Welcome to Ballina
Ballina is a relaxed coastal town where the Richmond River meets the sea, offering a laid-back lifestyle and a deep connection to the water. With its scenic river paths, quiet beaches and fresh local seafood, it’s the perfect base for exploring the Northern Rivers or simply taking a break.
Spend your time walking the breakwall, visiting the local museum, watching the fishing boats come in or enjoying fish and chips by the water. Explore nearby headlands, browse the shops, or throw a line in from the riverbank. Whether you’re here to unwind, get outdoors or enjoy a classic beach escape, Ballina is easy to arrive in and hard to leave.
Naturally Local
When your town is home to the iconic Big Prawn, you know you're in serious seafood territory. Ballina King Prawns have earned their reputation. They are big, juicy and naturally sweet, a local delicacy that features proudly on menus across the Northern Rivers. Make sure to visit Ballina Fishermen's Co-op or Northern Rivers Seafood for your seafood fix.
Bet you didn’t know
Ballina is an island! Yep, central Ballina is surrounded by water. The Richmond River and man made canals border the town. The North Creek Canal opened in 1896 and linked North Creek with Fishery Creek allowing cane punts to directly proceed to the Richmond River without crossing the treacherous Ballina bar.
Don't miss
Make sure to take a sunset walk along the break wall from the Coast Guard Tower to the end of the wall. This is the ideal time to watch the trawlers heading out, spot the dolphins in the bar and see surfers catching their last waves of the day. It’s a really popular walk with the locals too!
It’s big. It’s bold. It’s brilliantly Ballina.
The Big Prawn might seem like a cheeky roadside stop - but one glimpse of giant crustacean and you’ll see why it’s an icon. Towering proudly at the entrance to Bunnings (another Aussie icon!), this jumbo seafood sculpture has become a beloved emblem of Ballina and a must-snap moment for travellers heading along the coast.
Fun fact: The Big Prawn stands 9 metres high and weighs 35 tonne. The restoration cost to add a tail and give the prawn a much needed makeover cost Bunnings $400,000 in 2013.
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Looking for a place to stay? From cabins to glamping tents, tiny houses to retro motels, , you’ll find the perfect spot to unwind. Browse and book local accommodation across the Ballina Coast and Hinterland.
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