Mullumbimby: A Day in Byron’s Biggest Little Town
Twenty minutes inland from Byron Bay, cradled by green hills and watched over by the distinctive peak of Mount Chincogan, sits Mullumbimby — affectionately known as “Mullum” and proudly called the biggest little town in Australia. It is creative, earthy and wonderfully unpretentious, and a day spent wandering its streets offers a very different flavour of the Byron Shire.
Why visit Mullumbimby?
Where Byron is all about the beach, Mullum is about community. Its main streets are lined with heritage buildings, independent shops, organic grocers, galleries and relaxed cafés. The pace is slower, parking is easier, and there is a genuine local feel that makes it a favourite with visitors looking for the region’s quieter, creative side.
Market days
If you can, time your visit for a market — they are the best way to experience Mullum at its liveliest.
Mullumbimby Farmers Market
Every Friday morning from 7am to 11am at the Mullumbimby Showgrounds, this is one of the region’s most loved farmers markets. Around 75 stalls offer seasonal fruit and vegetables, sourdough, cheeses, coffee, flowers and ready-to-eat breakfast, much of it grown or made locally. Bring a basket, arrive early for the best produce, and linger over a coffee.
Mullumbimby Community Market
Held on the third Saturday of each month from 8am to 2pm, the community market fills the park at the corner of Stuart and Myokum streets with handmade clothing and jewellery, plants, crafts, food stalls and live music. It is colourful, friendly and a great place to find a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
Market days and times can change, so check before you go. For the full regional line-up, see our Byron Bay markets guide.
Things to do in and around Mullum
- Browse the main streets. Spend an hour or two exploring Burringbar and Stuart streets for books, homewares, vintage finds and local art.
- Eat local. Mullum’s café and food scene punches well above its weight, with plenty of wholefood, vegetarian and organic options alongside classic bakery treats.
- Relax by the river. The Brunswick River runs along the edge of town, with parkland that is perfect for a picnic.
- Visit Crystal Castle. Just outside town, Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens is a popular attraction with giant crystal geodes, peaceful gardens and a rainforest setting.
- Drive the valleys. The roads north and west of Mullum wind through the lush Main Arm and Wilsons Creek valleys — beautiful country for a scenic drive.
Combine it with a hinterland loop
Mullumbimby pairs beautifully with other villages in the region. Head north-east to the relaxed riverside town of Brunswick Heads for fish and chips by the water, or loop south to Bangalow and Federal. Our guides to the Byron hinterland and coastal day trips will help you plan the perfect route. Nature lovers can continue on to the waterfalls and rainforest walks of the region’s national parks.
Getting there
Mullumbimby is roughly a 20-minute drive from Byron Bay. Local bus services connect the towns, but a car gives you the freedom to explore the hinterland at your own pace. If you are flying in, pick up a car at Europcar Ballina Byron Gateway Airport or Europcar Gold Coast Airport.
Where to stay
Many visitors base themselves in Byron Bay and make Mullum a day trip. For a stylish boutique stay, try Basq House or Swell Hotel, both an easy drive from the hinterland. Families and travellers on a budget will find cabins and plenty of space at Discovery Parks Byron Bay.
For more choice, browse Byron Bay accommodation or compare hotel prices on Trivago.
Plan your visit
Friday market coffee, a wander through heritage streets and a lazy lunch in the hills — Mullumbimby is the perfect antidote to a busy beach day. Find your base on our Byron Bay stays page, check what’s on, and use our planning guide and Eat & Drink directory to round out your trip.
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