Jessica Humphries of Australian Yoga Journal shares her go-to places to practice and shop in our favourite coastal town, Byron Bay.
Byron Bay has long been known as a place where people come to be healed, and Yoga in Byron Bay has become something of a cliché. An abundance of natural therapists, peaceful pockets of nature and healthy eateries invite you in: but you stay for the unique sense that you’ve come home.
We sometimes call it ‘the Byron Bay magic’, and it’s one of the reasons Byron partners so perfectly with all things yoga.
Why this natural wonderland is perfect for yoga
The abundant nature is unbeatable: pristine coastline that wraps around the lighthouse lookout, hinterland havens enveloped in fairy forests and pockets of paradise that only the locals are privy to.
The air is fresh and it’s worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life. But that’s not the only reason visitors keep coming back (and sometimes pack their bags to make the sea change).
The spirituality of the land is palpable, and Byron has a unique relationship with the traditional owners: there’s an honouring of the custodians of the community that can be felt wherever you go.
Best places to practice beach yoga in Byron Bay
There’s no shortage of yoga studios in the shire, but if you really want a taste of the magic, roll out your mat and indulge in some quintessential Byron Bay nature.
Belongil Beach
A good option if you’re staying in town and don’t have a car, at Belongil Beach, right by the Wreck, you can find yourself a little patch of paradise and watch the morning walkers with their dogs. If you’re more of an afternoon practitioner (and you don’t mind a crowd), you can enjoy the daily drum circle whilst soaking up sunset views.
The Pass
Another option close to town, The Pass is well known to new and experienced surfers alike: but there are also plenty of pockets perfect for a private practice.
Wategos Beach
Head down early and claim the patch of grass in front of Raes at Wategos as you enjoy the view of sparkling sea dotted with surfers. Protected by the headland, Wategos feels private and peaceful, and is the perfect place to perch for some post-yoga sun soaking.
Byron Bay Lighthouse
Be prepared for a crowd during peak periods, but there’s a reason the lighthouse is so popular. Enjoy a loop through the rainforest and overlooking Byron’s iconic beaches, and half way through stop for some stretches on the grassy patch right next to this Byron favourite.
Suffolk Park Teatree Lake
This sacred spot that’s mostly kept secret is a powerful place for reflection. Park your car at the car park next to Suffolk Beachfront Holiday Park (just south of Byron) then walk along the sand towards Broken Head. After a 5-10 minute stroll you’ll discover this local secret on your right: just don’t tell anyone.
Where to buy yogic goodness: Clothing and jewellery for your inner Byron Bay yoga Goddess
You’ll need some attire for all the practice you’ll be doing, and there are some terrifically tempting locally made treasures to adorn yourself with (guilt free!).
Arcaa Movement – Inspired by mindfulness, this contemporary clothing brand is conscious, slow fashion at its best: boasting luxurious, natural fabrics with coastal colour palettes to complement all female figures.
Krystle Knight Jewellery – Think beautifully hand crafted and hand sourced healing crystal jewels, inspired by nature, that lets you take a piece of Byron everywhere you go.
Divine Goddess – One of Byron’s first-born yoga fashion stores, Divine Goddess sell beautiful, feminine yoga clothing, jewellery, props and more.
Bay Active – Ethical, sustainable and organic active wear born in Byron and placing a huge emphasis on supply chain transparency and giving back to the community.
Stay at Home Gypsy – SAHG specialises in sterling silver, seashell and crystal jewels that are quintessentially Byron Bay.
Two in the Sun –Two in the Sun creates locally made, sustainable and beautifully feminine gold and silver jewellery perfect for the nature-loving yogi. By Jessica Humphries, associate editor at Australian Yoga Journal. BodyMindLife Byron Bay is opening in early 2020! Follow our special opening offers and updates and visit our new Byron Bay studio soon.