Meet the locals

As you drive into Ballina from the highway, you’ll spot its most famous resident – the Big Prawn. Built in 1989, it’s nine metres tall and weighs 35 tonnes, and is a nod to the region’s flourishing fishing industry. It was almost demolished in the 2010s, but was given a huge makeover and now stands with its pincers held proudly high. Be sure to stop for a photo.

Big Prawn, Ballina

Get close to more of Ballina’s sea life on a tour with Out of the Blue Adventures. Led by marine biologists, you can take a cruise in search of dolphins, turtles and whales (in winter) or go beneath the surface and snorkel beside these fascinating creatures. On land, visit the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. You’ll get to feed kangaroos, watch native birds in flight, hold huge reptiles and learn about the importance of conservation.

Out of the Blue Adventures, Ballina

Outdoor adventures

With more than 30 kilometres of pristine coastline and a lush hinterland carved by the waters of the Richmond River, the Ballina region is an outdoor playground. Start on the coast with a lesson from Lets Go Surfing Ballina. They can get you started on one of the quieter beaches or help you catch the legendary right break at Lennox Head, a National Surfing Reserve. The calm waters of Shaws Bay are ideal for stand-up paddleboarding or snorkelling among the seagrass. Hop on the Burns Point Ferry to find the best fishing spots in South Ballina.

Lets Go Surfing Ballina, Byron Bay - Credit: Lets Go Surfing Ballina

Killen Falls is in Tintenbar, a 20-minute drive inland from Ballina. The pretty cascade is surrounded by lush Big Scrub rainforest and has a large pool at the base, perfect for a cooling dip. The viewing platform is just a 330-metre walk from the carpark. Learn about the region’s rich Indigenous history while admiring beautiful riverside scenery along the Water Stories Walk. You can even download the Soundtrails app to hear an immersive audio guide narrated by the late Uncle Ricky Cook, a Nyangbal Elder.

Killen Falls, Tintenbar

Prefer to explore on two wheels? Ballina has an extensive network of bike trails looping around the town and river, and all the way along the coast to neighbouring Lennox Head. Pick up a bike from Ballina Byron Bike Hire and get exploring. Test your skills (or tire out the kids) on the Ballina Pump Track, a safe and fun competition-level track. Take in the serene hinterland views as you play a round on the Craig Parry-designed Teven Valley Golf Course. Keep an eye out for platypus in the freshwater creeks that run through the course.

Shared Coastal Pathway, Ballina

Arts & culture

The far north of New South Wales has long been a magnet for creative types. They’re celebrated at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery, a regional cultural hub for local artists. There’s a dynamic roster of public activities as well, from artist talks to interactive workshops. If you’re feeling inspired, get your hands dirty – quite literally – during a clay masterclass with local potter Brooke Clunie at her Red Door Studio.

Northern Rivers Community Gallery, Ballina - Credit: Emma Pinsent

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Copyright: Northern Rivers Community Gallery

Learn more about the area’s ties to the ocean at the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum. There’s a well-curated collection of historic memorabilia, including the largest collection of ship models in Australia, plus interactive displays and rare shipwreck items. Heritage of a different kind is unveiled at Crawford House Museum, set in a restored Federation home in nearby Alstonville and telling the story of life here at the end of the 19th century.  

Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum, Ballina - Credit: Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum

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Copyright: Ballina Visitor Information Centre

Farm tours & local produce

The warm coastal climate and rich volcanic soils of the Ballina hinterland create a thriving agricultural industry. Visit Summerland Farm, a working avocado and macadamia farm in Alstonville, to connect with the land on a guided tour, meet the animals, join a workshop or just relax with a long lunch under the trees. If you’re serious about your flat white, learn about the process from crop to cup at Zentveld’s Coffee Farm and Roastery near Newrybar.

 Zentveld's Coffee Farm and Roastery, Newrybar

Held every Sunday morning, the Ballina Farmers and Produce Market is the place to meet the region’s best growers and makers. There’s everything from fresh fruit and vegetables to cheese, sourdough, olives, honey, pasta and flowers. Don’t miss the famed sourdough doughnuts. Bring a picnic blanket and relax by the riverside as you indulge.

Ballina Farmers and Producers Market, Ballina - Credit: Ballina Farmers and Producers Market

Eat & drink

It’s hard to beat breakfast with an ocean view. Shelly Beach Cafe in East Ballina serves up everything from a classic bacon and egg roll to a colourful Japanese brekkie bowl and rich passionfruit panna cotta. Just around the corner on Lighthouse Beach is Capiche pairs coastal Italian cuisine with sparkling sunsets. For the best steak and local seafood head Saltbush Bar & Grill on the main street overlooking the river.

Capiche Restaurant, East Ballina - Credit: Capiche

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Copyright: Ballina Visitor Information Centre

Relax over afternoon drinks and live music at the newly renovated Shaws Bay Hotel, set right on the edge of the water. The beer garden is dog and kid friendly too. Seven Mile Brewing Co is an independent craft brewery set next to the airport. Visit on the weekends to sip a Lennox Larger or Wildling Ginger Beer along with eats from local food trucks.

Shaws Bay Hotel, East Ballina - Credit: Parras Hospitality PTY LTD

Where to stay

You’re going to want to linger a little longer in Ballina, so luckily there are plenty of places to stay. For a little luxury, choose one of the seven villas at The Brooklet. Tucked in a quiet pocket of the hinterland, it’s an adults’ only retreat complete with heated pool, tennis court, sauna, hot tub and organic gardens. Ballina Beach Nature Resort is set between the beach and the river and has options for everyone, with fun family facilities and quiet corners. Or just pitch a tent at the peaceful Flat Rock Tent Park and get away from it all.

The Brooklet, Brooklet - Credit: The Brooklet

Getting there

Ballina is just under eight hours’ drive north from Sydney or a two-hour drive south from Brisbane. Make a road trip of it and follow the Legendary Pacific Coast route, giving yourself four days to meander along the Pacific Highway exploring sea caves, meeting local wildlife, hiking lush rainforest and paddling through aquamarine waters.  The North Coast train line runs between Sydney and Casino, with a coach transfer to Ballina. The whole trip takes around 13 hours. You can fly into Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, less than 10 minutes from the centre of town. There are regular direct flights from Sydney and Melbourne.