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.
Breweries, Distilleries, Wineries
From stunning distilleries to relaxed hinterland breweries, the Northern Rivers offers a laid-back mix of places to enjoy a drink and take in the surrounds….
Local Produce
The Ballina Coast & Hinterland and the Northern Rivers as a whole is a well known food bowl, where fresh, local produce is a way…
Pubs & Clubs
From classic country locals to family friendly hangouts, the Ballina Coast and Hinterland serves up pubs and clubs with unique character. Pull up a stool…
Restaurants and Cafes
From classic country locals to family friendly hangouts, the Ballina Coast and Hinterland serves up pubs and clubs with unique character. Pull up a stool…
Takeaway
From waterfront fish and chips to artisan bakeries, fresh sushi, great coffee and old-school ice cream, takeaway around the Ballina Coast and Hinterland makes eating…
Local Produce
The Northern Rivers is a region where local produce truly shines thanks to fertile land, passionate growers and waterways. From creamy avocados and macadamias to succulent seafood, sweet honey and delicious coffee, freshness is a given.
For a deeper dive, plantation tours and farm experiences invite you behind the scenes, connecting you to the people and processes behind the product.
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.
Happy Hour
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.
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!
Be inspired
Plan a weekend escape, take a scenic hinterland drive, or explore our handpicked ideas for family-friendly outings. Whatever you’re in the mood for, we’ve done the groundwork - simply follow one of our curated guides and make the decision making easier.