Family fun
Looking for things to do in Ballina with kids? Create lasting family memories in the great outdoors. From beach days and bike rides to hinterland adventures and riverside picnics, this region is packed with classic, feel-good experiences.
Ballina Coast & Hinterland is your go-to destination for outdoor fun - from fishing and surfing to waterslides, coastal walks and wildlife encounters. Kids can get hands-on with native animals, swim in lakes, bays or learn to surf and world class beaches.
Whether you're building sandcastles on the beach or exploring hidden hinterland trails, there’s something here for every age to enjoy. It's all about simple pleasures, shared experiences, and making memories that last a lifetime.
What's On for Kids
Looking for fun things to do with the kids? Check out our What’s On calendar to uncover family-friendly events, delicious dining deals, and hands-on workshops perfect for curious little ones (and their grown-ups too). Whether you’re planning a weekend adventure or seeking a last-minute idea, make sure to check the calendar today to make every visit to Ballina full of happy memories!
School Holiday Guide
The school holidays are all about fun, freedom, and new adventures — and there’s no better place to let loose than right here in the Ballina Coast & Hinterland! Discover exciting events, hands-on workshops and fun sport clinics happening these school holidays in our School Holiday Activity Guide.
10 Family Friendly Activities
The Ballina Coast & Hinterland is packed with family-friendly fun. From outdoor adventures and natural attractions to great local businesses offering plenty for kids, discover some of the best things to see and do as a family. Explore the Best Family-Friendly Activities.
Four Day Itinerary
Plan the perfect family getaway with our Four-Day Itinerary around the Ballina Coast & Hinterland. From dolphin spotting and rock-pool adventures to meeting farm animals, chasing waterfalls and beachside fun, each day is packed with easy, family-friendly activities that balance adventure with relaxation.
Camp Life
Make your next family getaway easy! From beachfront caravan parks to peaceful riverside stays, the Ballina Coast & Hinterland has plenty of family-friendly options with great facilities for the kids. Discover the best family-friendly caravan parks and holiday parks.
Dining made easy
When it comes to dining with kids, think less stress and more smiles. From casual cafés where sandy feet are welcome to restaurants with menus designed to please even the fussiest of little food critics, our region makes eating out easy. For hand-picked suggestions and insider tips, check out our Family-Friendly Dining Guide
Ballina Waterslides
Make a splash at the Ballina Waterslides! A great family day out, the waterslides offer plenty of fun for kids (and big kids too!).
Open during the NSW school holidays, excluding winter, and on weekends throughout the warmer months.
Animals & Wildlife Encounters
Get up close with some of Australia's amazing wildlife! From meeting native animals and spotting dolphins in the wild to hands-on farm experiences, there are plenty of animal encounters for kids around Ballina, Lennox Head and the Northern Rivers. Perfect for little animal lovers, these family-friendly experiences combine fun, discovery and a little adventure.
Parks & Adventure
Got kids with energy to burn? You're in the right place! From playgrounds and skate parks to pump tracks, mountain biking trails and outdoor adventures, there's plenty to keep active kids entertained around Ballina and Lennox Head. Bring the bikes, scooters or skateboards and discover some great spots for kids to play, ride, climb and explore. Best of all, many of these family-friendly activities are completely free!
Game On! Family Fun Activities
Ready for some friendly family competition? From ten pin bowling and mini golf to virtual golf, roller skating and indoor games, there's plenty of fun to be had around Ballina and the Northern Rivers. Whether you're looking for rainy day activities, school holiday entertainment or something different to do with the kids, these family-friendly attractions are sure to bring out everyone's competitive side!
Water Activities & Beaches
Make a splash on the Ballina Coast & Hinterland! With beautiful beaches, calm swimming spots, waterways and plenty of water-based activities, there's no shortage of fun for the whole family. Whether it's learning to surf, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, fishing or enjoying a beach day with the kids, discover some of the best family-friendly water activities around Ballina and Lennox Head.
Culture, Discovery & Slowdown time
Family fun doesn't always have to be action-packed! Slow things down and discover a different side of the Ballina Coast & Hinterland, with museums, cultural experiences, cinema outings and fascinating local attractions. Learn about Aboriginal culture, explore local history, discover beautiful outdoor areas or settle in for a family movie. These experiences are perfect for curious kids, creative minds and families looking for something a little different.
Nature Walks & Waterfalls
Little legs, big adventures! Discover family-friendly walks, lush rainforest trails and beautiful waterfalls throughout the Ballina Coast & Hinterland. From easy nature walks with the kids to exploring rock pools, spotting wildlife and discovering hidden waterfalls, there's plenty to explore outdoors. Pack a picnic, lace up your walking shoes and enjoy some fresh air and family time.