Byron Bay, once a secluded coastal town, has morphed into something of a cosmopolitan centre over the last couple of decades. Throughout the warmer months, tourists take well-trodden routes between Raes on Wategoes and Cape Byron Lighthouse. But here’s the hack: go in winter. While the crowds never dwindle entirely, it’ll be a little more reminiscent of sleepy, hippy days gone by. Plus, the weather’s still fairly balmy, and some of the eateries rival the cities.

Right now, Broadsheet Access members can enter to win a $3500 winter getaway to the luxe resort Elements of Byron. Your prize will include three nights in the Luxury Villa for you and a plus one, a treatment each at Osprey Spa and $250 to spend at the hotel restaurants. For your chance to win, become an Access member today.

Here’s how to spend winter in Byron.

Eat

For a daytime bite, head to the only absolute waterfront eatery in the region – Beach Byron Bay. It boasts more than smashing ocean views. The kiosk opens early for breakfast with a streamlined takeaway menu of loaded croissants, brekkie rolls, pastries and coffee. Come lunchtime, it’s all about beachside standards, like a fish burger.

For dinner, you don’t need to leave Elements of Byron. Opt for the in-house restaurant, Azure Bar & Grill. Split between a casual outdoor terrace and a plush dining room, the crowd-pleasing menu spans share plates, woodfired pizza and seafood-forward dishes, with plenty of options for little ones and those with dietaries.

Otherwise, try Light Years for a fun, modern take on Asian cuisine. You might try honey king prawns with typhoon shelter crumbs, or a selection of bao buns (Korean fried chicken with cucumber and house ranch, or the eggplant katsu are the ones to get your hands around).

Drink

Bar Heather is run by James Audas and Tom Sheer, old school friends who run Lo-Fi Wines, an import business that supplies top restaurants up and down the east coast. The bar is loud and fun with a soundtrack of Afrobeat and late-era disco, and it showcases small independent wine producers from around the world.

Stay

Elements of Byron is an easy winner. The expansive resort blends the amenities of a beachfront stay with the service of a luxe resort – boasting 202 villas, an adults-only pool with a swim-up bar and direct access to Belongil Beach. Lounge in a cabana by your choice of pool, or opt for a beach view. If you’re energetic, activities range from tennis to rainforest tours and horse riding. But if you’re after R&R, head to the wellness centre to catch a beachfront yoga class or choose from an impressive menu of spa treatments.

For your chance to explore Byron Bay in winter and stay at Elements of Byron for free, become a Broadsheet Access member today.

 Broadsheet Access is a membership program with exclusive events, offers and restaurant reservations. Join today for less than the price of a Martini each month.