Explore South Ballina and discover some of the Northern Rivers’ best fishing spots by crossing the Richmond River on the Burns Point Ferry. The ferry provides the only vehicle access to South Ballina, making it an essential link for visitors heading to South Ballina Beach, 4WD adventures, fishing, camping and nature-based experiences.

The Burns Point Ferry operates daily between Ballina and South Ballina from 5.30am to 12.30am, travelling continuously across the Richmond River with no fixed timetable. Please note the ferry is closed for scheduled maintenance on the second Tuesday of each month from 9.00am to 12.00pm.

Fares can be purchased onboard using EFTPOS only. Cash is not accepted. One-way and weekly passes are available.

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!

From the fishing village of Wardell to the historic village of Newrybar, this picturesque hinterland drive meanders though thriving working farms, historic villages brimming with character, artist studios, and a generous sprinkling of cosy cafes to discover.

Embark on this unforgettable journey and let the Ballina hinterland reveal its timeless charm.

Discover a treasure trove of maritime history at Bottom of the Harbour Antiques in the Northern Rivers of NSW, home to an eclectic collection of nautical antiques, maritime collectables and unique pieces sourced from around the world.

Founded by Mike Meadows after more than a decade travelling the seven seas, Bottom of the Harbour grew from his lifelong passion for collecting nauticalia. His original collection focused on four favourites – scrimshaw, navigational instruments, ship bells and diving helmets – and has since expanded to include an ever-changing selection of fascinating and hard-to-find pieces.

Mike’s strong connection with Indonesia also inspired a passion for antique Indonesian furniture, décor and handcrafted pieces, following the opening of Bottom of the Harbour stores in Jakarta and Bali in the late 1980s.

After more than 35 years as an iconic fixture in The Rocks, Sydney, Bottom of the Harbour is now headquartered in the Northern Rivers of New South Wales.

For antique lovers, collectors and treasure hunters visiting the Northern Rivers, it’s a fascinating place to uncover distinctive pieces filled with history, character and stories from across the globe.

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 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.

Looking for things to do in Alstonville? Just a 15-minute drive from Ballina, this charming hinterland town is well worth a visit. Surrounded by rolling green hills and rich farmland, Alstonville is known for its heritage buildings, welcoming cafés, boutique shops, art galleries and relaxed country atmosphere. Whether you’re planning a scenic drive from Ballina, a day trip or simply looking for somewhere new to explore, Alstonville has plenty to discover.

Alstonville is also a great place to experience the flavours of the Northern Rivers. Thanks to its fertile red volcanic soil, the surrounding region is known for growing macadamias, avocados, tropical fruits and locally grown coffee. Stop for breakfast or lunch at one of the town’s cafés, browse the local shops or explore the region’s fresh local produce.

Nature lovers will find plenty to enjoy just beyond the town centre. Take a peaceful rainforest walk along the boardwalk at Victoria Park Nature Reserve, home to a remnant of the ancient Big Scrub rainforest, or explore nearby waterfalls, scenic country roads and lush hinterland landscapes.

With its mix of country charm, local food, history and natural attractions, Alstonville is an easy and enjoyable day trip from Ballina or Lennox Head and a lovely addition to any Northern Rivers itinerary.

No trip to the Northern Rivers feels complete without chasing a waterfall — and Killen Falls is one of the region’s most accessible and photogenic.

Just a 20-minute drive from Ballina, and 10 mins from the scenic hinterland village of Alstonville, the falls are tucked away along Friday Hut Road in Tintenbar, surrounded by lush rainforest that forms part of the Big Scrub — once vast, now reduced to just one per cent of its original extent. It’s a special pocket of nature and one well worth slowing down for.

From the car park, a 330-metre walk winds through dense greenery to the top of the falls, where a lookout offers sweeping views down into the pool below. For a closer encounter, follow the steep but manageable track to the base of the falls. It can be slippery, so take care — the reward is a dramatic, ground-level perspective and the chance to spot turtles, birds and other local wildlife.

Don’t miss the small cave behind the waterfall, where you can stand beneath the cascade and look out through the falling water — a favourite photo spot.

Killen Falls is just one stop along the very popular Hinterland Drive that passes through gorgeous hinterland villages like Alstonville, Newrybar and Wardell. Killen Falls is an easy and memorable stop while exploring the hinterland drive, and a must-see for nature lovers visiting the Ballina hinterland.

Love waterfalls? Why not read about a day adventure chasing waterfalls in the Byron & Ballina Hinterland.

Dogs are not permitted at Killen Falls, but find out where you can take your furry friend check out our Dog Friendly Guide to the Ballina Coast & Hinterland.

The Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary’s purpose is to create an awareness of the importance of respecting the natural world together with the community, by offering experiences that enable visitors to leave feeling fulfilled, with a newfound understanding and enjoyment of what Australia’s natural landscape has to offer, with the priority to respect, protect and enjoy Australia’s native flora and fauna.

The Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is open to the public seven days a week and offers a comprehensive daily activity schedule including Keeper talks and wildlife presentations including Free Flight Birds. The park also offers interactive wildlife experiences that give you an up-close and personal experience with native animals. The Sanctuary also has a café, a unique retail store, with a focus on locally produced and sustainable gifts alongside a large fine foods department and hot-nut bar.

⁠Their wildlife education programs are available to book for schools or groups interested in learning more about Australian wildlife, conservation and the environment. They also offer comprehensive kids’ day programs during the school holidays which allow kids to get a hands-on experience at The Sanctuary where learning and fun combine.

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.