Ballina Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Ballina
Ballina
Ballina
Ballina
Ballina

Sitting astride the gentle waters of the Richmond River, this North Coast hub has fantastic beaches, great surf breaks, tropical rainforests and hinterland beauty.

Experience the coastal and hinterland charm of Ballina, a major town and region in the Northern Rivers area of New South Wales. With unbeatable beaches and superb waters of the Richmond River, Ballina is a favourite spot for family getaways and watersports adventure.

Go boating and fishing in the magnificent river to experience Ballina’s plentiful waters. Find out about the town’s history at the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum. Relax in casual cafés or enjoy fresh produce direct from hinterland farms at Ballina’s restaurants and specialty stores.

Superb beaches are one of Ballina’s biggest draws. Investigate the patrolled waters of Shelly Beach or the popular Lighthouse Beach. Enjoy the tranquil shores and pretty surroundings of Shaws Bay Lagoon. Explore the coastline to find secret coves and excellent surf. Lennox Head is popular among surfing aficionados, while the waterslides at Ballina Water Park are a hit with younger visitors. From the shore or aboard a whale-watching charter boat, watch for humpback whales migrating along the coastline between June and November.

Make your way to Ballina’s main town to explore its laid-back streets. Have a meal in a waterfront café or check out the range of boutique stores. Explore the historic buildings and heritage charm of Wardell, Alstonville, Newrybar and Tintenbar. Knockrow is home to the family-friendly Macadamia Castle and the gateway to the Hinterland Way scenic route.

The cosy villages around South Ballina are ideal for experiencing the region’s natural beauty. Go birdwatching or ride on horseback along the beach. Cross the picturesque mouth of the Richmond River by taking the car ferry from Burns Point. River cruises provide an interesting insight into the Richmond River’s history.

Reach Ballina via the regional air hub of Ballina Byron Gateway Airport. Ballina has a wide variety of accommodation, including waterfront hotels. With Byron Bay about 45 minutes away by car, Ballina is a fantastic addition to your North Coast road-trip itinerary.

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Our guide on where to stay in Ballina

Find the best Ballina areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ballina
Learn more about Ballina

Lennox Head

Travellers come to Lennox Head for its beaches, and you can see top attractions like Lennox Head Beach and Seven Mile Beach while you're in town.

East Ballina

East Ballina is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Lighthouse Beach and Ballina Golf Club.

North Creek

North Creek is known for its stunning beaches, and with sights like Lennox Head Beach and Seven Mile Beach, you won't get bored spending a day wandering around this part of Ballina.

Ballina Central

While visiting Ballina Central, you might make a stop by sights like Ballina Fair Shopping Centre and Ballina Racecourse.

Skennars Head

If you're spending some time in Skennars Head, Sharpe's Beach and Angels Beach are top sights worth seeing.

Ballina Byron Islander Resort and Conference Centre

Ballina Byron Islander Resort and Conference Centre

4 out of 5
1 Ronan Place West Ballina NSW
The price is NZ$159 per night from 23 June to 24 June
NZ$159
23 June - 24 June
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Ballina. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (691 reviews)
"We were so warmly welcomed by the lovely couple on reception yesterday evening - it was a great start to our stay. We both slept well. We will be back for sure (when next back in Oz!) Thank you xx"

Reviewed on 19 June 2026

Ballina Byron Islander Resort and Conference Centre
Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron

Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron

4.5 out of 5
2 Martin Street Ballina NSW
The price is NZ$299 per night from 23 June to 24 June
NZ$299
23 June - 24 June
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this luxury hotel in Ballina. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in their reviews. ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,002 reviews)
"Great facility, great central location and great views"

Reviewed on 20 June 2026

Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron
Reflections Lennox Head - Holiday park

Reflections Lennox Head - Holiday park

3 out of 5
Cnr Ross Street & Pacific Parade Lennox Head NSW
Stay at this beach holiday park in Ballina. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a beach locale. Popular attractions Lennox Head Beach and Lake Ainsworth Sport ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (119 reviews)
"Very clean and very comfortable bed"

Reviewed on 30 May 2026

Reflections Lennox Head - Holiday park
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Santa Fe Motel & Holiday Units

Santa Fe Motel & Holiday Units

3 out of 5
8 Byron Street Lennox Head NSW
Stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Ballina. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a garden. Popular attractions Lennox Head Beach and Seven Mile Beach ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (290 reviews)
"Slightly dated motel but ok for night or two . Few minutes walk to Lennox head front easily drive to Byron bay"

Reviewed on 26 May 2026

Santa Fe Motel & Holiday Units
Lennox Beach Resort

Lennox Beach Resort

4 out of 5
7 Park Lane Lennox Head NSW
Stay at this aparthotel in Ballina. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Lennox Head Beach and Pat Morton Lookout are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (467 reviews)
"Perfect location"

Reviewed on 3 June 2026

Lennox Beach Resort
Grandview Apartments Ballina

Grandview Apartments Ballina

4 out of 5
3-7 Grand View Street East Ballina NSW
Stay at this beach apartment in Ballina. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a fitness centre. Popular attractions Shelly Beach and Lighthouse Beach are located ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (134 reviews)
"Good size premises, great living area, good size kitchen with all needed utensils. Bed was just a queen but quite firm and comfortable. Good size shower with good water pressure. Did have an issue with the TV not having a power cord, but the staff were able to rectify immediately. No foxtel as advertised, ..."

Reviewed on 15 June 2026

Grandview Apartments Ballina
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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