Things to do in Ballina

While neighbouring Byron Bay often steals the limelight, laidback Ballina has a unique seaside charm all its own. Along with the endless beaches and a beautiful coastal path that links it to Lennox Head, there’s the Richmond River which carves right through town. That means great fishing, fantastic seafood (hint: Ballina is home to the Big Prawn) and water views everywhere. Throw in some epic surf breaks, fun waterslides for the kids and great camping options. Plus, the waterfalls and lush rainforest of the gorgeous Ballina/Byron hinterland on its doorstep, and what’s not to love about Ballina?

Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, outdoor adventure or fun for all the family. Here’s a taste of things to do in Ballina and its surrounds.

Ballina activities: Back to nature

Fishing and boating

It’s fair to say that Ballina, with its setting on the banks of the Richmond River is a fisherman’s dream. Expect to catch bream, whiting, flathead, jewfish, trevally and more. Cast a line from the banks of the river, the breakwall or a rocky headland.

If fishing from a tinny is more your style there’s several boat ramps to choose from, including one right opposite Reflections Ballina. Super handy on a Ballina camping holiday!

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

Surfing and swimming

Ballina has uncrowded beaches of golden sand either side of the river mouth. Surfers will always find a wave on Lighthouse Beach and Flat Rock Beach. While the kids will have a blast building sandcastles and playing in the rock pools at Shelly Beach.

Other beaches include dog-friendly Sharpes Beach, and Shaws Bay with its pretty cove and calm shallow water ideal for the little ones. For more info on Ballina’s beaches check out discoverballina.com.au.

Hiking and nature walks

Looking for free things to do in Ballina? Hit the Coastal Recreational Path on foot or by bicycle for million-dollar ocean views all the way to Lennox Head. If 12kms feels like too much effort, you can just do a part of it. Make sure to check out the Aboriginal Cultural Ways section to learn about traditional indigenous culture in these parts.

Into history? The 3km Ballina Historic Waterfront Trail takes in heritage sites around town.

More in the mood for giant trees, pristine rainforest and stunning waterfalls? Nearby Nightcap National Park has it all. Pack a picnic and take a hike to magical Minyon Falls, Protester Falls, or follow the Big Scrub Loop Walk.

Ballina’s top attractions

Take a selfie at The Big Prawn

Playing into our love of ‘big things’ in Australia, there is no missing the nine-metre-high Big Prawn on the road to town. After the obligatory selfies, pick up some of Ballina’s famous king prawns down the road at Ballina Fishermen's Co-op or Northern Rivers Seafood. You will find tasty fish and chips here too, so that’s lunch sorted!

Family fun at Ballina Memorial Pool and Waterslides

Sure, the Big Prawn is a novelty, but when it comes to Ballina activitie sfor 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.

Dive deep at Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum

You don’t need to be a maritime buff to appreciate this fascinating collection of memorabilia, which includes 250 model ships. For more details check the website at ballinamaritimemuseum.org.

Where to eat and drink in Ballina

Ballina restaurants

Looking to splurge on seafood and signature cocktails? Treat yourselves to a night out at Saltbush Waterfront Bar & Grill.

Authentic Italian food is always a good idea. Try La Cucina Divino overlooking the boat harbour.

Take a short drive up to Harvest Newyrbar, for a fantastic farm to table meal in beautiful rustic surrounds. There is a charming cafe here too, plus a well-stocked deli and historic bakery (the sourdough loaves are amazing.)

Ballina pubs and live music

For generous pub grub, fun trivia nights and dog friendly ambience head to Henry Rous Tavern. Check henryrous.com.au to see what’s on.

From blues nights to comedy gigs and tribute bands, Ballina RSL is always lively.

Ballina cafes

Nestled in the sand dunes, Shelly Beach Cafe is a relaxed and friendly spot right on the coastal walk. Plus, there’s a kid’s menu to tempt even the fussiest of eaters.

In the mood for something light and healthy? Belle Central has seriously yummy breakfasts with lots of gluten free and vegetarian choices.

Peaceful gardens are pet friendly at the casual yet classy heritage-listed Gallery Cafe Ballina

Fancy fresh oysters for dinner? Simply click and collect at Richmond Oysters. Too easy!

Key word requirement: Ballina restaurants, Ballina pubs, Ballina cafes

Visit a local market

The Northern Rivers has the most vibrant markets in Australia, with something on every weekend.

Bangalow Market (fourth Sunday each month) is the closest to Ballina, and one of the most atmospheric with great food and live music. Shop for artisanal jewellery, arts and crafts, vintage clothing, and local produce. Check this handy market guide to find out what’s on and where.

Ballina: A year-round destination

The surf is always up in Ballina, and the fish are always biting. Temperatures are mild enough that you can swim most of the year, but you will probably want to wear a wetsuit in June and July. Here are some ideas for things to see and do in winter in Ballina.

Meet the wildlife

The Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary nearby Knockrow, has lots of wildlife, including kangaroos and koalas and great school holiday programs. Or head to Summerland Farm to meet the farm animals and pick up local macadamia products.

Museums and galleries

The Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum is the best known of Ballina’s cultural spots but is not the only one. The Northern Rivers Community Gallery is always worth a look, as is Crawford House Museum in nearby Alstonville.

Keep this guide to museums, galleries, and heritage sites up your sleeve for a cold or rainy day.

Day tripping

Take a drive to explore the Northern Rivers hinterland, with its rolling hills, lush rainforest, quirky villages, and incredible national parks.

Events

Check discoverballina.com.au for the latest in what’s going on, and for details on annual events like the North Coast Show ’N’ Shine (February) and the Rainbow Region Dragon Boat Regatta (August.)

So what are you waiting for?

A top holiday spot set against a backdrop of sweeping ocean beaches and picturesque hinterland, there are so many things to do in Ballina. So, what are you waiting for? From chilled beach holidays to casual weekend getaways to outdoor adventures, Reflections Ballina has your Ballina camping holiday covered. Book online now.