Long hailed a hippie haven, Byron Bay also has a sophisticated side that will impress even the most discerning traveller. The harmonious fusion of hippies and millionaires is one of the many unique and endearing features of Byron Bay. People from all walks of life flock to Australia's eastern-most point to enjoy its unique beach-side charm, and there is a huge range of accommodation and leisure options to suit everyone. With the increase in flights to nearby Ballina airport in recent years, Byron is an accessible and affordable destination, from anywhere in the country. What you save on travel you can splurge on a little bit of luxury in Byron. From accommodation to dining to shopping and spas, there are so many ways to spoil yourself in Byron Bay.

If you choose to do Byron in style, beautiful Balinese style holiday houses, intimate hotels and sophisticated guesthouses await. Strict development regulations have curbed anything too large or flashy, so luxury accommodation in Byron means unpretentious grandeur designed to compliment the natural surroundings and Byrons relaxed pace of life. You can't talk about 5-star luxury accommodation in Byron Bay without mentioning the exquisite Byron at Byron Resort & Spa. One of the larger luxury accommodation providers in Byron, the Byron at Byron sits discreetly within 45-acres of beautiful rainforest. Just five minutes drive from the bustling town centre, there is a real sense of peace and tranquility at this luxurious resort. Guests can stroll along the boardwalks through the rainforest, relax by the expansive infinity pool, enjoy a game of tennis or workout at the gym, and complimentary yoga each morning. The Byron at Byron is also home to a wonderfully indulgent day spa, and gourmet restaurant.

Rae's at Wategos is another luxurious Byron getaway. Sitting on the beachfront at the idyllic Wategos Beach, the pink Moroccan and Mediterranean inspired retreat harmoniously compliments the exquisite surroundings. One of the most prestigious addresses in Byron Bay, Wategos Beach is a small sheltered cove sitting underneath the Byron lighthouse, surrounded by national parks, and dotted with some of Byrons most exclusive holiday homes. Rae's overlooks the beach and the Pacific Ocean, and with just seven rooms, guests enjoy personalised first-class service and a true luxury Byron experience. No wonder luxurious Rae's has played host to many A-list celebrities including Tom Cruise, Kate Winslet, Keanu Reeves and Meg Ryan. If you prefer the idea of self-contained luxury accommodation, The Villas of Byron and Amala Villa are sure to impress. These six private retreats are furnished with handcrafted Balinese furniture and fittings, and each feature a heated pool and spa set in tropical zen gardens. Located just a short walk from the town centre, the villas are each set behind 9ft walls in a private compound, allowing guests complete privacy and freedom. From the heated marble floors to the outdoor Balinese bathroom, these luxury villas truly set the standard for first-class self-contained accommodation in Byron Bay.

For that truly holistic Byron Bay experience, a visit to one of the areas amazing day spas is an absolute must. The Byron at Byron Spa is one of the best in the area, with six luxury treatment rooms, a steam room and Vichy shower. You can also enjoy an indulgent treatment at Rae's at Wategos spa which is now rated in the Top 50 Spas in the world. If you're visiting Byron on a romantic getaway, you must try the divine couples treatments at The Buddha Gardens Day Spa. This Balinese-inspired luxury sanctuary is located just minutes from the centre of Byron, and offers a range of treatments, as well as a heated plunge pool and sauna set in tropical grounds. Nestled in the Byron Bay hinterland, the multi-award winning Gaia Day Spa is also worth a visit. Be pampered with natural ingredients in a range of restorative treatments. For other beauty treatments, The Wax Room on Bay Lane is a must to get you in tip-top swimsuit condition, and to perfect that polished look, enjoy movie star treatment at the bohemian Velvet Nails boutique.

For stylish holiday retail therapy, Byron Bay doesn't disappoint. Visitors can spend hours perusing through Byron's eclectic and boutique shops. For clothes, shoes and accessories be sure to check out Pompidou on Lawson Street, Tupelo Boutique on Jonson Street, Sole Bros on Jonson Street, Angela Ritchie on Byron Street, and the newly opened Mimco on Fletcher Street. Kids will be spoilt for choice at the stylish Tiny People on Lawson Street, Essentially Byron on Lawson Street and My Toy Shop on Byron Street. Byron is also packed with beautiful designer homeware and giftware shops.

After a hard days shopping and pampering at the spa, indulge in some seriously good food and wine. The Balcony Bar & Restaurant on the corner of Jonson and Lawson Streets does good cocktails and tapas, and you can sit back on the deck and watch Byron buzzing below you. Another great option for tapas and drinks is the trendy St.Elmo's on Fletcher Street, which has a great selection of wines, delicious food, and some of the most friendly and stylish staff in town. For a delicious breakfast to remember, take a trip out to the Byron Hinterland to visit the renowned Harvest Cafe in Newrybar, a quaint little village just 15 minutes south of Byron Bay on the Pacific highway. In Byron, the Byron Beach Cafe at Clarkes Beach does a good breakfast and the views over Clarkes Beach and The Pass surf break are second to none. For fine-dining, head to Dish Restaurant on Marvell Street for fresh contemporary Australian produce in a swanky setting. The Byron at Byron Restaurant is another fantastic dining experience choice, with high ceilings, open terrace overlooking the lush rainforest, and a delectable menu of mouth-watering fresh seasonal produce. For fine beachside dining, Rae's at Wategos is the place to go. Sit on the terrace and enjoy delicious gourmet food and wine whilst absorbing the calming view of Wategos Beach and the ocean.

However you like to indulge on holiday, Byron Bay is sure to impress. From lying on the beach, hitting the surf, enjoying your luxury accommodation, indulging at the spa, or shopping and dining, Byron Bay has it all. Be sure to soak up the true spirit of Byron Bay whilst you visit, stroll down the beach at sunset, visit the local markets, and enjoy the relaxed laid back pace of life. Escape from the daily grind is the true luxury we all look for in a holiday and in Byron Bay you can lose yourself (or find yourself) in style.