Lighthouse Beach is one of Ballina’s main beaches and is patrolled in school holidays, making it the perfect spot for families. Approximately 500m in length, there are plenty of walking tracks either end to give you great views of the beach – North Wall and Ballina Headland.

The northern end is perfect for when the northerly winds blow as it is protected from the headland. It is also the end that is patrolled in school holidays and on weekends in the summer months.

There is plenty of car parking and if you forget your lunch or need a coffee, you can grab a bite to eat at at the kiosk with views over the beach.

Popular for surfing and swimming and close to accommodation properties such as Quality Hotel Ballina, Discovery Parks Ballina and Grandview Apartments.

Shelly Beach Cafe is located along Shelly Beach in East Ballina. This beautiful cafe boasts scenic ocean views and feels like you are sitting right on the sand.

Open Tuesday to Sunday for breakfast and lunch, choose from their extensive menu serving fresh meals using local produce and accompany your meal with a barista made coffee or drink from the bar. A special takeaway menu is also available.

To kick off your weekends, they are also open every Friday night for Sunset Sessions – live music and cocktails at sunset.

Shelly Beach Cafe can also host private functions and is an ideal location for weddings.

This is the perfect location to sit back, relax and breathe in the fresh sea breeze.

A local favourite! Authentic Middle Eastern cuisine with a modern flair. This cafe-style, middle eastern-inspired medley with a restaurant-plating touch is well worth exploring.

Situated in the main CBD, Cafe Boker are open for breakfast and lunch seven days a week. Not only do they serve delicious authentic Middle Eastern cuisine, but they also serve delicious fresh coffee to accompany your meal or indulge in a tasty treat.

Out Of The Blue Adventures offer first-class whale watching, snorkeling tours, dolphin cruises, coastal discovery and scenic sunset river cruises, as well as private charters.

Voted number one on TripAdvisor, there’s no better way to enjoy the magnificence of the Byron Bay region’s natural beauty and wildlife than from its pristine waters.

Encounter species such as whales, dolphins, turtles and birdlife in Cape Byron Marine Park. Explore the breathtaking coastline between Ballina and Byron Bay.

View Byron Lighthouse from a whole new perspective as you navigate Australia’s most easterly point. Bask in a glorious sunset on the tranquil Richmond River as you enjoy a complimentary cool beverage and learn about the region and wildlife from a marine biologist.

The purpose-built eco-vessels have individual seating up to 20 or 25 guests and 360-degree views for unparalleled dolphin/whale watching and sightseeing experiences.

The unique hull design ensures a smooth, comfortable ride in all cruising conditions. The friendly, professional team guarantee a first-class, unmatched eco-tour.

Boarding at Lance Ferris Wharf, Ballina.

Seven Mile Brewing Co is a family owned and operated independent craft brewery based in Ballina, Northern NSW. With the local community and producers in mind they have a simple mission – to craft the best beer possible.

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday from noon their fresh craft beers and a rotating roster of food trucks create a relaxed, fun and delicious experience for the senses.

Located right next to Ballina Airport and only 25 minutes drive from Byron Bay, this is a brewery you’ll want to come back to.

Nine metres high and weighing 35 tonnes, the Big Prawn is one of Australia’s most famous Big Things. It’s hard to miss as you drive the main road into Ballina. It’s also hard to imagine the town without it.

However, a prawnless Ballina was almost a reality. Twenty years after its birth in 1989, the giant crustacean was looking a bit long in the pincers, and locals debated fiercely over what should be done about it. Shockingly, there was even talk of demolition. Thankfully, hardware store Bunnings (which lives is next door) came to the rescue, and following a AUD400,000 makeover, the new-and-improved Big Prawn was unveiled in 2013. For the first time, it even had a tail.

Taking a picture with the prawn is a must-do if you’re in Ballina. And if the sight of all that seafood makes you peckish, fear not: there are some great places selling fresh catches on the other side of the road.

Ballina Beach Nature Resort is the antidote to stress and busyness, where you can slow life down or amp up the adventure and fun!

Their peaceful tropical hideaway gem is nestled alongside a 31-kilometre stretch of South Ballina Beach, the Richmond River and pristine nature reserves. Spread over a spacious nine hectares, they are a wilderness island escape on the mainland. Best of all, they’re only ten minutes from Ballina Centre and 30 minutes from everything the Byron Hinterland has to offer.

Ballina Beach Nature Resort believe in giving everyone access to nature’s playground. That’s why they’ve increased their choice of accommodation types to suit every budget and vibe. Families, couples, singles, surfers, trail walkers, pet lovers, adventure seekers, fishing buddies, birdwatchers, romantics, stargazers, wilderness wanderers, eco-warriors, sunset chasers, whale watchers, yogis—they, and nature, love you all.

In the 1850s, the charming riverside village of Wardell, then known as ‘Blackwall,’ was a bustling cedar-getter settlement, home to two sawmills and a thriving river trade. As the cedar supply dwindled, the fertile lands gave way to sugarcane farming, which has since become the heart of Wardell’s economy.

Today, Wardell offers a delightful escape steeped in history and natural beauty. Anglers will relish the excellent fishing opportunities, while history enthusiasts can embark on the ‘Wardell Walkabout,’ a self-guided tour of the village’s historic buildings that whisper tales of a bygone era.

Situated upstream on the picturesque Richmond River, Wardell is a serene retreat surrounded by rolling sugarcane fields. It’s the perfect starting point for your journey along Tourist Drive 28. Don’t leave without sampling a famous Wardell pie – a treat as warm and welcoming as the village itself!

Wardell is more than a destination; it’s an experience to discover its unique charm!

Jingi Wahla –welcome – to the Ballina Coast & Hinterland, the traditional Nyangbul Country of the Bundjalung Nation.

With 32km of stunning coastline, world heritage listed rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, and unique hinterland communities to discover; the Ballina Coast and Hinterland is the ultimate destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Within only four days, it is possible to traverse magnificent coastal headlands, hike to the base of a waterfall, experience the best of the regions local produce, cruise through hinterland roads, get up close and personal with our native wildlife and immerse yourself in ancient rainforests. This adventure packed itinerary showcases the rich and diverse natural attractions that the Ballina Coast and Hinterland has to offer.

Summerland Farm is a must-visit destination nestled in the scenic hinterland of the Northern Rivers, NSW. Set on a stunning 96-hectare macadamia and avocado farm, it’s a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of nature, experience an authentic productive farm, and enjoy a day relaxing day out.

A vibrant agritourism business, Summerland Farm offers a variety of unique on-site experiences – from interactive animal encounters and guided farm tours to a fully accessible adventure playground and themed seasonal events.

Visitors can taste fresh regional produce in the award-winning café, explore the curated retail hub filled with locally made goods, and relax in beautifully landscaped gardens surrounded by panoramic mountain views.

What makes Summerland Farm truly special is its heart. Operated by Aruma, a leading disability service provider, the farm is a working example of inclusive employment – proudly supporting people with a disability to thrive in meaningful roles across hospitality, horticulture, and tourism. It’s a place of purpose, connection, and joy.

Whether you’re travelling with kids, seeking a scenic stopover, or simply wanting to reconnect with nature, Summerland Farm invites you to Taste. Explore. Play. – and discover the wonder at every turn.

Discover the enchanting charm of Alstonville, a hidden gem nestled among the rolling green hills of a stunning plateau, just a short 15-minute drive from Ballina. This captivating town invites you to step back in time with its historic buildings and classic Australian architecture, while offering a modern cultural flair through vibrant galleries, cosy cafes, and delightful tea houses. Alstonville is the perfect getaway for those seeking a unique blend of rich history, artistic expression, and laid-back relaxation.

Famous for its lush red volcanic soil, Alstonville is a paradise for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. The region produces an abundance of fresh avocados, macadamia nuts, tropical fruits, and locally grown coffee—treats that will delight your taste buds and connect you to the land.

Venture beyond the town and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding hills, where hidden waterfalls and lush subtropical parks await your exploration. Victoria Park Nature Reserve is a must-visit, preserving one of the last remaining pockets of the ancient Big Scrub rain forest, offering a peaceful retreat into nature’s untouched wonder. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Alstonville promises an unforgettable experience in one of Australia’s most serene and picturesque corners.

Affectionately known by the locals as ‘The Feddy’, Alstonville’s iconic Federal Hotel has welcomed locals and tourists alike for more than 100 years. The Federal Hotel was established in 1896, and whilst the Hotel has undergone many refurbishments over the years, the original Federation character is balanced alongside the essential features of a modern venue.

Right in the heart of the Alstonville village, it’s the perfect place to pop in for a bite to eat or a cold drink.

Inside, you will find a friendly, social atmosphere, an all-weather dining area and a shady beer garden for families to relax and enjoy live entertainment.

Explore South Ballina and the great fishing spots on the other side of the Richmond River by travelling on the vehicle ferry.

Burns Point Ferry constantly goes back and forth from Ballina to South Ballina between the hours of 5:30 am to 12:30 am daily. There is no schedule, it just goes back and forth. Please note the ferry is closed on the second Tuesday of every month for maintenance from 9 am until 12 pm.

One way and weekly tickets can be purchased on the Ferry by EFTPOS. Cash is not accepted.

Explore the rich Aboriginal heritage amongst the beauty of the Ballina coastline. The Aboriginal Cultural Ways is located on the Coastal Recreational Path at Angels Beach, East Ballina stretching north along the coastline to Sharpes Beach then continuing on to Lennox Point with QR code signage.

The pathway is set back from the beach amongst the trees and surrounded by stunning scenery. Take a historical journey along this part of Ballina’s coastline and learn about the special significance of the Aboriginal people and their cultural heritage through 22 panels of interpretive information.

Ballina Shire Council has worked with Jali Local Aboriginal Land Council and members of Ballina Shire’s Aboriginal community to produce a series of panels to recognise the special significance of this path to Aboriginal people. Stories along the path provide a mix of themes including historical events, cultural stories, landscape, language and significance of place. Members of the Aboriginal community have chosen to share their stories with users of the path to provide an insight into the cultural significance of this landscape and maintain their connection to Country.

Before you visit, it’s recommended that you download a QR code scanner app. This can be done by visiting your smart phone’s app store.

QR codes will be used in conjunction with the signage to provide complementary material along the path with audio content.

There is nothing quite like a spectacular coastal view to remind you how magical the Northern Rivers is, and Pat Morton Lookout provides one of the best. On the top of Lennox Point, just a five-minute drive or half-hour walk via coastal boardwalk from Lennox Head, the lookout offers seats and a grassy area with idyllic views over the village and up Seven Mile Beach.

With hang gliders wheeling overhead; the sun glistening on the water; whales (from May to October) and dolphins breaking the surface; and surfers riding the famous right-hand break into shore, it is a magnificent spot at which to linger a while. Tip: be sure to bring a well-stocked picnic basket with you.

Head up the steps to the top of the lookout and you get dramatic views to the south, too. From here, the beautiful, often windswept, walk along the grassy clifftops down to Boulder Beach is a must-do, and, if you’ve got a couple of hours up your sleeve, you can keep going all the way to Ballina.

Lennox Head is a must-visit destination, renowned for its world-class surf breaks at Boulders and Lennox Point, making it a surfer’s paradise. For stunning views, take a trip to the headland or head to Pat Morton Lookout, where you can spot whales and dolphins during their migrations. If you’re after a thrilling experience, try hang-gliding over the spectacular coastline, or enjoy the scenic bush tracks and pathways that lead from the town to the lookout.

A highlight of Lennox Head is the tranquil Lake Ainsworth, tucked between the white sands of Seven Mile Beach and the vibrant coastal heathland. The fresh waters of the lake are uniquely stained a deep ‘billy-tea’ colour by the surrounding tea trees, creating a serene and picturesque spot. Take a dip in the lake’s distinctive waters, sailboard across its surface, or go canoeing.

With its blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and relaxed atmosphere, Lennox Head is an inviting and unforgettable destination.

Lake Ainsworth, a fresh water tea-tree lake with dark tannins from the surrounding paperbark trees. It is a popular spot with both Lennox Head locals and visitors. The lake, which covers an area of about 12 hectares, is located at the northern end of Pacific Parade.

It’s an ideal swimming spot for families with young children and is also suitable for stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and canoeing.

Recreation facilities include pathways, barbecues, picnic tables and parking.

The lake can be affected by blue-green algae. Check the Ballina Shire Council website for official advice.

Situated right on the river and in the centre of town, the Wharf Bar and Restaurant takes advantage of the stunning Richmond River backdrop with its open plan dining area, which allows it to boast one of the most spectacular sunsets in all of the Ballina region, home to the fastest growing regional airport and pristine beaches in the country.

Wharf Bar Ballina is a fully licensed restaurant, bar and takeaway with an impressive collection of wines, beers and spirits and cocktails. It has a strong focus on providing the highest quality Mediterranean food including fresh seafood, pastas, meats and authentic wood fired pizzas,

Situated adjacent to the renowned Flat Rock, this uniquely natural tent park is a hidden treasure worth visiting.

This park is only a short drive from Ballina and Lennox Head and features a wide range of clean amenities such as gas heating, gas and wood barbecues, hot showers, outdoor kitchen, washing tubs, a fully stocked kiosk to keep the kids happy and safety lighting in and around the park. The park has unpowered sites and caters for tents, camper trailers and camper vans.

If a secluded camping holiday by the beach sounds like your cup of tea, then Flat Rock Tent Park is definitely the place for you and your family.

Flat Rock is arguably one of the most desired beaches and the most easterly point of this coastline. It is a very popular surfing spot for new and experienced surfers due to the rocky outcrop creating a surf break.

The rock pools are home to lots of marine life and are great to explore when the tide is low, making this beach popular with families. It is also home to a lot of birds, so you often see bird watchers looking for specific species.

Flat Rock Tent Park is located just behind the dunes, making it a perfect place to camp for beach and fishing lovers. Toilets and showers are available in the car park, and a beach is patrolled in the school holidays.

Flat Rock is dog-friendly, but they must remain on a leash at all times.

Toilets and showers are available in the car park and a roving lifeguard patrols in the school holidays.

The Belle General Cafe is way ahead of the game in offering specialised food to suit current dietary requirements such as gluten and dairy-free, paleo and vegetarian creations, at the Belle General no one is excluded – even the crumbed fish is gluten-free and the chips.

With their dedication and commitment to providing great food, inviting space and above all a harmonious environment that is infectious, the Belle is already firmly established as a ‘must-do’ for holidaymakers and locals alike.

No trip to the Northern Rivers is complete without a visit to a waterfall, and Killen Falls is up there with the most accessible and photogenic of them all.

After a 20-minute drive through the rolling hills of the hinterland from Ballina, the falls can be found in a special patch of rainforest, part of the Big Scrub, which once blanketed this region but is now just one per cent of its previous size.

It’s a 330m walk through the lush forest from the car park to the top of the falls, where you’re rewarded with a bird’s-eye view down into the pool below.

Take the steep and sometimes slippery (but not too challenging) walk down to the base of the falls to see them from a whole new angle. Keep an eye out for turtles, birds and other wildlife. And walk into the cave behind the falls to get a great view looking out.

Killen Falls is a great stop off while exploring tourist drive 28.

Situated halfway between Lennox Head and Byron Bay, Newrybar is a picturesque historic village full of charm and character.

A must-visit in the village is The Little General, a delightful local café and store offering freshly brewed coffee, delicious pastries, and a carefully curated natural wines. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and explore unique finds while enjoying the warm village atmosphere.

For those with a love of flowers, The Flower House Newrybar is a beautiful florist offering stunning floral arrangements and bespoke designs. It’s an idyllic place to pick up a unique bouquet or simply enjoy the fragrant blooms in a lovely setting.

Newrybar also offers a variety of local treasures to explore, including Newrybar Merchants, where you can find homewares and lifestyle pieces crafted by local artists and artisans in a charming 1890s homestead.

Take a scenic drive through the surrounding countryside to discover coffee and macadamia plantations, as well as farm-gate stalls, particularly along Broken Head, Brooklet, and Piccadilly Hill roads. For a peaceful escape, enjoy a swim at Killen Falls, or stay at a welcoming local bed and breakfast, where the warm country hospitality will make you feel right at home.

With its blend of natural beauty, quirky shops, and relaxing atmosphere, Newrybar is a delightful destination for a peaceful and memorable getaway.

The only thing better than sitting back and admiring the rolling hills of the Byron-Ballina hinterland is sitting back and admiring it with a great cup of coffee.

Zentveld’s Coffee Farm and Roastery is the place to be. Grab a barista-made brew, sit on the deck to admire views of the plantation, and buy a bag of beans that have been grown, processed, and roasted on the farm.

Located near the pretty village of Newrybar, the family-owned and run business embraces regenerative farming practices to ensure this beautiful part of the world stays that way.

On a clear day, you can also see Wollumbin Mount Warning. If you want to bring something more substantial to eat and turn the occasion into lunch, the Zentveld’s crew won’t mind at all.

Lennox Pizza and Pasta is a locally owned and operated business in Lennox Head and has been operating for the past 16 years. They source local, organic and free-range produce when available, to create gorgeous gourmet pizza and pasta dishes.

Recently opening at their brand new state of the art location, this is a great family-friendly restaurant boasting ocean views, funky decor and an awesome vibe.

Their new menu features all your favourites including pizza, pasta, ribs, wings and salads along with some new addtions including loaded fries and tasty desserts.

With their new bar they are fully licensed and have a great cocktail menu. There are some delicious surprises on there with locally inspired names, or you can just treat yourself to a local brew!

Dine in or takeaway available.