Best Bars in Byron Bay for a Coastal Cocktail or Two

One of Australia’s most iconic coastal destinations, Byron Bay, with its relaxed vibe and crystal-clear waters, attracts crowds from far and wide. However, it's not only the sandy shores that draw in the masses; Byron boasts a buzzing bar scene that is second to none. Spanning both ends of the spectrum, you'll discover everything from sleek, modern, and ever-so-trendy venues to easy-going beach shacks and everything in between.

From a cozy tapas and wine bar on Bay Lane to a dreamy pastel-hued paradise (we're looking at you, Light Years), these are the best bars in Byron Bay to visit when the cocktail cravings hit.

Saltwater Social Club

Discover the coastal charm of Byron Bay at the Saltwater Social Club, one of the best bars in town. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunning ocean views, this beachside haven is perfect for enjoying refreshing cocktails and delicious bites. Whether you're soaking up the sun on the balcony or mingling with locals at the bar, the Saltwater Social Club offers a truly unforgettable experience. Raise a glass and indulge in the epitome of Byron Bay's vibrant nightlife at this must-visit destination.

32 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

Barrio

Embrace the local spirit at Barrio, a nod to the 'hood that's making waves among the best bars in Byron Bay. The industrial-chic vibe speaks volumes, yet warmth prevails with communal wooden tables, an open kitchen flaunting an Argentinian wood-fired oven, and outdoor spaces adorned with tables and picnic rugs. The food served here is authentic and has a suitably well-refined cocktail list to match. All this is thanks to Daniela Maiorano, the culinary virtuoso behind it all. She's a fourth-gen maestro from Abruzzo, Italy, infusing a touch of Italy into every Mediterranean-inspired shared plate.

1 Porter Street, Byron Bay

Bar Heather

As far as charming wine bars go, Bar Heather is without a doubt the cutest one in town. Pop in for a sip of one of their many divine independent wines, sourced from around the world and then stay for a bite of some of their equally as delish food. Standouts include the oysters with green chilli mignonette, the white asparagus with hemp seed cream and the egg noodle with cuttlefish and ink. 

G9 Jonson Lane, 139 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

Casa Luna

Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambience of Casa Luna, a hidden gem among the best bars in Byron Bay. Step into a world of rustic elegance where dimly lit lanterns and cosy corners set the stage for unforgettable evenings. Sip handcrafted cocktails expertly prepared by skilled mixologists, serenaded by live music. Casa Luna seamlessly transports you from the arid lands of Mexico to the hedonistic shores of the Mediterranean. Here, you can enjoy tapas and shared Mediterranean delights inspired by Latin heritage. As night falls, DJs transform Casa Luna into Byron Bay's premier dance haven, evoking Ibiza, Mykonos, or Tulum. Casa Luna offers an enticing trifecta of food, drinks, and dance—a defining experience among Byron Bay's bars.

9 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay

Loft

Experience the ultimate coastal chic ambience at Loft, where the sun-drenched interiors seamlessly flow out onto a terrace overlooking Jonson Street and Main Beach. With the recent appointment of a new Head Chef, formerly the Sous Chef at Beach Byron Bay, the restaurant offers a modern Australian all-day menu, featuring fresh and locally sourced ingredients, including the finest seafood. Savour the delectable dishes and pair them with stunning cocktails that are both aesthetically pleasing and delicious. Whether it's a relaxing brunch or a romantic dinner, Loft is the perfect destination to indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience.

4 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

Light Years

Mixing laid-back Australian beach culture with an effervescent Asian dining experience, Light Years is a perennial favourite for Byron’s local cocktail community. Hidden away just back from Main Beach, this gorgeous coastal hangout with its pretty pastel hues, friendly staff and gorgeously garnished drinks will keep you around all night. For something fruity, order a round of lychee rose martinis paired with mud crab, prawn and scallop dumplings and some spicy Korean fried chicken bao buns.

139 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

The Mez Club

Located along Byron’s main high street, The Mez Club is a must for cocktail hour. This beautifully designed venue has a rustic Mediterranean vibe, with white-washed walls, floor-to-ceiling doors and beautiful Moroccan-style furniture. The cocktails served here are fresh and vibrant and dangerously moreish. The Turkish Princess’ and ‘Classic Margarita’ come highly recommended.

4/85-87 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

Botanica Beach Bar

For an indulgent splurge Elements of Byron ticks every box. Not only for its luxe lodgings but for its trendy Botanica Beach Bar — a retro-style caravan, set up every day from 2pm-6pm, bang on Belongil Beach. Here you can order cocktails, mocktails, beers, wine, and even some tasty nibbles — with sand at your feet and panoramic views of Byron Bay Lighthouse.

144 Bayshore Drive, Byron Bay

Balcony Bar & Oyster Co

Steps away from Main Beach, The Balcony Bar embodies all that is Byron - laid-back and effortlessly cool. Renowned for their share plates of ocean-fresh seafood and delicious oysters, do as the locals do and park yourself up on the balcony with a cocktail in hand and watch Byron pass you by in the streets below. 

7/3 Lawson Street, Byron Bay

The Rails Hotel

Resident free live music venue, The Rails Hotel has been supplying the beats and all-around good vibes to Byron’s bustling Jonson Street for over four decades. Sharing their stage with local and touring bands playing everything from roots to reggae and blues to funk, this humble hotel is a local treasure. The sun-drenched beer garden is the perfect place to while away a summer’s afternoon with classic pub fare rounding out the quintessential hotel experience serving burgers, steaks and seafood.

86 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

Moonlight 

In the heart of Bay Lane lies Moonlight, a chic Japanese hibachi grill and wine bar crafted by the brains behind Light Years. Nestled in the casual cool of Byron Bay, Moonlight beckons locals and visitors alike to unwind in its intimate space. Choose your spot—be it the bar, dining room, or alfresco—and delve into a menu that takes classical Japanese flavours on a lively journey. Moonlight doesn't mess around when it comes to drinks, offering biodynamic wines synced with the lunar cycle, hot and cold sake, Japanese whiskies, and a cocktail list paying homage to the art of Japanese mixology. 

Bay Lane, Byron Bay

Pixie Food & Wine

Pixie Food & Wine, a local treasure celebrating food, wine, and connection is quickly becoming a favourite among Byron Bay's best bars. Born from a passion for leisurely lunches, intimate dinners, and everything in between, Pixie offers a versatile experience. Enjoy a cocktail at the bar, a spritz on the terrace, or settle into the main dining room for a laid-back meal. Designed by Flack Studio, the warm and inviting space pays homage to 1970s Italy, creating a visual symphony with vintage lighting, burnt terracotta flooring, and a central ziggurat bar. Pixie Food & Wine captures the essence of Byron Bay's creativity and vibrancy, making it a must-visit in the local bar scene.

139 Jonson Street, Byron Bay

Raes Cellar Bar

Indulge in beachside charm at Raes Cellar Bar, a local gem among the laid-back bars in Byron Bay. Nestled in the idyllic surroundings of Wategos, this spot offers casual yet refined vibes, perfect for a relaxed bar snack and curated beverages. With views of Wategos Beach as your backdrop, the Cellar Bar & Terrace provides a breezy escape. Open seven days a week from midday until sunset, it welcomes both locals and visitors alike to unwind in its inviting Cellar Bar & Terrace, offering unrivalled experience of Byron Bay's coastal living.

6-8 Marine Parade, Byron Bay

Loved our edit of the best bars in Byron Bay? For more travel inspo, be sure to check out these gorgeous Bryon stays and our favourite dinner spots to book a table at.