Known as Cavanbah (‘Meeting Place’) to the local Arakwal people, Byron Bay conjures images of holistic living, bronzed surfers and, more recently, Hollywood A-listers. Don’t be surprised if you spot Chris Hemsworth on its breezy, cafe-laded streets; the Aussie actor is a full-time resident.

While locals lament the rocketing property prices and crowds, the beach town remains a seductive place, one where beach yoga comes with a thriving dining scene and abundant natural beauty. Must dos include watching the sunrise from historic Cape Byron Lighthouse (Australia's most easterly point), hiking through rainforest on the Cape Byron Walking Track (3.7km loop), and lunching at sustainably minded The Farm. If it’s Friday morning, consider making a trip to the highly atmospheric, appetite-piquing Mullumbimby Farmers Market, 21km northeast of town.