Bluesfest is one of Australia’s most popular and longest-running music festivals, held annually over the Easter long weekend in Byron Bay, New South Wales.
The world-famous festival has been a staple of the Australian music scene since 1990 and attracts over 100,000 punters each year.
Known for its diverse lineup of international and Australian acts spanning across multiple genres, including blues, roots, rock, Bluesfest has seen a slew of music legends such as Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, John Mayer and Patti Smith hit the stage over the years.
With this year’s star-studded lineup seeing major acts like Gang of Youths, Paolo Nutini, and Tash Sultana on the bill, there’s no doubt that Bluesfest 2023 is going to be one to remember.
In addition to the world-class music, Bluesfest also offers punters a wide range of food and entertainment options, including a dedicated kids’ zone, artisan markets, and multiple stages featuring live performances throughout the day and night.
There’s also a huge range of accommodation options available to festival-goers, so you can rest easy in between sets.
So whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a premium camping package with all the bells and whistles, Bluesfest has something for everyone.
On-Site Accommodation: Camping & Glamping
On-site accommodation at Bluesfest is a popular option for those who want to be close to the action.
There’s a variety of options available, from basic camping to glamping with all the creature comforts.
If you’re on a budget, the basic camping option is perfect. You’ll have access to all the amenities you need, like showers and toilets, and can pitch your tent wherever you like.
You’ll also be able to fuel up with a hot breakfast, coffee, milk, and ice at the campers cafe, and there are also toilets and showers available.
If you’re planning on coming empty-handed, no need to stress. You can hire bedding and table and chairs from Tent City here.
For some people, camping isn’t their thing. We get it, so if the idea of a blow-up mattress and sleeping bag makes you shudder, don’t worry, we have you covered. Covered, that is, in luxury linen with fresh towels and a delicious mattress and pillow to lay your dance-weary bones at the end of the night. Welcome to Glamping!
The Glamping tent also includes a floor rug, a bed base, a side table, a chair, toiletries on arrival, and a clothes hook. Glampers have access to VIP toilets and showers, BBQ facilities, a communal lounge, and a coffee and tea station.
And there are Glamping options for any combo, including in Twin (2 x singles), Triple (1 x queen and 1 x single), Triple (3 x singles), and Quad (2 x Queen).
You can purchase camping, glamping and large-vehicle camping passes here.
Budget-Friendly Accommodation
Don’t want to break the bank on accommodation? Fear not, we’ve got you covered with this roundup of budget-friendly options that will leave you with plenty of cash left over for food and drinks at the festival.
Arts Factory Lodge
Located in the heart of Byron Bay, the Arts Factory Lodge is a popular choice among budget-conscious travellers.
Offering a range of accommodation options from dorms to private rooms, this laid-back hostel has a bohemian vibe and plenty of on-site amenities, including a swimming pool, hammocks, and a cafe.
They even have a range of activities for guests including didgeridoo making, yoga and more.
Prices start at $50 per night for a dorm bed.
Byron Bay Holiday Park
Byron Bay Holiday Park offers a range of camping and caravan sites, as well as cabins and villas.
The park is just a short drive from the festival site and has plenty of on-site facilities, including a swimming pool, barbecue area, and playground and is just a stone’s throw away from Tallow Beach and just five minutes from the town centre.
The budget-friendly unpowered campsites also give you access to cooking facilities in the camp kitchen, bathroom amenities, a coin-operated laundry, and a communal TV room.
Prices start at $96 per night for an unpowered camping site if you book early.
Backpackers Inn on the Beach
Backpackers Inn on the Beach is a great option for those who want to stay in a social environment that’s packed with good vibes and great people.
The hostel is located just a short walk from the beach and has a range of accommodation options, including dorms, private rooms, and self-contained apartments.
It also features a communal kitchen and lounge area, as well as a swimming pool and free Wi-Fi.
Prices start at $120 per night for a dorm bed.
Premium & Luxury Accommodation
Whether you’re looking for a sprawling eco-resort or a one-of-a-kind converted church, these premium properties are sure to make you feel pampered and refreshed, making your festival experience one to remember.
Elements of Byron
Located just a short drive from the festival site, Elements of Byron is a stunning, eco-conscious resort set on 22 acres of lush gardens right on the beachfront.
The resort offers a range of accommodation options, including luxurious villas and suites, with prices starting at $622 per night for a Studio Apartment.
Crystalbrook Byron
Nestled within 45 acres of subtropical rainforest, Crystalbrook Byron is a tranquil retreat just a short drive from the festival site.
The resort features stylish, spacious suites that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings, and boasts complimentary yoga, free wifi, a day spa, and free bikes.
Prices start at $705 per night for the Rainforest Luxe Suite.
Raes on Wategos
If you’re looking for something a little more intimate between festival celebrations, Raes on Wategos is the perfect choice.
A boutique retreat with personalised service, Raes provides an elegant, opulent and exceptionally private space where you can lose yourself in the ultimate beachfront escape.
It’s so popular that it has seen star-studded guests such as Tom Cruise, Russell Crowe, Keith Richards and Elle Macpherson stay in the luxury location.
Prices start at $1,650 per night for a two-level villa.
Air BnB
If you’re looking for a unique and affordable accommodation option Airbnb has got you covered – and you may find that there are some affordable deals across the board at the moment.
Rain Forest Retreat
The Rain Forest Retreat is a quaint, private, self-contained cottage studio located on five acres with just one other house on the property.
The cottage is an oasis of peace and tranquillity, providing a welcome retreat after a day at Bluesfest and is only a very short drive to the CBD.
Guests will also be able to enjoy the beauty of nature, with birds always singing and wallabies often visiting at dawn and dusk.
Prices for Bluesfest weekend are $1,328.59
Sheoak Studio in Suffolk Park
If you’re happy to stay just outside the hustle and bustle of main Byron Bay, this Suffolk Park Apartment is perfect for recharging after a big day at the festival.
The detached studio apartment has everything you need and is just a seven minute walk to Suffolk’s pub, shops, and restaurants, a 15 min walk to the beach, and a 10 min drive to Byron Bay.
Prices for Bluesfest weekend are $1,247.72
Rainforest Guest Retreat
Located just 3km from Byron Bay on a rural road in the foothills, the Rainforest Guest Retreat is surrounded by stunning rainforests, birds, farmland & country lanes.
Meander out from your queen bed to your deck to take in the rainforest view and beautiful pool area between festival days, and enjoy a large gorgeous bathroom that has a large bath with picturesque treetop views.
Prices for Bluesfest weekend are $1,386.35
