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Cairns, Queensland to Byron Bay, New South Wales from $140: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Byron Bay, Australia

How to Get from Cairns to Byron Bay: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$140 by busBest price
1540 kmDistance
5h 30m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Byron Bay with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$119-463
Recommended
Company
Premier Motor Service, Brisbane 2 Byron Express
Bus
Average Duration
32h  35m
Estimated price
$140-220
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1540 km
Duration: 5h 30m

See more options

Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
7h  41m
Estimated price
$105-428
Company
Queensland Rail Travel
Bus
Average Duration
28h  15m
Estimated price
$130-4
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
9h  3m
Estimated price
$155-452
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
34h  46m
Estimated price
$224-491
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
23h  1m
Estimated price
$250-370
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Traveling From Cairns to Byron Bay

Traveling from Cairns to Byron Bay offers you a fascinating shift from Cairns’ tropical rainforests and Great Barrier Reef adventures to Byron Bay’s laid-back beach vibes and surf culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Byron Bay

Byron Bay features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering its own charm and experiences.

Byron Bay Town Centre
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
• Close to Byron Bay's famous beaches.
Belongil Beach
• Known for its relaxed atmosphere and beachside accommodations.
• Ideal for catching breathtaking sunrises.
Clarkes Beach
• Family-friendly with calm waters for swimming.
• Great dining options and close to the lighthouse.

Best Times To Visit Byron Bay's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Byron Bay's top attractions.

Cape Byron Lighthouse
Early mornings offer stunning views and fewer visitors at sunrise.
Main Beach
Visit during weekdays for a more tranquil atmosphere; weekends can get busy.
Byron Bay Markets
Arrive early on the first Sunday of the month for the best selection.

Byron Bay Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Byron Bay enjoys a temperate climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it an inviting destination year-round. Understanding seasonal weather patterns can help you choose the best time for outdoor activities, beach days, and local events.

Dining Recommendation in Byron Bay

At The Farm Byron Bay, you can savor their fresh, locally-sourced produce with a standout dish like the wood-fired pizza topped with house-made veggie ingredients. This experience contrasts with Cairns' seafood focus and offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can enjoy farm-to-table dining surrounded by lush greenery.

Cairns - Byron Bay operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns and Byron Bay, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus
Contact phone
+61 (0)418 364 364
Website
https://byronbayexpress.com.au/

Bus from Gold Coast Airport to Byron Bay

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
AU$21-26
Contact phone
+61 (0)2 6685 7447
Website
https://brisbane2byron.com

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Byron Bay Bus Interchange Station

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
AU$48-48

Bus from Brisbane International to Byron Bay Bus Interchange Station

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
AU$48-48
Contact phone
+612 6685 7447
Website
https://www.byronbayshuttle.com.au

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Byron Bay Bus Interchange Station

Average Duration
2h 30m
Estimated price
AU$35-45

Bus from Brisbane International to Byron Bay Bus Interchange Station

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
AU$35-50
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au/

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
29h 5m
Estimated price
AU$120-170

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Byron Bay

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
AU$19-27
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au/

Bus from Cairns to Brisbane

Average Duration
30h
Estimated price
AU$170-430
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au/

Train from Cairns Central Station to Roma Street

Average Duration
Estimated price
AU$110-190
Plane Show flights
Website
https://flybonza.com/

Plane from Cairns Airport to Gold Coast Airport

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
AU$75-220
Website
https://www.qantas.com/

Plane from Cairns Airport to Gold Coast Airport

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
AU$100-550
Website
https://www.jetstar.com/

Plane from Cairns Airport to Gold Coast Airport

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
AU$100-550
Website
https://www.virginaustralia.com/

Plane from Cairns Airport to Brisbane Airport

Average Duration
2h 19m
Estimated price
AU$90-550
Website
https://www.rex.com.au/

Plane from Cairns Airport to Brisbane Airport

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
AU$450-1

Cairns to Byron Bay: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cairns and Byron Bay offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book a direct flight with Jetstar, Bonza, or Qantas, as they generally provide the most seamless experience, taking around 2h 15m to reach Gold Coast Airport before heading to Byron Bay.
• Upon arrival at Gold Coast Airport, be prepared for a short but busy processing time and consider using the Arrivals Lounge to freshen up before heading out, as it can help you feel relaxed before the next leg of your trip to Byron Bay.
• Taxi fares from Gold Coast Airport to Byron Bay usually range from $70 to $90 AUD, so be sure to budget for this when planning your trip; alternatively, check out shared shuttle buses for a more economical option.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Byron Bay.

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The distance between Cairns and Byron Bay is approximately 1540.1 km by air and 1990.9 km by road. The typical travel time by flying to Gold Coast and then taking a bus is around 5 hours and 30 minutes, while traveling by plane alone takes around 9 hours and 1 minute. If driving, it usually takes around 23 hours and 1 minute, and if taking a bus, it can take about 32 hours and 35 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cairns to Byron Bay is to fly and take a bus. This option takes around 5 hours and 30 minutes and costs between $110 and $410. Alternatively, flying directly from Cairns to Byron Bay is another quick option, taking approximately 9 hours and costing between $140 and $350.
The prices of a bus ticket between Byron Bay and Cairns can range from $141 to $209.
To travel from Cairns to Byron Bay without using public transportation, the best option is to drive. The road distance is approximately 1990.8 km, and it takes approximately 23 hours to reach Byron Bay from Cairns by car. The prices may vary, but typically range from $250 to $370 for a one-way trip.
The most convenient way to travel from Cairns to Byron Bay without a car is by train and bus. The journey takes approximately 28 hours and 15 minutes and the cost ranges from $130 to $280. You can take a train from Cairns to Brisbane and then transfer to a bus that will take you to Byron Bay.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cairns and Byron Bay but it does involve transfers. There is no direct bus, but there are services available that depart from Cairns Central Station and arrive at Byron Bay Bus Interchange Station via Brisbane City. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 32h 35m. Buses are operated by Premier Motor Service and Brisbane 2 Byron Express Bus.
The flight between Cairns and Byron Bay typically takes 2 hours and 15 minutes. The cost of the flight can range from $148 to $348, depending on various factors such as the time of booking, airline choice, and availability of discounts or promotions.
Near Byron Bay, there are numerous options for accommodation with over 844 hotels available. Prices for these hotels start at $113 per night.

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