The Pass in Australia’s Byron Bay is Named Best Beach in the World

February 09, 2024

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Sunset at The Pass in Byron Bay with a surfer waiting to catch a wave

Frothy surf, soft sands, bohemian-hip culture and rich Aboriginal history have combined to crown Byron Bay’s The Pass as the best beach in the world, according to Lonely Planet.

Australia’s Byron Bay has taken the pole spot in Lonely Planet’s latest book, Best Beaches: 100 of the World’s Most Incredible Beaches. Renowned for its pristine white sands, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere, The Pass is also a surfer’s haven, with a right-hand point break creating optimum swells.

The area’s Aboriginal history is evident through a midden near the boat ramp, where archeological material like shells and bones give an insight into the conservation area’s past as a sacred site for the Arakwal people. Subtropical rainforest houses koalas and brush turkeys, while hiking tracks around Cape Byron offer views of The Pass from myriad angles.

Discover Byron Bay

Byron Bay, Australia

Elements of Byron

Pamper yourself with a visit to the spa, which offers massages and facials. You’re sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, which include 2 outdoor swimming pools, an outdoor tennis court, and a fitness center. Additional amenities at this resort include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge).

Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from

US$1,381

Byron Bay, New South Wales

Crystalbrook Byron

Byron Bay Eco-Luxury Retreat Amidst Tranquil Rainforest with Indulgent Spa & Forest-Themed Restaurant

1 night from

US$206 /room

Byron Bay, Australia

Cavvanbah Beach House

Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as an outdoor pool or take in the view from a terrace and a garden. Additional amenities at this bed & breakfast include complimentary wireless internet access and tour/ticket assistance.

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Byron Bay, Australia

28 Degrees Byron Bay – Adults Only

Pamper yourself with onsite massages or take in the view from a terrace and a garden.

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Byron Bay, Australia

Atlantic Byron Bay

Take advantage of recreation opportunities such as an outdoor pool or take in the view from a terrace and a garden. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, gift shops/newsstands, and a picnic area.

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Byron Bay, Australia

Victoria’s at Wategos

Pamper yourself with onsite massages or enjoy recreation amenities such as an outdoor pool.

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Byron Bay, Australia

The Bower Byron Bay

Be sure to enjoy recreational amenities including an outdoor pool and bicycles to rent. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a banquet hall.

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Byron Bay, Australia

Byron Bay Hotel & Apartments

Enjoy recreation amenities such as an outdoor pool or take in the view from a terrace. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access and tour/ticket assistance.

Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from

US$924

Byron Bay, Australia

The Oasis Apartments and Treetop Houses

Be sure to enjoy recreational amenities, including an outdoor pool, a spa tub, and an outdoor tennis court. Additional amenities at this aparthotel include complimentary wireless internet access, an arcade/game room, and a picnic area.

Total of 5 nights, 2 adults from

US$1,273

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The Pass is one of 15 beaches in Oceania featured on the coveted list, in addition to:

Blue Lagoon Beach, Yasawa Islands, Fiji
Lalomanu Beach, Upolu, Samoa
Tapuaetai/One Foot Island Beach, Cook Islands
Ta’ahiamanu Beach, French Polynesia
Cathedral Cove, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand
Awaroa Beach, New Zealand
Bells Beach, VIC, Australia
Cable Beach/Walmanyjun, WA, Australia
Wineglass Bay, Tasmania, Australia
Bondi Beach, NSW, Australia
Lucky Bay/Kepa Kurl, WA, Australia
Squeaky Beach, VIC, Australia
Tangalooma Beach, QLD, Australia
Whitehaven Beach, QLD, Australia

Byron Bay: 90-Minute Cape Byron Aboriginal Culture Guided Walking Tour with Bush Tucker Tasting 1

Byron Bay: 90-Minute Cape Byron Aboriginal Culture Guided Walking Tour with Bush Tucker Tasting 2

Byron Bay: 90-Minute Cape Byron Aboriginal Culture Guided Walking Tour with Bush Tucker Tasting 3

Byron Bay: 90-Minute Cape Byron Aboriginal Culture Guided Walking Tour with Bush Tucker Tasting 4

Byron Bay: 90-Minute Cape Byron Aboriginal Culture Guided Walking Tour with Bush Tucker Tasting 5

Byron Bay: 90-Minute Cape Byron Aboriginal Culture Guided Walking Tour with Bush Tucker Tasting 6

Byron Bay: 90-Minute Cape Byron Aboriginal Culture Guided Walking Tour with Bush Tucker Tasting 7

Brooke Drive

Byron Bay: 90-Minute Cape Byron Aboriginal Culture Guided Walking Tour with Bush Tucker Tasting

Looking for more beach inspiration? Read Secret Sands: These Are Phuket’s Top Under-the-Radar Beaches.

Written by Sohinee Basu

Rolling around in word muddles and hopping across inky puddles, this teeny-tiny adult kid can be found downing dumplings with fiery sauce and daydreaming about faraway beaches while keeping her fingers crossed during Roger Federer's matches. Like a cloud, she can't be pinned down (she'll judge if you don't get this reference); she lives for her love of all things artfully poetic and overwhelmingly beautiful.