How to experience Byron Bay according to your personality

Often, “in the heart of Byron Bay” means “within 15 kilometres of Byron Bay” or even “in a neighbouring town.” But at 28 Degrees Guesthouse, there’s no bending of the truth—it’s just two blocks from the beach and one from the town centre.

Owner and interior designer Deborah Garske has a way of making guests feel right at home. Over a cup of slow-drip coffee (locally roasted, of course), I learn why: 

“When I built 28 Degrees, I was recovering from chemotherapy,” says Garske. “I had stage-four Hodgkin’s lymphoma and was told I had two weeks to live. I came up to Byron Bay and bought this house.”

Garske’s 94-year-old neighbour played a pivotal role in her recovery, bringing tea, jam drops, and companionship after chemotherapy sessions. “Gloria was really my best friend when I got here. She still encourages me to slow down. She’s beautiful.”

Now in remission, Garske has infused this warmth and kindness into every corner of the guesthouse. The newly opened wing, once the family home where she raised her children, now welcomes guests with a sense of calm and comfort—what she calls “barefoot luxury”.

Byron Bay might be known for its laid-back, tune-in, drop-out vibe but at 28 Degrees, how you experience the town depends entirely on your personality. Whether you’re here to recharge, explore or connect, there’s a version of Byron waiting for you. Here’s how to do it right.

You’re the ‘local’

Stay: Luxury plunge pool room
Do: Solo dine, vintage shop

I’d been to “The Bay” (drop “Byron” to sound like a local) before but had always felt like an outsider—until I stayed at 28 Degrees. I didn’t need Google Maps and didn’t so much as look at my car keys. I walked to Wategos for a swim, shopped for overalls at Miss Brown Vintage, dined solo at a local restaurant and wandered my way back effortlessly.

Even within the walls of the guesthouse, I felt fully immersed in my new lifestyle (for the weekend).

“I wanted to support local businesses,” Garske says. “The books are from The Book Room, the coffee from Moonshine in Federal, and the fruit for the granola and berry compote comes from the farmer’s market every Thursday. The teas are organic, made right here in Byron. I wanted everyone to get a taste of Byron just by coming here.”

Insider info: Happy Days or Tones in Byron Bay, Domo in Federal, Karkalla on Country in Myocum

You’re here to make friends

Stay: Main luxury room
Do: Make new connections over your morning coffee

The main house has a way of bringing people together. I walked in on a Sunday night to find fifteen women gathered in the kitchen and around the plunge pool chatting like old friends—yet each had her own quiet space to retreat to afterward. 

“I looked around at one point and thought, ‘Pinch me.’ I’m so grateful I pursued this,” says Garske. “We have people who met in this house and now holiday together, one year here, one abroad. They fight over the main bedroom, of course.”

“A lot of the people that come to our retreats are women who have families, who have left behind their children and they are already feeling guilty for going away. That’s why I created something that’s luxurious for women, and they can really nurture themselves.” 

Get involved: Keep an eye out for the next retreat

You’re the Outdoor Type

Stay: Luxury lighthouse room
Do: Run to Walgun, swim at Wategos

Can you stay in the Lighthouse Room and not venture to the lighthouse? I couldn’t. Though 28 Degrees has a no-kids policy – and my children were not in tow – I still woke up early, out of habit. I ran to the lighthouse I’d seen from my bath the night before and stood at the most easterly point of Australia, taking it all in.

The climb to Cape Byron Lighthouse, traditionally known as Walgun, is spectacular. Whether you’re here for a sunrise view or a soak, you’re in the right place.

“I wanted a place where people could truly recharge,” Garske says. “Whether they’re going through a breakup, a health issue or just burnout, we give them permission to let go.”

Further afield: Lake Ainsworth at Lennox Head, Minyon Falls in Whian Whian

Art by Norfolk Island artist Sue Pearson

You’re a ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign in human form

Stay: The Villa
Do: Very little

28 Degrees isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to slow down. It’s all the comforts of home—minus the life admin. Take a bath, order in, stay in bed.

“The name 28 Degrees reflects its latitude from Byron Bay to Norfolk Island, where I grew up,” says Garske “That’s why you’ll find artwork by Sue Pearson, whose features Norfolk pines and native birds, capturing the spirit of my island home.” 

Here, every piece of furniture has a purpose, every piece of art has a story. “I picked these up at a vintage store near Mackay,” says Garske, referring to a series of vibrant works. “I just love this raw energy. They told me a ‘mad-woman’ painted them after discovering her husband’s infidelity.”

In contrast to this story, Garske notes that the effect of the landscape and the guesthouse’s peaceful atmosphere can revive connections. “You’ll see people come in stressed, barely looking at each other. Two days later, they’re hand-in-hand, totally relaxed.”

Order in: Yullis, The Smoking Camel

I’ve been to Byron Bay a few times before and always felt like an outsider, this time felt different. Maybe it was the house-made granola, the view from my room or the fresh air at Australia’s most easterly point. Whatever it was, 28 Degrees had me feeling rested, restored and ready to tune back in.

“You never know what’s going on in people’s lives,” Garske says. “I just want them to feel as comfortable as possible.”

If barefoot luxury is your kind of luxury, 28 Degrees in Byron Bay offers the perfect escape, a 30 minute drive from Ballina Airport or 45 minute drive from Gold Coast Airport. Here, you’ll find a what you need, nestled in the heart of one of Australia’s most iconic coastal towns.

This article is based on a gifted media stay.