Nestled along the picturesque coast of New South Wales, Ballina is a hidden gem that offers a mix of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and rich history. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking to relax, Ballina has something for everyone. Here are our top 10 picks for Things to do in Ballina in this charming town.
Key Takeaways
- Ballina Head Lookout provides stunning views of the coastline and is perfect for spotting dolphins and whales.
- A Dolphins Cruise offers a close-up experience with playful dolphins in their natural habitat.
- The Whale Watching Cruise is a must-do during the whale migration season for an unforgettable encounter with these majestic creatures.
- Enjoy a peaceful Scenic River Cruise along the Richmond River, taking in the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
- For a bird’s-eye view of Ballina, take a Scenic Flight and marvel at the breathtaking landscapes from above. If you’re looking for things to do in ballina, these activities are sure to impress.
Ballina Head Lookout
Ballina Head Lookout is one of the best spots to get a feel for the town’s relaxed vibe. From here, you can enjoy stunning views of the coastline, including Lighthouse Beach to the south and Shelly Beach to the north. The lookout offers a great vantage point to spot dolphins playing in the waves or even whales during the May to November whale watching season.
What’s really cool about this spot is that you can drive right up to the lookout and enjoy the view from your car. This is perfect for those days when the weather isn’t great. If you want to get closer to the water, just head down the stairs to Lighthouse Beach.
The lookout is also a starting point for the Coastal Recreation Trail, which goes from the North Wall to Pat Morton Lookout in Lennox Head. This makes it a great place to start your adventure in Ballina.
If you’re lucky, you might even see white-bellied sea eagles flying overhead. It’s a sight you won’t forget!
Don’t miss out on this spot when you’re in Ballina. It’s a perfect place to relax and take in the beauty of the area.
Dolphins Cruise
If you want to see dolphins up close, a dedicated dolphin cruise is a must. Setting sail from Lance Ferris Wharf in downtown Ballina, the Cruise With Dolphins outing operated by Out Of The Blue Adventures offers an unforgettable ocean adventure. You’ll sail alongside these incredible marine animals, starting by heading out to the waters surrounding Lennox Head’s magnificent volcanic sea cliffs.
With a marine biologist on board, you’ll gain an in-depth understanding of these beloved creatures. You’ll see their lively antics and playful behaviors, like swimming in pods and jumping out of the water. It’s a well-rounded, up-close wildlife experience.
Better yet, if the dolphins are a no-show, you get a free return cruise guarantee. This just shows how many of these beautiful mammals live in the waters off this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Whale Watching Cruise
If you want to see the beauty of whales up close, then a whale watching cruise is a must-do in Ballina. Departing from Ballina Wharf, this unforgettable two-hour cruise takes you out into the waters off the spectacular Cape Byron coastline, the most easterly point of mainland Australia, and deep into humpback whale territory.
With a marine biologist on board, you’ll not only get to see these incredible animals remarkably close, but you’ll also gain an in-depth understanding of them and their behaviors. You might see them spy hopping, slapping their tails, or even breaching! I was lucky enough to see all these amazing actions on my last cruise.
Between May and November, these beautiful giants are on their annual migration up and down the east coast of Australia. This stretch of ocean is adorably known as the Humpback Highway. The chances of seeing them are exceptionally high, and in the rare case that you don’t, the company provides a free return cruise.
I highly recommend going in the latter part of the season because that is when the babies start appearing. You’re likely to see the little newborns swimming right alongside their full-sized mothers, making an already magical experience even more so.
Scenic River Cruise
One of the best ways to enjoy Ballina from the water is by taking a Scenic River Cruise along The River Moy. Departing from Ballina Wharf, this two-hour sunset trip takes you upstream to explore the peaceful creeks and estuaries. The small, low-to-the-river vessel is perfect for enjoying the beautiful views of the landscape cast in a lovely orange glow.
Keep your eyes peeled for the various animals that live and hunt in the river and along its shores. From graceful pelicans and soaring sea eagles to playful dolphins, there’s plenty to see during this immersive experience. It’s a unique way to see this stunning coastal town and its river system.
Scenic Flight
One of the most unforgettable ways to take in the breathtaking beauty of Ballina is by soaring above it on a scenic flight. Choose between a helicopter or a light aircraft and take off from the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the coastline and pristine beaches. It’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve landed.
During the flight, you’ll head north to overlook the most easterly point of mainland Australia, the magnificent Cape Byron Headland at the revered Byron Bay. The brilliant white lighthouse stands out amongst the spectacular scenery, making it a sight to behold.
While enjoying the gorgeous views, keep your eyes peeled for birds of prey such as white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys, and whistling kites. On the water, you might spot pods of dolphins, sharks, and possibly even manta rays. This is truly one of the most unforgettable ways to see Ballina from above.
CT-4 or Yak 52 Aerobatic Flight
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the CT-4 or Yak 52 Aerobatic Flight is a must-try! Departing from the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, you’ll experience up to 4 G-forces and zero gravity as the skilled pilot performs loops, rolls, wing-overs, and steep turns. It’s like being in a warzone, dodging enemy fire!
The best part? The flight is tailored just for you. Whether you want non-stop aerobatic maneuvers or just a few, let the pilot know. But be warned, these moves can be tough on the stomach, so a barf bag is provided for your convenience.
This high-octane adventure offers spectacular views of the rugged coastline between Lennox Head and Cape Byron. It’s easily one of the best things to do in Ballina.
I did a Yak-52 flight over the Gold Coast years ago, and it remains the most exciting and satisfying experience I’ve ever had.
Lighthouse Beach
Lighthouse Beach is one of Ballina’s most popular spots, and it’s easy to see why. This beach is perfect for swimming, surfing, or just taking a relaxing walk along the shore. The North Break Wall at Lighthouse Beach is a favorite among surfers, offering consistent right-hand waves that are great for riding. If you’re more into swimming, the beach is seasonally patrolled to ensure a safe experience for everyone.
For those who love a good walk, the views from all vantage points are simply stunning. You can stroll along the beach and take in the beautiful scenery, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful day out. Lighthouse Beach is a must-visit for anyone coming to Ballina.
If you’re planning a visit, don’t forget to bring your hiking shoes, especially if it’s been raining. The paths can get a bit slippery, but the gorgeous views make it all worth it.
Shelly Beach
Shelly Beach is one of Ballina’s most charming spots. It’s a great place to relax, swim, or just enjoy the beautiful scenery. The beach is known for its picturesque rocks and serene atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for a peaceful day out.
If you’re into surfing, Shelly Beach offers some nice waves, especially for beginners. The beach is also a lovely place for a walk, with stunning views of the coastline. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the natural beauty.
For those who love nature, the nearby Belleek Woods provide a wonderful backdrop to your beach day. You can take a leisurely stroll through the woods and enjoy the tranquility.
Shelly Beach is a must-visit for anyone coming to Ballina. Its unique charm and natural beauty make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Shaws Bay
Shaws Bay is a beautiful spot in Ballina, perfect for a family outing or a relaxing day by the water. The bay is separated from the Richmond River by the North Break Wall, making it a safe and serene place to swim. The calm waters are ideal for activities like stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. You might even spot some small sea creatures like fish and turtles among the seagrasses.
One of the best things about Shaws Bay is its accessibility. You can reach it from various points, and there’s plenty of parking available. Pop Denison Park is a peaceful area with picnic spots, BBQ facilities, and a playground. It’s a great place to spend the day with family or friends.
For those who enjoy walking, the Shaws Bay Loop is a 3.4 km trail that goes around the bay. The trail also connects to the Ballina Head Lookout and the Coastal Recreation Path, offering stunning views and a chance to explore more of Ballina’s natural beauty.
If you’re looking for a quiet spot to relax, head to the southern tip of the bay near the North Rock Wall car park. The shallow, clear water is perfect for sitting back and soaking up the sun. Shaws Bay is truly a gem in Ballina, offering something for everyone.
Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum
Nestled in a charming red brick 19th-century Victorian building on Pearse Street, the Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum is a treasure trove of nautical history. Overlooking the banks of the River Moy, this museum is the perfect spot to explore on a rainy day. It’s the biggest naval museum in the Southern Hemisphere and is run entirely by dedicated volunteers.
Inside, you’ll find more than 100,000 items spanning the past 400 years. The collection includes the famous La Balsa raft and numerous boat models, offering a fascinating glimpse into maritime history. The museum’s peaceful atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and forget your worries.
If you’re interested in local culture, don’t miss the nearby Ballina Arts Centre, which hosts a variety of exhibitions, theater performances, and concerts. For those keen on genealogy, the North Mayo Heritage Centre offers extensive research facilities and cultural programs. And if you’re a fan of fine spirits, the Connacht Whiskey Company is also worth a visit.
