, all the way to the Minyon Falls Lookout. We wrote a guide for the best Hinterland hikes in Byron Bay, check it out!
Pack a rain jacket, sturdy shoes, and maybe an umbrella, because you’re about to experience one of nature’s most stunning spectacles, rain or shine. It’s the perfect reminder that our corner of the Northern Rivers is something special.
4. Rainy Day Recharge: Byron’s Best Spots to Soak, Steam & Slow Down
Image courtesy of The Banya Bathhouse
When the skies turn grey in Byron, there’s no better time to lean into the slower pace and treat yourself to a little self-care. Thankfully, this corner of the world has more than its fair share of beautiful spots to unwind, warm up, and recharge.
Start with The Kiva Spa in Mullumbimby, a hidden sanctuary just a short drive from town. Surrounded by tropical gardens, their bathhouse includes hot hydrotherapy spas, a wood-fired sauna, steam room and a plunge pool, making it the perfect place to exhale and reset. Whether you're ducking in for a quick soak or booking a full massage treatment, it’s well worth the visit.
Closer to the coast, Comma Bath House & Day Spa in Byron offers a modern take on ritual and rest. With minimalist spaces and seriously good massage therapies, it’s all about slowing down with intention. Rain outside, deep tissue massage inside? Yes, please.
And if you're after a full wellness experience, The Banya in Mullum blends the classic European bathhouse with a luxe Byron twist. Think cold plunges, mineral-rich soaking pools, steam rooms and cocktails at the bar post-soak, ideal for couples, solo chill time, or a little group pampering.
Whichever way you choose to relax, these local spas offer more than just shelter from the rain, they’re little pockets of calm that remind us to pause, breathe, and take care of ourselves. And that’s something we reckon pairs perfectly with this beautiful region we get to call home.
5. Explore Byron Bay’s Quirky Shops and Markets
Image courtesy of byronbay.com
When the rain rolls in, there’s no better way to spend the day than exploring Byron Bay’s quirky, boho-filled streets. The town’s creative and eclectic shops are a huge part of what makes it so special, and they’re calling your name, rain or shine.
Stroll through the vibrant laneways, and make sure you swing by the Industrial Estate, packed with cool spots you won’t find anywhere else. And if you’re in town when the markets are on, you’re in for a treat.
It’s a perfect mix of local talent, handmade goodies, and a community vibe that makes the Northern Rivers feel like home.
PS. Looking for some of Australia’s most well-regarded markets? Check out our favourite markets in the Northern Rivers.
6. Discover Byron Bay's Best Art Galleries
Image courtesy of East On Byron
Byron Bay’s art scene is the perfect way to spend a rainy day. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, these galleries will give you a taste of the town’s creative heart.
Lone Goat Gallery, tucked inside the Byron Bay Library, is a must-visit, showcasing fresh exhibitions from local and international artists. They even host talks and workshops to dive deeper into the art.
Thomgallery is all about connection, founded by local artist Alex Thom, it’s a space that invites you to experience art in a personal, meaningful way, with pieces that really speak to you.
And for something a little different, Yeah, Nice Gallery in the industrial estate is always buzzing with new exhibitions and events, making it a fun, accessible spot to discover art and maybe even take home a new piece.
Just make sure to check opening hours before you head out, especially on a rainy day, some of these spots keep flexible hours, and you won’t want to miss them.
7. Embrace Your Creative Side with Clay Workshops
Image courtesy of Muddy Clay Play
Byron Bay is one of Australia’s most creative spots, so why not embrace your artistic side with a hands-on clay workshop? Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone.
The Claybarn’s Friday Night Social Club is a great way to kick off the weekend with a bit of fun, while Ochre Ceramics offers the perfect mix of clay, wine, and cheese for a relaxed, creative afternoon.
Mud Byron’s Community Workshops are all about bringing people together, and the Byron School of Clay’s Pottery Classes will have you shaping your very own masterpieces in no time. It’s the perfect rainy day activity to get your hands dirty and create something uniquely yours.
