Byron Bay’s beaches face many different directions, increasing the chance for great waves. For those who still need to learn, Byron Bay is the perfect place to take surfing lessons with its often mellow waves. Mojosurf Byron Bay surf school:

Brunswick Heads, located about 20 minutes by road north of Byron Bay, is approximately what Byron used to be before the hippie invasion — a sleepy little village on a super-scenic inlet, with top boating and fishing, several bars and restaurants, and a great cafe culture. It is the perfect place for a peaceful getaway.

Built in the mid-18th century for the Qing emperors as a retreat from the heat of the Forbidden City, the Summer Palace is a vast imperial garden centred on Kunming Lake and Longevity Hill, both man-made. The lake was modelled on Hangzhou’s West Lake, with islands, bridges, and long covered walkways. Scattered around are pavilions, temples, and a recreated riverside street designed to look like a traditional market town. Later restored under Empress Dowager Cixi, it became her favoured residence. Today, it’s worth visiting not just for the palaces themselves, but for the long lakeside walks, shaded courtyards, and the sense of space that feels very different from central Beijing.