Transport
Nestled on the stunning North Coast of NSW, Ballina is just 30 mins south of Byron Bay, 1 hour south of the Gold Coast and an 8 hour drive north or just over an hour flight from Sydney.
Scenic drives along the Pacific or Bruxner Highways make arriving by car a breeze. Once here, getting around is effortless. Hire a car to explore the hinterland, hop on local buses, or cycle the picturesque coastal paths. Taxis and ubers are readily available, and walking is perfect for soaking up the relaxed coastal vibe.
However you choose to travel, every journey here is part of the experience.
Travel by air
Get here quicker .... Fly direct!
The Ballina Byron Gateway Airport is located five kilometres from Ballina's CBD and is serviced daily by regional and national carriers including Jetstar, Qantas & Virgin Australia.
Direct flights are available to and from Sydney & Melbourne. With all the facilities you need in an easy to use terminal and so close to Ballina, the airport is the best way to start or end your journey to the region.
Travel by road
Ballina is conveniently located at the intersection of the Pacific and Bruxner Highways. Approximate distances and drive times include:
Brisbane Airport – 195 km (2h 15m)
Byron Bay – 31 km (30m)
Coffs Harbour – 206 km (2h 27m)
Grafton – 137 km (1h 30m)
Coolangatta Airport – 89 km (1h)
Lismore – 31 km (37m)
Port Macquarie – 357 km (4h)
Sydney – 730 km (8h)
Travel by coach or rail
Ballina is well connected by coach services, with daily routes operated by Premier Motor Service, Greyhound Australia, and NSW TrainLink. For the most up-to-date schedules, please visit their respective websites.
For rail travellers, NSW TrainLink services stop daily at Casino Railway Station, with convenient coach transfers to Ballina and Lennox Head included in the ticket fare. Contact Ballina Cruise & Travel for bookings.
Local Transport in Ballina and Surrounds
Getting around Ballina and the Northern Rivers region is easy with a range of local transport options.
Public bus services are provided by Ballina Bus Lines and CDC NSW, connecting key towns and suburbs throughout the area.
For more flexible travel, there are plenty of car hire options available, as well as reliable taxi services to get you where you need to go.
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