Byron Bay isn’t just famous for its stunning beaches and laid-back vibe — it’s also a great spot to explore Australia’s craft beer and spirits scene. The town’s vibrant brewing and distilling scene means you can sip local brews and spirits while taking in picturesque coastal views. Among the top options are tours that cater to different interests and budgets, from quick afternoon sessions to full-day adventures with lunch included. The tours we highlight in this guide stand out for their quality, variety, and reviews, like the Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session with a perfect 5-star rating or the Full-Day Brewery and Distillery Tour that includes a hearty lunch. If you’re a craft enthusiast or simply want a fun social experience, these tours promise memorable tastings and local insights.
One of our favorites is the Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session because it offers generous tastings, small-group intimacy, and flexible visits to multiple venues like Stone & Wood, Husk Distillers, and Lord Byron Distillery. Meanwhile, the Full-Day Tour provides a more relaxed pace with a sit-down lunch and additional tasting options, making it ideal for those who want a comprehensive experience. For a shorter, more affordable option, the Arvo Session packs a lot into four hours, with guided tastings and coastal views. Each tour offers a different vibe, so whether you’re short on time, craving a full-day experience, or on a budget, there’s something here for everyone.
1. Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session: Tastings & transfers
At number 1, the Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session is a top-rated tour, earning a perfect 5.0 from 98 reviews. Priced at $111.17 per person, it lasts about four and a half hours, making it an excellent choice for an afternoon escape. The tour includes generous tasting paddles at two breweries and a distillery — typically Stone & Wood, Husk Distillers, and Lord Byron Distillery — with guided tastings and the chance to learn how your favorite drinks are crafted. Transfers from designated meeting points are included, removing any worries about driving or parking.
What makes this tour stand out is its small-group format, which encourages friendly conversations and personalized attention. Reviewers love Jarryd, the guide, for his friendly manner and local insights. The tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace with ample tasting opportunities, but want the convenience of door-to-door transfers. Meals are available at the venues for an extra cost, so you can grab a snack or meal if you’re hungry.
Bottom line: This tour combines quality tastings with easy logistics, making it ideal for visitors wanting a fun, social afternoon with a local flavor.
2. Byron Bay Brewery & Distillery Tour: Tastings, Lunch & transfers
The Byron Bay Brewery & Distillery Tour is our top pick for those wanting a full experience that includes lunch, with a duration of about six and a half hours. For $147.03 per person, it features visits to two breweries and two distilleries or sometimes three breweries and a distillery, depending on availability. The tour kicks off at 11:00 am, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each venue, which include well-known spots like Stone & Wood, Wandana Brewing, and Cape Byron Distillery.
Highlights include guided tastings at each stop, with paddles for beer, spirits, cider, wine, and seltzer, plus a generous sit-down lunch at one of the venues, often with local beer or spirits included. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and reviews consistently praise Jarryd’s knowledgeable commentary and friendly vibe. Guests love the balance of structured tastings and free time to explore or chat.
This tour is best suited for visitors who want an all-inclusive day — tasting, eating, and learning without the hassle of planning. It’s especially good for those who want to sample a variety of drinks across multiple venues and enjoy a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: An excellent value for a comprehensive, all-day experience that combines tasting, eating, and scenic views.
3. Byron Bay: Full-Day Brewery and Distillery Tour with Lunch
The Full-Day Brewery and Distillery Tour offers a leisurely look at four of Byron Bay’s best breweries and distilleries, along with a tasty lunch. Priced at $135 per person, the tour lasts about six hours, making it perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Byron’s craft scene without rushing.
Participants visit the same well-known venues as the shorter tours but with more time at each stop to appreciate the process, enjoy tastings, and chat with guides about the local brewing scene. The inclusion of a substantial lunch adds to the value, making this a great option for those who want a full day of exploring and tasting without feeling hurried. The tour also provides scenic views of the coast and Hinterland, adding a touch of natural beauty to the experience.
While the reviews are fewer, those who have taken it report a satisfying balance of fun and education, with plenty of tastings and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s best suited for visitors who want a comprehensive day but prefer a less intense pace than shorter tours.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking in-depth insights into Byron’s brewing scene combined with a restful and social day.
4. Byron Bay: Arvo Session Brewery and Distillery Tour
Rounding out our list, the Arvo Session Brewery and Distillery Tour is a great option for a shorter, affordable afternoon outing. At just four hours and costing $98, it’s perfect for those who want a concentrated taste of Byron’s craft drinks without committing the whole day. Starting around 2:00 pm, the tour includes guided tastings at two breweries and a distillery, such as Stone & Wood, Husk, and Lord Byron.
What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on guided tastings and coastal views, combined with the relaxed pace of an afternoon session. Reviewers mention the friendly guide, Jarryd, and appreciate the opportunity to sample a variety of beers and spirits, including some cocktails at the distilleries. Transfers are included, ensuring convenience and safety. It’s suited for travelers on a tighter schedule or those who prefer a more casual, social outing.
Bottom line: This tour offers great value for a shorter, scenic, and engaging experience, perfect for an introductory taste of Byron’s craft scene.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When deciding which Byron Bay brewery tour best fits your style, consider your budget, time availability, and what kind of experience you’re after. The Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session is perfect if you want a quick, fun social outing and don’t mind a smaller group. If you’re craving a full day with lunch and multiple stops, the Full-Day Brewery and Distillery Tour offers excellent value. For those on a budget or short on time, the Arvo Session still packs plenty of tastings in a shorter window.
Think about whether you prefer a leisurely pace, guided storytelling, or more flexibility. If you like a bit of everything — beer, spirits, food, and scenic views — the Tastings, Lunch & transfers tour hits all those marks. Booking early, especially in high season, ensures you get your spot on these popular tours.
Final Thoughts
Byron Bay’s craft scene is enough to keep any enthusiast busy, but with these four options, you can pick a tour that matches your schedule and interests. Whether you want a quick afternoon taste or a full-day exploration with lunch, each tour provides a unique perspective on local brewing and distilling. The Afternoon Brewery and Distillery session is ideal for social drinkers, while the Full-Day Tour suits those wanting a more comprehensive experience. The Arvo Session offers great value for a shorter adventure, making it easy to fit into your Byron itinerary.
Remember, these tours are popular — especially in warmer months — so booking early is wise. Whichever you choose, you’ll leave with new knowledge, a few new friends, and plenty of stories to tell. Cheers to discovering Byron Bay’s craft spirit!