The September school holidays are a fantastic time for families to visit Byron Bay. Spring brings warmer days, plenty of sunshine and perfect conditions for getting outdoors. It’s also a great time for whale watching, with humpback whales making their way along the coast.
Kids can enjoy everything from surf lessons and kayaking to circus workshops, wildlife parks, fairy trails, skate camps, hands-on farm experiences and local markets. The warmer weather makes it easy to spend the whole day out exploring, from the beaches to the hinterland.
Here are a few school holiday activities to consider, and be sure to book ahead for the popular ones, and be sure to browse our Byron Bay accommodation guide for a family-friendly place to stay.
Byron Bay Whale Watching
The easiest way to spot whales is from land. Cape Byron Lighthouse is the go-to location. It sits high on the headland at Australia’s most easterly point. That height gives you huge ocean views and the odds of seeing whales here are very good. Most days, if you wait a little, you’ll catch a spout, a tail, or a full-body breach. For something a bit more special, you can get out on the water. Two tour operators run dedicated whale watching cruises from Byron Bay during the season:
Lets Go Surfing School Holiday Kids Surf Lesson
2 hour KIDS ONLY group lesson is for 7-13 year olds and includes all equipment and expert instruction in really small groups.
This lesson has been designed to provide education, maximum fun and safety for your kids. Along with lots of beach fun we cover the basics from warm-up to paddling, catching waves and standing while also catering to intermediate and advanced students (technique refinement and style improvement). Your kids will also learn important surf and safety rules including info on rips, tides, sandbanks and waves.
Circus Arts Byron Bay – KIDS & TEENS SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMS
Circus Arts Byron Bay is the place to be during school holidays! Our holiday programs offer a comprehensive timetable of activities during both the QLD and NSW school holidays. Circus Arts Byron Bay boasts a beautiful indoor venue with an incredible variety of apparatus to learn on. We pack the programs with fun circus activities including acrobatics and a swing on the high flying trapeze (for those who dare). We even have a cafe on site and an optional add-on lunchbox so everything is taken care of. Full detail + school holiday program via www.circusarts.com.au
Elves, gnomes, goblins and fairies have moved into Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens.School Holiday Activities at Crystal Castle
Enjoy the school holidays with a magical family day out at Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens. New for its 40th anniversary, Crystal Keepers & the Garden Folk sends kids exploring the gardens in search of tiny hidden villages, crystal charms, puzzles and clues. Find all four villages and become a Crystal Keeper, with a small prize at the end. It’s free with entry and runs alongside the Daily Experiences School Holiday Program.
Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
The Sanctuary is home to more than 100 incredible Australian wildlife animals, including kangaroos, a fabulous array of birds and reptiles including snakes and crocodiles, plus our resident personalities Manda the wombat and Arnie the koala. We have bunnies and guinea pigs and a Chick House with lots of baby chicks that can be handled. They also offer a range school holiday programs and wildlife encounters that allow visitors to experience these beautiful animals up close. Learn more www.byronbaywildlifesanctuary.com.au
Farm Kids School Holiday Workshops
The kids will love getting their hands dirty in our fun and interactive school holiday workshops, learning about sustainable agriculture and making new friends! Bees, cows, nature crafts, chickens, lavender, fruit, bugs and flowers! Learn more www.thefarm.com.au/kids-workshops
Haven Gallery – A playground of light, sound and imagination
Step into a playground of light, sound and imagination at Haven Gallery in the heart of Byron Bay. Explore immersive installations, wander through the colourful streetscape of Haven City and discover art you can interact with, rather than just look at. With light, colour, movement and sound around every corner, it’s a fun and creative school holiday experience for kids and families to explore at their own pace.
Byron Beachside Market Saturday 26 September
The Byron Beachside Market takes place four times a year in early January, Easter, July and late September. The Beachside Market is a ‘make it, bake it, sew it and grow it’ market held on the Byron Bay foreshore east of the Surf Club. This is the perfect location to experience some of the most original products alongside one of Australia’s most famous beaches.
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