Ballina Beachfront Dining

Eat & Drink

From relaxed waterfront dining with ocean breezes or river views to character-filled hinterland pubs pouring cold craft beers, there’s something to satisfy every craving in the Ballina Coast and Hinterland.

Cozy cafés serve up locally grown coffee and homemade treats, while menus across the region hero fresh, local produce - think seafood straight from the trawlers, farm-grown greens, and seasonal produce.

Whether you're chasing a beachside breakfast, a sunset cocktail, or a hearty country meal, the Ballina Coast & Hinterland serves it all with flavour and heart.

Wharf Bar Pelican And Drinks

Waterfront Dining

Ballina and Lennox Head offer sublime waterfront dining - from beach‑side breakfast and brunch at Shelly Beach Cafe and Shelter to riverside gems like Wharf Bar and Ballina RSL, plus sunset spots such as Capiche and Lennox Hotel. These are just some of the options serving great food with sweeping ocean or river views.

Bartender pouring a pink cocktail into a glass at Kelp bar in Ballina, with a salted rim and fresh garnish.

Happy Hour Hotspots

Start your evening with a happy hour drink before diving into the region’s vibrant dining scene. Enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail at Hey Lady or Kelp in Ballina or enjoy a cold margie at Williams St or Lennox Pizza in Lennox Head. It’s the perfect way to ease into your evening or catch up with friends.

Fresh wild-caught local prawns on ice at a Northern Rivers seafood in Ballina

Satisfying Seafood

Fresh from ocean to plate, Ballina's seafood scene is a must for lovers of prawns, oysters, and local catch. From casual fish and chips on the river to fine dining, there’s something for every palate.

Discover our top picks in our latest blog post!

Restaurants

Located in the Lennox Beach Resort, iWok Restaurant is a favourite amongst locals and offers authentic Chinese and Asian cuisine. Excellent and affordable, iWok is a popular choice for groups and families. Fully licensed it also has a lovely atmosphere for an intimate dinner and cocktail for two. The restaurant also provides takeaway options for... Read More

iWok Restaurant

Lennox Head | Food and Drink
The Wollongbar Tavern offers a modern, relaxed environment making it the perfect place to meet socially with friends and family and enjoy quality meals. The Wollongbar Tavern truly offers something for everyone and is well appointed with a Sports Bar, Lounge Bar, Entertainment area and two beer gardens. Simply winding down after work in the... Read More

Wollongbar Tavern

Wollongbar | Food and Drink
Red Wok Thai Restaurant offers modern Thai cuisine in the heart of Ballina Discover one of Ballina’s top-rated Thai restaurants, perfectly positioned in the town centre with stunning views over Fawcett Park and the Richmond River – ideal for a sunset dinner to remember. Red Wok Thai Restaurant blends contemporary Thai flavours with fresh, locally... Read More

Red Wok Thai

Ballina | Food and Drink
Malibu Ballina brings a fresh vibe and a delicious menu to Ballina’s food scene. Serving up an enticing selection of burgers, bowls, and salads, Malibu Ballina focuses on fresh, made-to-order meals that cater to all appetites. With both takeaway and dine-in options, it’s perfect for grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a relaxed meal with... Read More

Malibu Ballina

Ballina | Food and Drink
Nestled in the heart of Ballina, The Manor Restaurant offers a dining experience where heritage charm meets contemporary cuisine. Their menu is a carefully curated fusion of classic favourites and bold, innovative creations, crafted with the finest locally sourced ingredients from farmers and artisans who share their passion for quality and sustainability. Complementing their dishes... Read More

The Manor Restaurant

Ballina | Food and Drink
Located in East Ballina, Coffee and Kitchen offers breakfast and lunch seven days a week, available for dine-in or takeaway. The menu features locally sourced produce and locally roasted coffee, reflecting a strong commitment to supporting the local community. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free options are available, catering to a range of dietary needs. The café’s... Read More

Coffee and Kitchen

East Ballina | Food and Drink
Che Bon’s menu is a celebration of classic French flavors, offering everything from rich, velvety sauces to perfectly cooked meats and decadent desserts that transport you straight to France. Whether you’re indulging in a romantic dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or simply treating yourself, every meal is a memorable experience. The restaurant’s warm and welcoming... Read More

Che Bon Restaurant

Ballina | Food and Drink
Bonito Peruvian Eatery is nestled in the Northern Rivers hills of Wollongbar. First Peruvian Restaurant in the area and really focused on local produce with, of course, a Peruvian twist. Expect lots of seafood dishes like ceviche, cocktails with Pisco and Australian wines with minimal intervention. Also plenty of gluten free, vegetarian and weekly special... Read More

Bonito Peruvian Eatery

Wollongbar | Food and Drink
If casual waterfront dining is what you are after, look no further! Pull up a deck chair on the grass, let the kids run free, enjoy a great brew and watch the waves roll in at the Kiosk Lennox Beach under the Lennox Surf Club. Delicious home-made treats, banana bread (yum), brekky bowls, burgers, salad... Read More

Kiosk Lennox Beach

Lennox Head | Food and Drink
Bombay Wala is a family-owned and operated Indian Restaurant located in the East Ballina Shopping Centre. Priding themselves on serving authentic Indian food, offering an extensive menu with all of your favourites. Casual dining and takeaway options available. Delivery is available to various locations within the Ballina Shire.

Bombay Wala

East Ballina | Food and Drink
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Ideas and inspiration

Last Updated: Planning a family trip? Ballina and Lennox Head are packed with fun activities for kids, from meeting wildlife and exploring waterfalls to hitting the beach or taking a creative workshop. Whether you’re looking for the best things to do in Ballina with kids, top family-friendly places to visit in Ballina, or adventure-filled fun... Read More

10 Best Family-Friendly Activities around the Ballina Coast & Hinterland

Last Updated: Looking for the perfect place to pitch a tent, park the caravan, or enjoy a luxury holiday cabin? The Ballina Coast & Hinterland offers some of the best camping and caravan parks along the North Coast, with beachfront locations, tranquil river views, and family-friendly facilities. Whether you’re after a pet-friendly retreat, a glamping... Read More

Best Camping & Caravan Parks around the Ballina Coast & Hinterland

Spend a fun-filled day in Ballina with the family, starting with scenic river views and wildlife spotting at the North Wall. Enjoy delicious breakfasts by the beach, explore rockpools and playgrounds, and take in beautiful coastal activities. With plenty of dining options, seasonal adventures like whale watching, and iconic local sights, Ballina offers the perfect... Read More

Exploring Ballina: A Perfect Family Day

Top Kid-Friendly Restaurants You’ll Love Last Updated: Planning a family outing can sometimes feel like a juggling act, especially when it comes to finding a place to eat that keeps everyone happy. Luckily, the Ballina Coast and Hinterland is filled with fantastic dining spots that cater to both kids and grown-ups alike. Whether you’re after... Read More

Family-Friendly Dining in Ballina Coast & Hinterland

Explore towns & villages

Newrybar

Lennox Head

Teven & Tintenbar

Alstonville & Wollongbar

Ballina

South Ballina

Wardell