From Byron Bay To LA

From Byron Bay to LA

 

There seems to be a kindred spirit linking Byron Bay to Los Angeles.

 

It could be the stunning, sun-soaked beaches lining the coastline or the hipster eateries and boutiques dotted around the city’s. Maybe it’s the fact that you are likely to spot a few A-List celebs hanging around the Byron Bay markets, beach or getting a bevvy at hot spots like The Treehouse on Belongil, much like the star-studded LA.

 

Based in Byron Bay, the Stitch & Hide office is nestled in a court within the busy Art’s and Industrial Estate, but we also have our own LA connection. Our Washed Leather collection is hugely inspired by the cosmopolitan city and laid-back coastline, plus our brands founder works and resides there!

 

We thought we’d share the touristy spots you should make time to visit, our favourite eateries and bars and some hidden hangouts to make you to feel a bit more like a local in both LA and Byron Bay.

 

 

 

The Lighthouse & Main Beach – Wake up before dawn and head to the Byron Bay Lighthouse for a spectacular view of the Bay as the sun rises. Then walk down to Main Beach to soak up some rays before taking a dip in the shimmery ocean.

 

Take a Surf Lesson – Give in to a surf lesson if you are feeling envious of the pro surfers riding the waves at The Pass. Head to Mojosurf in the heart of town to suss out the surf conditions before booking in.

 

Mount Warning Hike – If you are feeling adventurous, head towards Murwillumbah (61km’s inland) for a vertical hike up the Mount Warning summit track. The breathtaking 360-degree view of the Byron Bay and the Gold Coast coastline from the top is well worth the 4 hour round trip.

 

The Byron Bay Community Market’s – Did you know Spell and The Gypsy Collective started selling handmade jewellery at the Byron Bay Markets? Come spot the next upcoming labels, find some treasures from artisans and feast on the huge selection of food and drink on offer. Every 1^st Sunday of the Month at The Butler Street Reserve.

 

 

Venice Beach – The pinnacle of laid-back beach culture with an eclectic bohemian spirit. Whether it’s the street art, skate-park, the famous Muscle Beach outdoor gym, the performers along the Venice boardwalk or the mix of funky and hipster shops and eats, make sure to stand back and take in the energy.

 

Shop at Abbot Kinney – This LA strip is a shopaholics delight, with one of a kind boutiques and the coolest eateries, bars and street art around every corner –well worth planning a morning to visit this haven.

 

The Griffith Observatory – The iconic landmark is a must just to tick it off your bucket list. If you are in LA, why not head to The Griffith Observatory to get the famous tourist shot of the Hollywood sign and treat yourself to a spectacular lookout over the LA city?

 

Watch a Baseball Game at Dodger Stadium – Experience ball game and all the action first hand. The stadium set within Chavez Ravine and framed by the San Gabriel Mountains on one side and a jumble of Downtown skyscrapers on the other is heralded for its beauty since opening in 1962.

 

 

 

Treehouse at the Belongil – For a chilled spot outside the crowds in town, head to the Treehouse for amazing live music, delicious wood-fired pizza and a relaxed atmosphere.

 

The Farm – Stop for lunch on the way into Byron Bay for a bite to eat at the Three Blue Ducks restaurant. Make sure to take a stroll around the grounds to see the animals and macadamia trees.

 

The Mez Club – Stepping into The Mez Club will send you straight to the Mediterranean.  Inspired by Moroccan architecture and the Greek Islands, the tapas style dishes and beautiful cocktails will leave you in a feel-good mood.

 

The Balcony – You will spot The Balcony perched high above the bustling Byron Bay streets as you drive into Byron. This iconic spot is one of the last historical buildings standing and delivers freshly shucked oyster and a mean expresso martini.

 

The General Store – This relatively new café has constantly changed names, looks and identities since opening in 1947. Its current reinvention however is definitely a keeper. Gather together for an early morning brekkie before taking to the Byron Bay streets!

 

 

Grand Central Market – This historic downtown landmark has been open since 1917 and brings together the cuisines and cultures of LA in this food emporium.

 

The Ivy at the Shore – The outpost of famous West Hollywood The Ivy. Head to Santa Monica for upscale Californian seafood twist presented in a romantic but buzzy setting and known for celebrity sighting.

 

The Tasting Kitchen – A hip and inventive Mediterranean spot known for its market-fresh creative plates, cocktail and a bustling brunch set in the heart of Venice’s Abbot Kinney Blvd.

 

Great White – A neighbourhood focussed café and restaurant in Venice Beach. Delicious fresh, local all-day food paired with great coffee, plus sandy feet welcomed – both thumbs up!

 

Chego – This happy, humble little LA-in-a-rice bowl offers tasty spicy rice bowls and a Korean-Mexican fusion.

 

 

 

The Wreck at Sunset -Just north of the seawall and the Main Beach Car Park, you will spot The Wreck off the coast. The popular surf break is named after the protruding shipwreck of the SS Wollongbar, get yourself a snorkel and mask and swim out to explore!

 

The Pass – Park at Main Beach, walk towards the lighthouse along the beach and you will come across The Pass. This popular spot is protected and has ideal beginner waves for new surfers.

 

Wategos – Pack yourself a picnic and enjoy the peaceful, sheltered cove which is nestled just around the corner from the Pass under the Byron Bay Lighthouse.

 

The Roadhouse – Venture two minutes out of town to find this light-filled café with rustic-chic charm and fresh, organic, sustainable food as its focus.

 

 

Beachwood Canyon / Lake Hollywood Park – An idyllic public space and one of the best spots to view the Hollywood sign!

 

Madame Siam Sideshow Emporium – Step right up for a freaky underground pageant of cocktails, games, contortionists and illusionists at this old-timey carnival-themed Hollywood club.

 

Twilight on the Pier – Free concerts on the Santa Monica Pier have been a LA tradition for over 30 years. 2018 sees a new name, new season and new vision with Twilight on the Pier. Showcasing the best and brightest acts from SoCal and around the world.

 

Pollen Los Angeles – A sit-down Australian inspired location in LA that feels more like someone’s cosy, well-designed backyard than a restaurant. Head there for brekkie or lunch at this cheery neighbour spot!

 

 

 

Elements of Byron – The modern Australian architecture and interiors inspired by the unique landscape of Mother Nature and the native flora and fauna of Byron Bay. Luxury awaits you amidst the 193 private villas dotted around the 22 hectares of beachfront paradise.

 

Atlantic Byron Bay – Positioned amongst beautiful palm tree, Atlantic is one of Byron Bay’s most stylish and luxe boutique hotel accommodations. Embracing Byron’s bohemian culture while instilling Scandinavian-style décor.

 

The Bower – Australian beach style motel reinvented and reimagined. A jewel in Byron Bay that reflects the eclectic spirit and beauty of Byron in a delightful way.

 

The Arts Factory Lodge - Backpackers – An enchanted 5-acre subtropical haven with paradise for a traveller or backpacker. Laze by the pool, swing in the hammocks and soak up the friendly atmosphere.

 

 

AirBnb it with a rental car – Whether its sunny Santa Monica or West Hollywood glam, there are some gorgeous Airbnb’s in LA. Renting a car is too easy but make sure to take a GPS to explore LA and if you are planning a road trip to Northern Cali.

 

Hotel Covell – This boutique hotel offers an apartment-like setting but has all the luxury amenities of a hotel. Each suite has its own story, from Moroccan themed to 80s aesthetic, each evoking a chapter of the fictional character George Covell’s life.

 

The Line – Decades of Korean, Latino and American heritage merge together to create LA’s only 24-hour neighbourhood. Tucked between Hollywood and downtown, the LINE LA is a haven for creative expression and exudes a rich, layered experience of urban exploration.

 

Ace Hotel – Housed in the landmark 1927 United Artists building, this hip hotel is an easy walk from The Grammy Museum, Staples Centre and Museum of Contemporary Art. With industrial-chic rooms, a restored 1920s Spanish Gothic-style theatre and a buzzing rooftop pool.