Things to Do in Ballina

Table of Contents

A fun guide to exploring beautiful Ballina

There's so much waiting for you to discover in this Far North Coast NSW haven. Pristine beaches, one-of-a-kind stores and countless hiking trails are just some of the things to do in Ballina when you're here. Set up at Reflections Ballina and don't forget to pack your towel, walking shoes and snacks to be ready for your Northern Rivers adventure.

Get in touch with nature at Ballina & Shaws Bay

Surfing and swimming

The stretch of coastline that Ballina hugs is a wonderland for water-based fun. Swim, kayak or surf your way around local beaches – our top picks are Shelly or Lighthouse Beach – or chill out in Flat Rock Beach's calming rock pools. Planning a day at the beach is one of the easiest things to do in Ballina for families, especially with a picnic in tow.

Fishing and boating

One of the best things to do in Ballina is choose from one of the many land-based fishing spots to catch your dinner! If you don't want to cast a line into the ocean, you can set up along the banks of the Richmond River and try your luck. Look out for flathead, bream, whiting, and mangrove jack, which tend to nibble most lines.

On the water

The river's calm waters and its creeks also set the scene for fun family days, with options for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. Prefer something more leisurely? How about a lazy river cruise around Ballina Island with Out of the Blue Adventures?

Get up close and personal with wildlife

If immersing yourself in the local wildlife is on the agenda, there are a range of different ways to do it. Our pick for things to do in Ballina at night: book an after-dark tour with Vision Walks Eco Tours. You'll wear night-vision goggles and dark clothing (without a torch, too) to blend in and get closer to local creatures, like leaf-tailed geckos and tawny frogmouths.

Alternatively, take the kids to nearby Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary during the day. There's a water splash park as well as opportunities to experience koalas, snakes and other critters.

Top walks and hikes

If you're looking for free things to do in Ballina, nothing beats hitting the pavement for a stroll. In town, you can explore the Shaws Bay North Wall coastal walk or head along the coast up to Lennox Head. But if you want to check out an ancient rainforest, make your way to Nightcap National Park and do the Minyon Falls Loop (it's sure to impress even the most loyal homebody!).

Pack a picnic and take a hike to magical Minyon Falls, Protester Falls, or follow the Big Scrub Loop Walk.

Ballina’s top attractions

The Big Prawn

On Australia's list of 'big tourist attractions', the Big Prawn is a must-see. As one of the more unusual things to do in Ballina, it's hard to miss, standing at nine metres high and weighing more than 35 tonnes.

Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum

For things to do in Ballina with kids, check out the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum. They've got the largest collection of model ships in Australia and are open every day, making it a great option in the cooler months.

Aboriginal Cultural Ways

Learn about Ballina's rich Aboriginal cultural heritage in the stunning Aboriginal Cultural Ways coastal walk. Scan QR codes dotted along the path to listen to audio stories while you admire the scenery on foot.

Family fun at Ballina Memorial Pool and Waterslides

Sure, the Big Prawn is a novelty, but when it comes to Ballina activities for kids, you can’t beat waterslides. With two pools and two giant waterslides at Ballina Memorial Pool, there’s plenty of wet and wild action for all the family.

More way to enjoy Ballina

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Attractions

Ballina Waterslides

1.51km from park

Dive into family fun at Ballina Waterslides, located within the Ballina Memorial Pool and overlooking the picturesque Richmond River....

Things to Do in Ballina

A fun guide to exploring beautiful Ballina

Get in touch with nature at Ballina & Shaws Bay

Surfing and swimming

Fishing and boating

On the water

Get up close and personal with wildlife

Top walks and hikes

Ballina’s top attractions

The Big Prawn

Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum

Aboriginal Cultural Ways

Family fun at Ballina Memorial Pool and Waterslides

More way to enjoy Ballina

Where to eat and drink in Ballina

Delicious breakfast and brunch spots

Popular lunch and dinner restaurants

Ballina pubs and live music

More food and drink options in Ballina

Nearby Activities

Enjoy a market-lovers paradise

Seasonal activities & events

Summer fun

Winter warmers

Make Ballina your next holiday destination!

Ballina Holiday Inspiration

Ways to stay in Ballina