Adventure brief
Full Barrel Trip
Discover Byron Bay’s vibrant craft beer and spirit scene on the Full Barrel Trip by Behind The Barrel. This six-hour tasting tour visits top breweries and distilleries, pairing curated drinks with local flavors and a scenic backdrop.
Byron Bay’s coastal charm is renowned for its sweeping ocean views and vibrant outdoor lifestyle, but its craft beer and spirits scene is equally compelling. Behind The Barrel has tapped into this rising wave of local breweries and distilleries with their Full Barrel Trip, a six-hour guided journey that stretches the palate and introduces travelers to some of the region’s most innovative producers. Starting at 11 a.m., this immersive experience moves guests through three to four top-tier venues, including celebrated names like Stone and Wood Brewery, Wandana Brewery, Lord Byron Distillery, and Cape Byron Distillery.
Each stop offers tasting paddles featuring 3-4 samples, giving participants a deep dive into the layered profiles of boutique beers and handcrafted spirits. For those who prefer alternatives beyond beer, cider, seltzer, ginger beer, and wine substitutes ensure everyone’s preferences are met. Lunch is woven into the day, grounding the tasting adventure with fresh, local fare that complements the bold flavors sampled.
Travel is comfortably handled with pickup and drop-off options in Byron Bay, Lennox Head, or Ballina, making the trip accessible for solo wanderers or groups ready to mingle and forge new friendships. Beyond the glass, this tour stands out for its connection to Byron Bay’s evolving craft culture and the scenic Northern Rivers region, where subtropical flora colors the backdrop and the ocean’s salty breezes refresh the spirit between sips. The guides share insights into the brewing and distilling craft, as well as the challenges small producers face in this burgeoning but competitive market.
Behind The Barrel’s flexible routes respond to changing brewery schedules and new releases, ensuring each experience feels personalized and up-to-date. Whether you’re starting your day chasing waves or winding down, the Full Barrel Trip offers a spirited alternative to standard outdoor tours by blending local craftsmanship with an authentic taste of Byron Bay’s offbeat adventure.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Designated driver or transport includedessential
Behind The Barrel provides pickup and drop-off, so no need to worry about driving after tastings.
- 02Notify preferences in advanceinfo
Non-beer drinkers can request cider, seltzer, or wine alternatives when booking.
- 03Stay hydrated throughoutessential
Drink water between tastings to keep your palate fresh and avoid dehydration.
- 04Wear comfortable shoesinfo
You’ll be walking and standing at several venues, so choose supportive, casual footwear.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable walking shoes
Supportive footwear makes moving between venues easy and enjoyable.
EssentialReusable water bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial during tastings.
EssentialLight rain jacket
Helpful for unexpected showers common in spring.
springSun protection (hat & sunscreen)
Protect yourself from strong Australian sun during outdoor stops.
summerEssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Nightcap at a small local brewery in Lennox Head, Trail walk around Cape Byron Lighthouse before or after the trip
Local fauna
Rainbow lorikeets in the nearby bushland, Eastern water dragons along creek edges
Historic heritage
Byron Bay’s brewing tradition grew significantly in the 21st century as local producers embraced sustainability and native ingredients.
Mindful exploration
Behind The Barrel supports responsible alcohol consumption and collaborates with venues committed to eco-friendly practices.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Patio areas overlooking coastal bushland, Distillery copper stills and barrels, Craft beer taps and tasting flights
- Subjects
- Colorful craft brews, Rustic brewery interiors, Scenic coastal vegetation
- Best times
- Late morning during kickoff, Golden hour at Cape Byron nearby, Early afternoon at outdoor brewery gardens
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is transportation included in the Full Barrel Trip?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided from Byron Bay, Lennox Head, or Ballina.
Can non-beer drinkers participate?
Absolutely! You can substitute beer tastings for cider, seltzer, ginger beer, or wine.
Are meals included in the trip?
Yes, a delicious lunch is part of the experience to complement the tastings.
Can I book the Full Barrel Trip as a private tour?
Yes, private group tours are available by request via email.
How many tastings will I experience?
You’ll enjoy 3-4 tastings at each of 3-4 venues, totaling around a dozen samples.
Are there restrictions on age or ID requirements?
All participants must be 18 years or older and provide valid ID.