Port Macquarie to Byron Bay road trip: Distance, drive time & stops

Port Macquarie to Byron Bay drive: Ballina to Byron Bay

After the Yamba to Ballina leg of the journey, it’s a short drive from Ballina to Byron Bay. But there are two good attractions just north of Tintenbar. Killen Falls is one of Australia’s most beautiful waterfalls, while Macadamia Castle grants a kid-friendly wildlife fix.

There are also several highlights along the coast which only require short detours. Take your pick from Lennox Head, Whites Beach, Kings Beach, the Broken Head Reserve and Arakwal National Park.

Otherwise, you’ll pass through agreeably atmospheric Newrybar and foodie hotspot Bangalow, then leave the highway at Ewingsdale. This is home to The Farm Byron Bay, where Byron Bay hot air ballooning tours take off from.

Top Byron Bay activities include brewery tours, art and wine classes and turtle snorkelling tours.

Accommodation choices, meanwhile, include the Bayview Beachfront Apartments, the beachside Cavvanbah and the Ingenia Byron Bay holiday park.

8 amazing Byron Bay experiences worth booking today

Experience the region’s glorious natural landscapes from above – on a hot air balloon ride.
Go kayaking with dolphins – and get much closer to them than on a boat tour 🐬.
Learn to surf – on a half day surf lesson 🏄‍♀️.
Discover the local secrets – let a guide show you the hidden beaches and waterfalls 🏖️.
Go on a three habitat wildlife safari – spotting koalas, kangaroos and flying foxes 🐨🦘.
See glowworms light up the World Heritage-listed rainforest.
Explore the Byron Bay hinterland – including the rainforest walk to Minyon Falls.
Taste craft beers and spirits – on a tour of Byron’s breweries and distilleries 🍻.
Also try… Skydives | Sea-kayaking | Whale-watching.