Mr & Mrs Smith

Restaurateurs John and Lisa van Haandel have brought Melbourne-meets-Mediterranean magic to Italian at the Pacific (+61 (0)2 6680 7055) at the Beach Hotel, with contemporary Italian à la carte served in a sophisticated, laid-back venue. In the centre of town St Elmo Dining (+61 (0)2 6680 7426) is the go-to place for seriously cool vibes. You can eat from the excellent authentic tapas-style menu or just sit at the bar and enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail; it’s first in best dressed so you need to get there early in the busy season. In nearby Bangalow, try fine-diner Satiate Restaurant (+61 (0)2 6687 1010), or the more casual Ate downstairs (+61 (0)2 6687 2555).

Set in a historic building, the Balcony Bar & Restaurant (+61 (0)2 6680 9666) is a mellow port of call for lychee martinis and mojitos.

You’re inches from one of Australia’s most gorgeous beaches, Wategos, so grab your Seafolly suit and get in there. The hotel can hook you up with one-on-one surf lessons, or deep-sea fishing charters, whale and dolphin watching tours and even kayaking with dolphins. If you'd rather stay on dry land, a short, scenic walk takes you up to local landmark the Cape Byron lighthouse. From this lofty vantage point, you can take in sweeping views, spy dolphins cruising by or whale-watch in winter months, when the giant creatures migrate north to warmer waters. Should the mood take you, you can even hurl yourself off the top in a tandem hangglider. There are over 4km of spectacular walking tracks around the headland, taking in coastal rainforest, eye-popping beaches and ancient Aboriginal sites. Other activities nearby include horse riding on the beach and hinterland, golf at one of five local courses or a game of tennis. For a dash of retail therapy, art galleries, local markets and a stylish mix of cafes, bars and retaurants, just wander down the beach to Byron Bay itself. The vibe here is relaxed with a dash of glam, with gourmet hotspots reminiscent of Bali or Miami.