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Reflections Shaws Bay and Ballina

Ballina Itinerary Ideas

3 days in Ballina

Planning your Ballina itinerary? Whether you’re here for the pristine beaches, scrumptious food, or a relaxed long weekend, there’s plenty here to fill your days. To get you started, here’s a 3-day itinerary so you don't miss a beat, full of great spots to eat, adventures to remember and one Big Prawn.


Day 1: Make a splash!

Kick off your day with a latte at Shelly Beach Cafe to watch the sunrise over the Pacific. You're in a prime position to make your way down to Shelly Beach for a swim, surf or paddle (depending on your mood). Or linger for a while and enjoy a relaxed breakfast while people-watching.

Treat yourself to lunch at Kelp restaurant and make your way over to Lighthouse Beach for an afternoon of lounging, catching up on reading or your favourite podcast. Then, once the sun starts to set, tuck into a delicious bowl of freshly made pasta at Capiche.

Day 2: Sightsee and relax by the river

No Ballina itinerary is complete without a pit stop at the world-famous Big Prawn. This giant crustacean is perfect for the family photo album and is virtually across the road from The Bigger Than Average Pineapple, perhaps a nod to the longstanding rivalry between Queensland and New South Wales.

After you've filled your eyes (and camera roll) with big sights, it's time to pump the brakes and find a spot by the Richmond River. Pick up picnic supplies from a local market if possible, and unroll the rug to set up at the many parks, like Riverside Park.

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Day 3: Food, glorious food

On your last day in Ballina, it's time to go on a bit of a culinary adventure. Start your day down on River Street and take your pick of cafes for breakfast or brunch. Don't fill up on eggs benny because other delights await, like the Wharf Bar & Restaurant and Hey Lady Bar & Diner.

Take a stroll around downtown Ballina to find your souvenirs, and when you've rebuilt an appetite, hit either Thai By Night or La Cucina Di Vino for dinner. Soak up the last of the day's rays down by the river before calling it a night and heading back to pack at Reflections Ballina.

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If you fancy a short drive north, there are lots of other spots in nearby Lennox Head and, of course, Byron Bay. Known for its fine dining and farm-to-table ethos, Far North Coast New South Wales will spoil you with seafood, local produce and coastal views.



Things to do in Ballina

If beaches, restaurants and forest walks excite you, then you'll have plenty of things to do in Ballina. As the gateway to the Northern Rivers, it boasts a nice balance of indoor and outdoor activities all year round. There's something for every member of the family, including a Big Prawn and a maritime museum.

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Ballina cycling

Ballina Events and Attractions

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Frequently asked questions

Didn’t find what you were looking for? We’re here to help. Get in touch here.

What can I do in Ballina, NSW on a rainy day?

When it rains, there are plenty of options for what to do in Ballina. Catch a movie at Ballina Cinema, knock down some pins at the local bowling alley, or visit the nearby Stone and Wood brewery for a beer and a bite. With mostly mild weather year-round, don't let a little wet weather get in the way of your best laid plans!


What time is the Ballina market on Sunday?

The Ballina Farmers & Producers Market is every Sunday from 7 am to 11 am. Located in Commemoration Park, it's the perfect place to go for fresh fruit and vegetables, handmade crafts, and to hear live music.


How many days should I spend in Ballina?

To take full advantage of all that Ballina has to offer, you might like to start with our 3-day itinerary above. A long weekend is the perfect way to get a taste of Far North Coast NSW, but if you want to stay longer, Reflections Ballina makes a great home base for your next break.

Ways to stay in Ballina