One for the Boys: A Weekend Away in the Ballina Coast & Hinterland
On the Far North Coast of New South Wales, the Ballina Coast and Hinterland is made for weekends that strike the right balance. It's all about hands-on experiences, time outdoors, great food and drink, and room to genuinely switch off.
Whether it’s a long-overdue catch-up or a planned group escape, Ballina makes it easy to shape a weekend that flows - with plenty happening when the energy’s high, and downtime right where it counts.
Day One: Easy Starts and High-Energy Fun
Indoor Golf at Ballina Virtual Golf
Ease into the weekend with Ballina Virtual Golf, a relaxed, weather-proof way to get everyone together from the start. With realistic virtual courses and fun challenges, it works just as well for seasoned golfers as it does for first-timers.
It’s a low-pressure way to kick things off and set the tone for the weekend ahead.
Paintball Skirmish Adventures
Once everyone’s warmed up, it’s time to lift the pace. Paintball Skirmish delivers outdoor games built around friendly competition, teamwork and plenty of laughs.
It’s an ideal contrast to the slower moments of the weekend and a great way to burn off some energy before shifting gears.
BBQ Boat Cruises on the Richmond River
After a big morning, slow things right down with a BBQ boat from Ballina Boat Hire and cruise the Richmond River. With food on board and nowhere to be, it’s an easy way to spend the afternoon, soaking up Ballina’s natural scenery without a fixed schedule.
It’s unhurried, social, and the perfect bridge between action and downtime.
Where to Stay: Coastal Campgrounds in Ballina
Round out day one by settling into one of Ballina’s coastal campgrounds. With the sound of the ocean nearby and space to unwind, it’s an easy, laid-back way to recharge for day two, no alarms required.
Day Two: Outdoors, Water Time and Local Flavours
Duck Creek Mountain Bike Park
Day two starts inland at Duck Creek Mountain Bike Park, located just a few kilometres from Ballina on the way to Alstonville. The park features around nine kilometres of purpose-built mountain bike trails, ranging from easy rides to more technical tracks.
All trails are clearly signposted with difficulty ratings, making it suitable for mixed abilities. It’s a favourite with locals and visitors alike, open access, no bookings, just roll in and ride.
Fishing Experiences with Evans Head Deep Sea Fishing
If conditions are right, head back towards the coast for a session with Evans Head Deep Sea Fishing. Their guided fishing experiences out to see and surrounding waterways cater to all skill levels, combining local knowledge with a relaxed approach.
Whether you’re chasing a decent catch or simply enjoying time on the water, it’s a classic Northern Rivers experience.
Brewery Tours with Behind the Barrel
Finish the day with a Behind the Barrel brewery tour, showcasing Ballina and the wider Northern Rivers craft beer scene. The guided format keeps things easy, with tastings, local stories and no need to plan transport.
It’s a fitting way to wrap up the weekend’s main events, relaxed, social and distinctly local.
Classic Pub Feeds and Local Entertainment
When the day’s adventures wind down and appetites kick in, Ballina’s local pubs step up. If you’re chasing that classic pub feed - generous portions, cold beers and zero pretension - you’re in the right place. From laid-back waterfront venues to long-standing locals’ favourites, Ballina’s pub scene delivers hearty bistro meals alongside live music, trivia nights and easygoing entertainment most nights of the week.
It’s the perfect end-of-day option: no bookings, no fuss, just good food, good banter and a relaxed atmosphere that keeps the conversation flowing well into the evening.
Before You Head Home: Recovery at SISU Ballina
Before calling time on the weekend, make a final stop at SISU Ballina and give the body a proper reset. Their sauna, magnesium pools and ice baths are designed to help tired muscles recover, improve circulation and leave you feeling recharged after a big couple of days exploring the Ballina Coast & Hinterland.
Why Ballina Works for a Boys’ Weekend.
Ballina Coast and Hinterland offers the flexibility groups want from a weekend away. Activities are close together, the pace is relaxed, and it’s easy to mix adventure with downtime.
From inland trails to coastal waters, local brews to recovery sessions, Ballina delivers a boys’ weekend that’s easy to plan, and even easier to enjoy.