With a reputation as a celebrity hot spot, particularly in Byron Bay, the region is again proving popular this summer, with several famous faces already being spotted around the region.

Governor General Quentin Bryce has been seen in Byron Bay. It is understood she is staying at an upmarket property in Lighthouse Road.

Although The Northern Star cannot quite imagine Ms Bryce learning to surf at The Pass, we are sure she would enjoy the many fine restaurants on offer.

Hawaiian-born singer-songwriter Jack Johnson has a strong affinity with the area and even owns a property in Lennox Head.

He has been seen on the streets of Byron Bay in recent days but it is not known how long the keen surfer will be in town.

No doubt he is hoping for some sunshine and for the swell to pick up a little so he can catch a few waves before he leaves.

Hollywood hottie Simon Baker has returned to his old stamping ground for the festive season.

It is believed he will spend the next month around Lennox Head, where his mum still lives, and also at his own place in Nashua.

Baker bought the 6.8ha riverside property for $1.5 million last summer.

The former Ballina High School student is now one of Australia’s most famous actors, starring in the hit show The Mentalist.

It is rumoured Baker will soon become one of the highest-paid actors on US television when he signs a deal to stay on as Mentalist lead, Patrick Jane, supposedly worth $US30 million for three years, or $430,000 an episode.

He has been in Lennox Head for a few weeks and participated in a recent charity night in Ballina with actress Claudia Karvan.

While no other celebrities have been spotted yet, it’s only early days.

Last summer, the region was full of A-list actors, including Aussie icon Bryan Brown, who dined at the Bangalow Hotel.

Logie-winning TV presenter Tom Williams, of Dancing With The Stars fame, was seen in The Rails at Byron Bay, as was whale activist and famous little-sister Mimi Macpherson.

Home and Away beauty Jodi Gordon shopped at upmarket boutiques in Byron Bay.

Comedian Hamish Blake, Australian Idol winner Stan Walker and Wolfmother’s Andrew Stockdale were also seen in the area last summer.