Tucked away in Byron’s misty hinterland, Simon Clarey crafts surfboards by hand, each one a collaboration between maker and surfer, shaped with intention and feel.

At A Mano Surf, the process is everything. From the first cut to the final coat, it’s a dusty, delicate dance of focus and patience. Every board is shaped through a deep understanding of flow, form, and individuality.

For Simon, shaping is more than a skill, it’s a shared language between surfer and sea.

There’s something about Aussie summer that calls for a beer that’s light in the hand but big on refreshment, something that plays nice with sunshine, salty skin, and the sizzle of the barbie. So, when life gave us lemons, we didn’t just make lemonade… we brewed a Radler.

Our Citrus Radler is our freshest take on a classic thirst-quencher, part beer, part citrus hit, and all easy drinking. Crafted with real Aussie lemon purée, with notes and aromas of grapefruit and orange, and our go-to Galaxy hops, it’s a little zesty, a little juicy, and unmistakably Stone & Wood.

Born and brewed for long summer days, Radler is our way of saying: you don’t need to pick between beer and refreshment. You can have both, in the one tin.

Brewed for the Good Times

Radler isn’t just beer with a twist. It’s a full-on refresh. A mid-strength quencher that still tastes like beer (because it is beer), but with an added hit of natural Australian lemon puree, plus grapefruit and orange flavours to round things out.

It starts with a base not too far from our beloved Pacific Ale, pale and wheat malts, a little less haze, a touch more colour, and of course, Galaxy hops doing what they do best. But what really brings it to life is when we throw in real lemon during the whirlpool and layer on citrus post-ferment. Think zesty, fresh and bright, like a lemon tree in full sun.

Radler vs the Rest

Let’s be clear: Radler isn’t a gimmick, or a shandy in disguise. It’s a style with history, depth and a whole lot of sessionable charm.

Compared to our Pacific Ale, Citrus Radler pours with a touch more colour, a little less haze, and plenty more citrus character. Our brewers spent years perfecting the recipe to strike just the right balance, refreshing and approachable, without being overly sweet or fake fruity, and still appealing to beer lovers who enjoy the real thing. The result is a crisp, citrus-forward beer that tastes natural and spot on, brewed the way we do best.

It’s also 4% ABV mid-strength, making it the perfect plus-one for beach hangs, park hangs, backyard hangs… you get the vibe. If Pacific Ale is your go-to, think of Radler as your summer fling.

A Beer for Everyone

Citrus Radler is brewed with more than just the classic beer drinker in mind. It’s for people who usually reach for a spritz, cocktail or RTD, but still want something refreshing and a little different, and it’s for the beer lovers too. After plenty of trial and testing, we’ve found that even the most dedicated beer drinkers have fallen for it. That’s because it’s crafted to sit in that sweet spot: approachable, balanced, and full of real character.

At its core, you’ve got a smooth blend of pale and regen malts, malted wheat, and a good hit of Galaxy hops, enough to give it that satisfying beer backbone without tipping into heavy or bitter territory. Then comes the fruit notes and aromas: lemon, grapefruit and orange, which bring a bright, zesty lift that feels more like summer in a glass than a typical “fruit beer.” Nothing fake, nothing over-sweet, just crisp and refreshing flavour that feels familiar and new all at once.

It’s the kind of beer you can bring to any occasion and know it’ll go down well, whether you’re sharing a round with your best mates, cracking one with your partner after work, or passing a can to your mum or dad at a long lunch. Citrus Radler is a beer that doesn’t draw lines between beer fans and non-beer fans. It’s brewed for everyone, made for sunny afternoons, and ready whenever the esky is.

Built for Summer Moments

From beach days and backyard cricket to long lunches that turn into lazy afternoons, this beer was made to keep up with you, not slow you down.

Bring it to your next picnic, pull it from the esky after a surf, or crack one open while you wait for the prawns to hit the grill. However you spend your summer, Radler’s the kind of beer that just fits in.

Same Purpose, Different Path

We’re proud to brew Citrus Radler here in Byron Bay as part of our broader commitment to good beer, good times and doing good by the planet. As a certified B Corp, we’re always thinking about how we can leave things better than we found them, from sourcing locally to supporting our community.

And honestly? If that means brewing a zesty, sessionable beer made for sunshine and sharing… we reckon that’s a pretty good place to start.

You know how it goes. You’re standing around the esky, crack open a cold can of our new Citrus Radler, and someone throws it out there:

“So... it’s just a fancy shandy, right?”

Fair question. At first glance, they might seem similar, both easy-drinking, citrusy and built for hot arvos. But when you dig a little deeper, you’ll find that a Radler and a shandy are more like distant cousins than twins. They might show up to the same backyard BBQ, but they’ve definitely taken different roads to get there.

Let’s unpack it.

What’s a Shandy?

A shandy is your classic mix, usually one part beer (like a lager or light ale), one part lemonade or lemon squash. It’s blended on the spot, whether it’s your local bartender pouring it from the tap, or you mixing one yourself at home. 

It’s casual, nostalgic and has its place. But here’s the key, a shandy isn’t brewed. It’s a half-half combo. Part beer. Part soft drink.

So, while it’s refreshing, the flavour is usually sweeter, less structured, and definitely not designed for beer lovers chasing real depth or balance.

And a Radler?

A Radler, on the other hand, is a purpose-brewed style of beer that’s been around for over a century. It was first poured in Germany for cyclists looking for something cold, light and sessionable post-ride. (Fun fact: “Radler” actually means “cyclist” in German.)

But unlike a shandy, a true Radler is brewed from the ground up. It’s not beer mixed with lemonade, it’s beer infused with real citrus during the brewing process. The result? Something light, fruity, naturally zesty and still proudly beer.

Enter: Our Citrus Radler

We’ve always brewed with the Northern Rivers lifestyle in mind, long summer days, salt in the air, backyard hangs that roll into the evening. So, when we decided to create our take on a Radler, we knew it had to tick a few boxes:

• Light and easy on the palate
• Full of fresh citrus character
• Brewed with intention, not mixed after the fact
• Mid-strength, sessionable, and undeniably refreshing

Our Citrus Radler is all that, and then some. We brew it with Galaxy hops, regenerative malts, and add 100% Aussie lemon purée during the whirlpool. Once fermentation’s done, we finish it with natural orange and grapefruit flavours to dial up the citrus.

At 4.0% ABV, it’s crisp and refreshing without compromising on taste, with just enough zing to make you want another.

And unlike a shandy, there’s no lemonade or soft drink in sight. Just beer, crafted with care, and a little citrus twist.

Same Purpose, Different Path

Both Radlers and shandies exist for the same reason: to quench thirst. They're made for summer, for sweaty afternoons, for post-surf chill outs and backyard hangs with the crew.

But where a shandy leans on lemonade, a Radler is brewed with integrity, it’s real beer, made with real fruit, and built from the ground up to be bright, citrusy and sessionable.

At Stone & Wood, we don’t just want to make something “like a shandy.” We want to make something that’s uniquely us, something brewed with the same purpose and care as everything else we make. And we want it to reflect who we are and where we’re from.

That’s why we use locally grown fruit, regeneratively farmed grains, and why we’re proud to be a Certified B Corp, committed to leaving the Earth better than we found it. From our solar-powered brewery to our community-focused inGrained Foundation, we believe good beer should do good too.

The Verdict?

Next time someone asks if our Citrus Radler is just a fancy shandy, feel free to smile and say:

“Nah mate, it’s a proper beer with a citrus twist.”

Same thirst-quenching vibe, different story in every can.

Here at Stone & Wood, we’ve always believed that brewing good beer goes hand in hand with doing good by our community and the patch of Earth we’re lucky to call home.

We’re born and brewed in the Northern Rivers, and while we take our beer seriously, we don’t take ourselves too seriously. Except when it comes to looking after the planet, that’s something we’re proud to put front and centre.

So, what happens after the brew’s done and the cold ones are poured? A lot, actually. Each batch of beer leaves behind by-products, spent grain, hops, yeast, and instead of chucking it, we’ve figured out better ways to use the good stuff that’s left over.

What Exactly Are Beer By-Products?

Glad you asked. Beer by-products are the leftovers from the brewing process, and there’s more to it than you might think. The big one is spent grain, mostly malted barley that’s been used to extract sugars for fermentation. It’s hearty, fibrous, and still packed with nutrients.

Then there’s hop trub, the leftover leafy green bits from hops that give beer its bitterness and aroma, plus yeast sediment and other organic material from fermentation. All of it’s natural, but it piles up quickly, which is why it’s important to make sure it doesn’t go to waste.

Feeding Local Livestock

Once we’ve mashed in and drained the grainy goodness, what’s left is a heap of spent grain, still packed with fibre and protein, and smelling like warm porridge on a winter’s morning. Rather than letting it go to waste, we pass it on to local farmers who use it to feed their livestock.

It’s a win-win. They get top-notch feed for their animals, and we get to keep it local and circular, just the way we like it. Plus, there’s something pretty satisfying about sipping a Stone & Wood while knowing the grain from that beer helped fatten up a happy cow on a nearby farm.

Composting What Can’t Be Fed

We also make sure that anything not suitable for animal feed, like hop trub or spent yeast, gets composted and returned to the soil. We work with local growers and garden projects to help boost soil health and feed backyard veggie patches across the region.

There’s something special about knowing that our brewing leftovers are helping cherry tomatoes grow in community gardens or leafy greens flourish in someone’s backyard, it’s all part of our journey from coldie to compost.

Proudly B Corp Certified

Being B Corp certified means we meet the highest standards for social and environmental impact, not just in our words, but in how we operate every day.

From the way we brew and package our beer to how we look after our crew, community and backyard, every decision we make gets filtered through the lens of doing better.

Recycling our beer by-products is just one piece of the puzzle. It's all part of a bigger picture, using business as a force for good and making sure our beer leaves a positive mark, not just a footprint.

Brewed With Care for Our Home

Everything we do here at Stone & Wood ties back to the place we call home. From the people we brew with to the way we treat our waste, we’re committed to leaving the Northern Rivers better than we found it.

Recycling our by-products is just one part of the puzzle, but it’s a piece we take seriously. Whether it’s fuelling farms, feeding gardens, or one day powering the next batch of beer, we’re proud to keep it all in the family, and on our home turf.

So next time you crack open a cold one, you can feel good knowing it’s a beer that’s brewed with purpose.

Brewery Tours and Behind the Tanks

Ever wondered what goes into brewing your favourite Stone & Wood beverage? Come see it for yourself at one of our breweries in Byron Bay, Brisbane, or Murwillumbah (only open once a year for our Open Day!). Each spot has its own vibe, but what ties them all together is our love for good beer, good people, and doing things the right way.

On our Byron Bay brewery tour, you’ll get a proper look behind the tanks, where we mill the grain, fire up the brew kettles, and talk all things sustainability. You’ll learn how we reuse by-products like spent grain and hop trub, and how we put our brewing waste to work in ways that do good for our local patch.

It’s a chance to get up close with our crew, ask the curly questions, and of course, finish with a tasting paddle of fresh beer poured straight from the source. Book a brewery tour and get a taste of how we brew with purpose across the Northern Rivers and beyond.

Our in-house beer expert Jess gives the lowdown on the all-new Citrus Radler 🍋 In her words: it feels like a delicious beer has gone on a summer vacation. ⁠
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In this episode of Taste Test with Jess, we're cracking open the ultimate summer refresher: Citrus Radler. With real lemon juice blended into a crisp ale base, this one’s made for long arvos in the sun. Jess breaks down the flavour profile, food pairings, and when to reach for a Radler. Hit play, crack a can, and get tasting.

We get it, when a new beer drops, especially one with citrus in the name, the first thing you want to know is how it stacks up against the original. And around here, there’s no beer more iconic than our Pacific Ale. Born from the salt, sun and laid-back energy of the Northern Rivers, it’s been pouring in pubs, beachside bars and backyard eskies since day one.

So, when we brewed up Citrus Radler, we figured some of you might be wondering: is it like Pacific Ale? Is it sweeter? Is it for beer drinkers or more for the “just-a-splash” crew? And the big one, what even is a Radler?

We’ve got you. Here’s the lowdown.

A Shared DNA

Let’s start with what they have in common. Think of Citrus Radler as having Pacific Ale’s good bones, a similar malt base made up of pale malt, regen malt, malted wheat and rolled wheat, bringing a smooth, slightly biscuity foundation that you’ll recognise straight away.

We’ve also kept our favourite hop in the spotlight, Galaxy, which gives both beers that distinct hit of tropical fruit, especially passionfruit. If Pacific Ale is your go-to, the first sip of Radler will feel familiar. Comforting even.

But that’s where the paths start to split.

Radler’s Citrus Twist

Here’s where things get interesting.

Citrus Radler brings something extra to the table, a bright, zesty kick of real fruit, thanks to 100% Australian lemon purée added during the whirlpool stage of brewing (that’s the hot side). Post-fermentation, we layer in natural orange and grapefruit flavours, all derived from actual fruit. Nothing artificial. No syrupy sweetness. Just crisp, natural refreshment that lifts the whole experience.

It pours a golden hue, a little brighter and clearer than Pacific Ale, with a gentle citrus aroma that hits you as soon as the can cracks. And at mid-strength, it’s the kind of beer that doesn’t demand too much, light on the palate, low on alcohol, and perfect for long sessions under the sun.

In short: it’s summer in a can.

For Pacific Ale Fans Wanting Something Fresh

If you love Pacific Ale’s easy-going charm but feel like mixing it up, Citrus Radler could be your new weekend staple. It brings the same relaxed attitude, just with a citrusy twist and a slightly lighter body.

It’s also a great way to bring someone new into the fold, that friend who’s not quite into “beer beer” but wants something flavourful and sessionable. Radler is approachable, refreshing and brewed with care, no shortcuts, no sugar bombs, just real ingredients and a clean finish.

Perfect for post-surf cool downs, fish tacos at sunset, or that second round you didn’t think you had in you.

The Bigger Picture

At Stone & Wood, beer has always been more than what’s in the glass. For us, it’s about bringing people together, sharing stories, moments, and a sense of place. That place for us is the Northern Rivers, and it shows up in everything we do, from the ingredients we choose to the way we brew.

We're proudly Certified B Corp, which means we hold ourselves to higher standards around sustainability, community and transparency. It’s not just a badge, it’s a commitment. We source regenerative malts that are better for the soil, use Australian-grown fruit, and we give back through our inGrained Foundation, supporting grassroots organisations that make our region thrive.

When we brewed Citrus Radler, we wanted something that reflected that same ethos: something light, refreshing, made with real ingredients and brewed with care, for the people who drink it and the planet we live on.

So, whether you're loyal to Pacific Ale, curious to try something new, or just after something easy to sip when the sun’s still high, Citrus Radler is ready to roll.

You’ll find Citrus Radler wherever you pick up Stone & Wood, or better yet, swing by our Byron Tasting Room and enjoy one fresh off the tap.

See you soon, legends.

Lately we've been working on something that we're genuinely excited about. It's called Project Re-In-Can-Ation, and it's our attempt to do something meaningful about the aluminium recycling situation in Australia.

By joining forces with our supply team we have created a can that is 20% higher in recycled aluminium content than our old can while also reducing our carbon emissions by a significant 53%.

A Reality Check

How did we get here? Well, here’s a statistic that caught our attention: only 64% of aluminium cans in Australia are actually getting recycled. This means for every three cans that goes out our brewery doors, one ends up in landfill, on our beaches or buried in the bush somewhere it shouldn't be.

When this sunk in, we knew we wanted to be part of the solution. We know that creating a higher recycled level can does not solve the issue of low recycling rates, but it does highlight what is possible and what we are capable of as businesses and individuals when we join forces.

What We're Trying to Do

We've teamed up with our supply chain partners to create cans with higher recycled aluminium content and lower levels of carbon primary aluminium.

The name Project Re-In-Can-Ation is our way of acknowledging that aluminium cans are infinitely recyclable, which is pretty remarkable when you think about it.

The technology and systems are there, we just need more cans in circulation to make it common practice.

Over the next 18 months, we're planning to produce 15 million of these cans, which compared to our 2023 cans, helps reduce our carbon emissions by around 1,235 tonnes.

In the grand scheme of things, this is a drop in the ocean but it’s not a bad start.

Why This Matters to Us

At Stone & Wood, we've always tried to use business as a force for good. We were fortunate to become the first Australian brewery to achieve B-Corp certification, and our breweries are certified carbon neutral by Climate Active. We also know there's always more work to be done.

Packaging contributes significantly to the environmental impact of our products. While aluminium is infinitely recyclable and can be collected through kerbside programs and container deposit schemes, the current recycling rates show us there's real opportunity for improvement from all sides.

The Two-Pronged Approach

Creating a more sustainable can isn't just about one thing – it's about deconstructing the problem from multiple angles, which is something that requires collaboration.

On one hand we’re increased the recycled aluminium content of our cans (because recycled aluminium typically produces way fewer carbon emissions than virgin material), AND we’re also using low-carbon primary aluminium for the bits that still need virgin material. Our supply chain partners have truly paved the way for this project to come to fruition and we feel grateful for their support and dedication to better practices.

Novelis manufactured aluminium coils in South Korea with the increased proportion of recycled aluminium content. This included pre-and post-consumer recycled content. These aluminium coils also used a portion of primary (virgin) aluminium.

Novelis also worked with their supplier, Rio Tinto, to secure supply of low-carbon primary aluminium which was made at Rio Tinto’s Bell Bay Aluminium smelter in Tasmania.

Our can manufacturer, Visy, made our cans locally at their site in Yatala, QLD, and then sent to our brewery for filling. Visy also supports the circular economy of aluminium by collecting and providing used beverage cans and scrap aluminium to Novelis for recycling.

The heart of the project is simple: every empty aluminium can presents an opportunity. Re-In-Can-Ation is about bringing sustainability into focus while supporting Stone & Wood’s commitment to a greener future for brewing.

This collaborative approach has allowed us to produce a can that:

• is estimated to generate 59% lower carbon emissions compared to our previous 375ml cans
• contains on average 83% recycled aluminium
• uses low carbon primary (virgin) aluminium sourced from Rio Tinto’s Bell Bay Aluminium smelter

How You Can Help

The big issue in increasing recycling rates is making sure that more cans remain in circulation. This is where everyone can play a part and sometimes going out of our way can make a huge difference.

• Keep recycling – always make sure to put that empty can in the recycling bin or take it to your local Container Deposit Scheme point.
• Take small actions – picking up litter when you see it, using your Container Deposit Scheme refunds to support local community groups or charities. Keep an eye out for lost cans on the beach next time you paddle out for a surf, or pick up that rusty can you keep running past on your morning trot.
• Engage with your community – let your local council know if you'd like better access to recycling in public spaces or more education about proper disposal.
• Share the message – conversations about recycling with friends and family can make a real difference.

Looking Forward With A Can-Do Attitude

We recognise that this project is just one small part of what needs to be a much bigger effort. Governments, companies, and individuals all have roles to play in improving education, access to recycling, and awareness about proper disposal.

The fact that only two-thirds of our aluminium cans currently get recycled shows there's work to do. We hope initiatives like Re-In-Can-Ation can highlight what is possible when we work together and contribute to conversations about creating a circular economy that works better for everyone.

A Simple Ask

Next time you finish a Stone & Wood, we'd be grateful if you could make sure that can makes it to the recycling bin. It's a small action, but when lots of people do it, it adds up to something meaningful.

We believe in the potential of aluminium recycling, and we appreciate everyone who takes the time to recycle properly. Together, we can help more cans have that eternal life.

Interested in learning more about our recycling initiative? You can find additional details and links about the Re-In-Can-Ation project on our website.

We get it. Sometimes you want a cold one, but not a big one. Something tasty, a little zesty, and refreshing enough to go back for seconds, but not so heavy it knocks you flat. That’s exactly where our Citrus Radler rolls in.

It’s beer, but it’s lighter. It’s zesty, not sweet. It’s brewed, not blended. And if you’ve ever found yourself torn between reaching for a beer or a seltzer, this might just be your perfect middle ground.

So… what is Radler?

Think of a Radler as beer’s easy-going cousin, relaxed, sessionable, and great company on a warm afternoon. Traditionally, it’s a mix of beer and citrus soda, but ours is brewed a little differently (we like to do things our own way). We start with a familiar base, not too far off our Pacific Ale, and add real Australian lemon puree during the brew. Post-ferment, we throw in a touch of natural orange and grapefruit to round things out.

The result? A clean, zesty, properly brewed beer that hits the spot when you want something light but still full of flavour.

Bridging the Beer – Seltzer Divide

If you’re a fan of hard seltzers, crisp, fruity, and lower in alcohol, but miss that malty backbone and hop character only beer can bring, Radler is your happy place. It’s got the refreshment of a seltzer, but the craft of a beer. It’s citrusy, lightly hopped (with Galaxy, no less), and sits comfortably under a Pacific Ale (4.4%) but just above Easy Pale (3.5%). 

It’s perfect for those in-between moments:

• The beach hangs that roll into sunset
• Sunday lunch when you’ve promised to “take it easy”
• A knock-off without the knock-out
• Your mate’s BBQ where you’re the designated driver (or just pacing yourself)

Why It Works in Aussie Weather

Whether you're floating down the Brunswick, pulling together a backyard lunch with mates, or setting up the esky for a long arvo in the sun, Citrus Radler just makes sense. It's got that real thirst-quenching energy, refreshing like a summer breeze, but with enough flavour to keep things interesting.

Not too heavy. Not too sweet. Not too boozy. It’s the beer you’ll want when the sun’s high and the vibe’s cruisy.

Lighter Doesn't Mean Less

One of the things we love most about Radler is that it brings big character in a light way. It's got colour and clarity, but it’s not as hazy as Pacific Ale. It’s zippy and lemony but never overpowering. And it’s brewed the same way we do all our beers, with real ingredients, local love, and respect for the planet we call home.

Brewed Better: Our B Corp Backing

Like all our beers, Citrus Radler is brewed in our certified B Corp and carbon neutral brewery in Murwillumbah, just 40 minutes up the road from our spiritual home in Byron Bay. That means every can supports our mission to leave the Earth in a better place than we found it, through sustainable brewing practices, local partnerships, and community give-back programs like our Ingrained Program.

We're Australian. We love our beer, we love our community here in the Northern Rivers, and we’re committed to leaving the Earth better than we found it.

Pull Up an Esky

Citrus Radler isn’t trying to be beer with training wheels, it’s made for beer drinkers who know exactly what they want: a lighter option that still feels like a beer. It’s something to share, to sip slow (or fast), and to bring along wherever the good times take you.

So next time you’re after something a little less boozy, but still full of flavour and story, look for the bright citrus burst in your local fridge.

We’ll meet you somewhere in the middle.

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.

From the home of the original Pacific Ale, here’s how it stacks up against its cousin, the Pale Ale.

If you’ve ever found yourself staring down the tap list or fridge door, tossing up between a Pacific Ale and a Pale Ale, we get it, they sound similar, but they’re not quite the same. And around here, where the warm air rolls in off the ocean and good beer is part of the daily rhythm, knowing the difference matters.

We’re Stone & Wood, deeply rooted in the Northern Rivers, and fiercely passionate about brewing beer that reflects our place and our people. So, let’s crack this open.

Where Pacific Ale Came From (And Why We Brewed It)

Back in 2008, when we first fired up the tanks at our original brewery in Byron Bay, we weren’t chasing trends or trying to fit in. We just wanted to brew a beer that tasted like this place, fresh, light, tropical, and perfect for those long, salty afternoons that roll in from the Northern Rivers coast. That’s how Pacific Ale was born.

We chose Galaxy hops before they were the go-to choice. While everyone else was aiming for crystal-clear brews, we embraced the haze and the flavour it brought. We weren’t trying to fit into a tidy little style box; we just made a beer that felt right.

Galaxy hops hold a special place in our story, not just for their bold passionfruit, citrus, and peach aromas, but for the journey we’ve shared with our longtime mates at Hop Products Australia (HPA), the growers behind Galaxy. It’s more than a supplier connection; it’s a true friendship that’s grown alongside us both. Galaxy hit the scene just as we did, and together, we helped put Australian hops on the craft beer map. Galaxy reminds us why using homegrown ingredients matters. The best hops, grown right here on Aussie soil, bringing their unmistakable flavour to every drop.

When we look out over the Pacific Ocean, where rolling hills meet the sea, that’s the feeling we wanted to capture. That’s where the name came from: Pacific Ale. A beer inspired by the coast we proudly call home. Pacific Ale was never about copying anyone else. It was about crafting something that feels like coming home.

Pale Ale: A Classic with Bite

Pale Ale’s been around a lot longer, first brewed in England and then adapted over the years by brewers around the world. It’s known for its balance of malt and hops, with a slightly firmer bitterness compared to Pacific Ale.

In Australia, you’ll usually find Pale Ales sitting somewhere in the middle, not too hoppy, not too malty. Often, they bring citrus, pine, or earthy hop notes, balanced by a backbone of toasty malt.

It’s the kind of beer that pairs with a pub feed, a game of backyard cricket, or a cooler evening by the fire. Familiar, steady, and just bold enough to make itself known.

What Makes Galaxy Hops So Special

Ask anyone who’s had a sip of Pacific Ale, and they’ll tell you: it’s the smell. That burst of passionfruit and citrus on the nose, like cutting into a ripe tropical fruit salad, that’s the Galaxy hop doing its thing.

Grown right here in Australia by our mates Hop Products Australia (HPA), Galaxy hops are a native standout. They’re packed with flavour and aroma but bring only a gentle bitterness.

That’s why Pacific Ale stays smooth and super easy to drink, tropical and refreshing without overdoing it. We reckon Galaxy is what gives Pacific Ale its soul, bright, bold and unmistakably Aussie.

When to Drink What: Picking Your Beer for the Moment

Not sure which beer suits the moment? Here’s how we see it:

Pacific Ale is made for warm arvos, long lunches, backyard BBQs and salty skin. It’s your barefoot, post-swim beer, light, hazy, and seriously refreshing.

Pale Ale is great when you’re after something with a bit more bite. It’s what you’ll want with a hearty feed, a cool change, or a Sunday roast at the pub.

Both are worthy of a spot in the fridge, it just depends on the moment.

Brewed for Good

At Stone & Wood, beer’s only part of what we’re here for. We believe business should be a force for good, which is why we’ve been certified B Corp since 2016, holding ourselves to high standards when it comes to sustainability, transparency and looking after our crew and community.

From our solar-powered brewery and regenerative practices to our inGrained Foundation supporting local grassroots causes, we’re committed to leaving the Earth better than we found it.

So, when you crack a Pacific Ale, you’re also supporting a better way of brewing, living and giving back.

From the Taproom to the Backyard

Whether you’re pouring a fresh Pacific Ale straight from the taps at our Byron brewery, cracking a stubby on the deck, or sharing a six-pack with mates under the sun, or after a surf, it always tastes better in good company. Pale Ale brings the punch; Pacific Ale brings the sunshine.

Come See Us (And Taste the Difference) Want to taste the difference for yourself? Come and visit us at our Byron Bay brewery, you’ll find fresh beer, good food, friendly faces, and a chance to see where it all began.

Not in town? No stress, our online store has you covered or check your local for Pacific Ale and Pale Ale in the fridge or on tap.

Whichever you choose, you’ll be getting a beer that’s brewed with purpose, made with care, and rooted in the Northern Rivers. Cheers to good beer, good mates, and this beautiful corner of the world we call home.