Byron Bay Tourism Statistics - How Many People Visit? (2023)

Page last updated: 2 January 2025

Byron Bay, located on Australia’s east coast, is a beach town renowned for its stunning surf beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and thriving arts and wellness culture.

How many people visit Byron Bay each year?

Approximately 1.62 million international and domestic tourists visited Byron Bay in 2023.

In 2019, over 2.41 million tourists visited Byron Bay. However, due to the pandemic in 2020, visitor numbers dropped to 985,000. Recovery began in 2021 with numbers increased to approximately 1.13 million.

In 2023, the number of international and domestic visitors grew to 1.62 million, a 7% rise from 1.51 million in the previous year.

How many tourists visited Byron Bay in 2023?

In 2023, Byron Bay welcomed 1.62 million visitors, 33% less than the pre-pandemic figure.

How many tourists visit Byron Bay every day?

In 2023, Byron Bay welcomed around 4,438 tourists per day based on the annual visitor count divided by the number of days in the year.

How much do tourists spend in Byron Bay every year?

In 2023, $996 million was spent by international and domestic tourists in Byron Bay.

In 2019, the total spending of tourists in Byron Bay reached $883 million. Due to the pandemic in 2020, spending totalled $526 million. Recovery began in 2022, with spending reaching $861 million.
By 2023, total spending peaked at $996 million, exceeding the pre-pandemic year of 2019 by 13%.

How much does it cost to visit Byron Bay?

The average cost of visiting Byron Bay is approximately $474 for a day trip per visitor.

Which countries visit Byron Bay the most?

The primary sources of visitors to Byron Bay are from New South Wales and Queensland.

Domestic overnight visitors in 2023 were estimated at 746,000.
Domestic day visitors in the same year were around 730,000.

Note: Exact visitors number are not disclosed online.

Byron Bay Tourism Statistics – Economic Impact 2023

The tourism sector is a major employer in the region, accounting for about 9.2% of local employment in 2022-2023. Tourism generated approximately 669 jobs.
Tourism contributed about 9.6% to the Byron Shire’s economy, making it a crucial sector for local economic health.

Why do people visit Byron Bay?

People visit Byron Bay primarily for leisure and relaxation, with 79% of total visitors (domestic and international) coming for holidays.

16% of tourists visit to see friends and relatives (VFR), highlighting the area’s social and cultural connections.
Business travel accounts for 3%, while 2% visit for other reasons.

When is the best time to visit Byron Bay?

December to February is the best time to visit Byron Bay with its lively beach with warm weather.

Weather: Average temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
Crowds: This is peak tourist season, attracting large crowds, especially during holidays and weekends.

Australia Travel Resources

How popular is Byron Bay as a tourist destination?

Byron Bay was ranked as the 4th most visited destination in NSW following Sydney, Newcastle, and Wollongong East.

It is the 11th most popular destination for international visitors across the country.

In terms of total visitation, Byron Bay was estimated to be the 21st most visited destination in Australia during the 2017/18 period.

What should tourists do in Byron Bay?

Hike to Cape Byron Lighthouse: Explore scenic walking tracks in Cape Byron State Conservation Park, leading to Australia’s most easterly point with breathtaking ocean views and wildlife spotting opportunities.
Relax at Main Beach: Swim, surf, or sunbathe at this lively beach. Byron Beach also offers yoga classes and beachside dining options.
Snorkel or Dive at Julian Rocks: Discover vibrant marine life, including turtles and dolphins, at Julian Rocks Nature Reserve with guided underwater tours.
Go Sea Kayaking: Paddle alongside dolphins and turtles while taking in stunning coastal views on a sea kayak tour.
Unwind at Wategos Beach: Enjoy the serene atmosphere, perfect for swimming, picnics, and soaking up the picturesque surroundings.

How many fish species is Byron Bay home to?

Byron Bay is home to over 530 recorded fish species within the Cape Byron Marine Park. Species found in the area include butterflyfish, clownfish, and various pelagic fish such as Spanish mackerel and wahoo.

Australia Travel Statistics Resources

Historical Statistics

Australian Tourism Statistics – 2012

Australia Outbound Travel Statistics Resources

Reference

BNSW: Byron Bay Tourism Data and Key Statistics