Ballina

Travel Guide

Ballina
Ballina
Ballina
Ballina
Ballina

Sitting astride the gentle waters of the Richmond River, this North Coast hub has fantastic beaches, great surf breaks, tropical rainforests and hinterland beauty.

Experience the coastal and hinterland charm of Ballina, a major town and region in the Northern Rivers area of New South Wales. With unbeatable beaches and superb waters of the Richmond River, Ballina is a favorite spot for family getaways and watersports adventure.

Go boating and fishing in the magnificent river to experience Ballina’s plentiful waters. Find out about the town’s history at the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum. Relax in casual cafés or enjoy fresh produce direct from hinterland farms at Ballina’s restaurants and specialty stores.

Superb beaches are one of Ballina’s biggest draws. Investigate the patrolled waters of Shelly Beach or the popular Lighthouse Beach. Enjoy the tranquil shores and pretty surroundings of Shaws Bay Lagoon. Explore the coastline to find secret coves and excellent surf. Lennox Head is popular among surfing aficionados, while the waterslides at Ballina Water Park are a hit with younger visitors. From the shore or aboard a whale-watching charter boat, watch for humpback whales migrating along the coastline between June and November.

Make your way to Ballina’s main town to explore its laid-back streets. Have a meal in a waterfront café or check out the range of boutique stores. Explore the historic buildings and heritage charm of Wardell, Alstonville, Newrybar and Tintenbar. Knockrow is home to the family-friendly Macadamia Castle and the gateway to the Hinterland Way scenic route.

The cozy villages around South Ballina are ideal for experiencing the region’s natural beauty. Go birdwatching or ride on horseback along the beach. Cross the picturesque mouth of the Richmond River by taking the car ferry from Burns Point. River cruises provide an interesting insight into the Richmond River’s history.

Reach Ballina via the regional air hub of Ballina Byron Gateway Airport. Ballina has a wide variety of accommodations, including waterfront hotels. With Byron Bay about 45 minutes away by car, Ballina is a fantastic addition to your North Coast road-trip itinerary.

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Hotels

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Where to stay in Ballina

Find the best Ballina areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Ballina
Learn more about Ballina

Lennox Head

Lennox Head is known for its pristine beaches, and you can make a stop by Lennox Head Beach and Seven Mile Beach while in the area.

East Ballina

East Ballina is noteworthy for its beaches, and you can make a stop at top attractions like Lighthouse Beach and Ballina Golf Club.

Ballina Central

While visiting Ballina Central, you might make a stop by sights like Ballina Fair Shopping Centre and Ballina Racecourse.

North Creek

North Creek is known for its stunning beaches, and you can see some sights in the area like Lennox Head Beach and Seven Mile Beach.

Skennars Head

While visiting Skennars Head, you might make a stop by sights like Sharpe's Beach and Angels Beach.

Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron

Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron

4.5 out of 5
2 Martin Street Ballina NSW
The price is ¥20,428 per night from Jun 14 to Jun 15
¥20,428
¥22,471 total
Jun 14 - Jun 15
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Ballina. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 restaurants. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,005 reviews)
"Although the motel is comfortable I like to be provided with more than just a wifi link There was no information rather printed or digital about service within the motel No room service even though they have a restaurant in the building"

Reviewed on Jun 8, 2026

Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron
Ballina Byron Islander Resort and Conference Centre

Ballina Byron Islander Resort and Conference Centre

4 out of 5
1 Ronan Place West Ballina NSW
The price is ¥16,113 per night from Jun 21 to Jun 22
¥16,113
¥17,819 total
Jun 21 - Jun 22
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Ballina. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (688 reviews)
"I booked a room here late one night while travelling along the highway. Despite the last minute (and late night!) booking, staff were very welcoming and helpful. Room was clean, air conditioning ant TV worked well and the bed was comfortable. Ample parking, too. To my surprise, a continental breakfast ..."

Reviewed on Jun 10, 2026

Ballina Byron Islander Resort and Conference Centre
Reflections Lennox Head - Holiday park

Reflections Lennox Head - Holiday park

3 out of 5
Cnr Ross Street & Pacific Parade Lennox Head NSW
The price is ¥16,321 per night from Jun 24 to Jun 25
¥16,321
¥16,321 total
Jun 24 - Jun 25
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this beach holiday park in Ballina. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Lennox Head Beach and Lake Ainsworth ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (119 reviews)
"Very clean and very comfortable bed"

Reviewed on May 30, 2026

Reflections Lennox Head - Holiday park
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Santa Fe Motel & Holiday Units

Santa Fe Motel & Holiday Units

3 out of 5
8 Byron Street Lennox Head NSW
Book a stay at this business-friendly aparthotel in Ballina. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Lennox Head Beach and Seven Mile ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (290 reviews)
"Slightly dated motel but ok for night or two . Few minutes walk to Lennox head front easily drive to Byron bay"

Reviewed on May 26, 2026

Santa Fe Motel & Holiday Units
Lennox Beach Resort

Lennox Beach Resort

4 out of 5
7 Park Lane Lennox Head NSW
Stay at this aparthotel in Ballina. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and 2 outdoor pools. Popular attractions Lennox Head Beach and Pat Morton Lookout are located ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (467 reviews)
"Perfect location"

Reviewed on Jun 3, 2026

Lennox Beach Resort
Grandview Apartments Ballina

Grandview Apartments Ballina

4 out of 5
3-7 Grand View Street East Ballina NSW
Book a stay at this beach apartment in Ballina. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Shelly Beach and Lighthouse Beach are ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (133 reviews)
"The property far exceeded our expectations. Beautiful apartment. Everyone loved the pool and proximity to the beach. Highly recommend it to anyone."

Reviewed on Apr 7, 2026

Grandview Apartments Ballina
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Ballina attractions

Cities near Ballina

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