📍19 Best Fun Things To Do In Ballina, NSW. (Activities & Attractions 2024.)

LOOKING FOR THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN BALLINA, NSW?

Although Ballina is one of the largest towns along the Northern Rivers‘ spectacular coastline, it often gets overlooked due to its proximity to the globally renowned Byron Bay. It even has the second-most travelled-to domestic airport in New South Wales. But many see it as merely a gateway to the place synonymous with the idyllic Australian lifestyle. It doesn’t help that numerous A-list celebrities choose Byron Bay to settle down or visit whenever they’re in Australia.

However, as someone who has visited both places numerous times throughout my adult life, I can assure you that Ballina has plenty of appeal. From its breathtaking beaches, stunning river system, picturesque coastal trails, chill vibe and warm weather, it boasts a much more tranquil and serene atmosphere than its much more hectic neighbour, perfect for those who love peaceful beach escapes. So, if that ticks all your boxes for the ideal getaway town, here are some of the best things to do in Ballina that’ll make you wish you were there right now.

1. Enjoy Views Up & Down The Coastline.
Ballina Head Lookout.

The Ballina Head Lookout is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Ballina to get acquainted with the town’s laid-back atmosphere and enjoy stunning views of its picturesque coastline, where it offers sweeping panoramic views of two of its most beloved swimming beaches, Lighthouse Beach to the south and Shelly Beach to the north, which is easily distinguishable by its notable smattering of black rocks, rather than shells that its name suggests.

It’s not just the shoreline you can appreciate from this beautiful vantage point as it’s also a great spot to watch the surface for pods of dolphins frolicking around in the waves or whales off in the distance during the May-October/November whale watching season. Don’t forget to look up at the sky as often white-bellied sea eagles fly overhead.

What’s great about this spot is that there are benches for relaxing whilst enjoying the scenery, which is excellent if you’re looking for somewhere to witness the sunrise. Better yet, as the car park has uninterrupted views, you can drive straight in and enjoy looking out across the ocean from your vehicle, which is especially great if you visit on a day when the weather isn’t so pleasant, such as when it’s windy, rainy or in the middle of winter. And when a storm is brewing and lightning bolts illuminate the sky, well, in my lightning-loving opinion, there’s no better place to be.

Furthermore, if you want to dip your toes in the ocean, you don’t need to start the car. Just head down the stairs, and you’ll be at Lighthouse Beach. The lookout is also one of the access points for the beautiful Coastal Recreation Trail that goes from the North Wall to Pat Morton Lookout in Lennox Head (more on that below), making it one of the top places to go for many of Ballina’s best things to do.

2. See Dolphins Up Close.
Dolphins Cruise.

The Ballina Head Lookout is a great vantage point to look for dolphins from the mainland, but if you want to see these playful creatures up close, boarding 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 that allows you to sail alongside these incredible marine animals. The trip starts by heading out to the waters surrounding Lennox Head’s magnificent volcanic sea cliffs, where the dolphin’s searching experience begins.

With a marine biologist on board, you’ll also gain an in-depth understanding of beloved marine creatures, their lively antics and playful behaviours, some of which you are sure to see as you look for the agile creatures swimming about in pods and perhaps even showcase their impressive ability to launch out of the water with their signature jumps, providing you with a well-rounded, informational, up-close, second-to-none wildlife experience that is second to none.

Better yet, if on the rare occasion that the dolphins are a no-show on the trip you venture out on, you get a free return cruise guarantee, which just goes to show how many of these beautiful mammals are living out in the water off this beautiful stretch of coastline.

3. Get Up Close To Marine Giants.
Whale Watching Cruise.

If observing whales from the mainland isn’t going to cut it, and you want to see the beauty of these majestic marine animals up close, then a dedicated whale watching cruise is undoubtedly one of the top things to do in Ballina.

Departing from Ballina Wharf, this unforgettable two-hour cruise takes passengers 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 of the deep remarkably close, we’re talking virtually nose to nose thanks to their inquisitive nature and their penchant for approaching vessels, but you’ll also gain an in-depth understanding of them and their behaviours, some of which you will hopefully be able to see displayed right in front of you!

That can be anything from spy hopping, slapping their tail or pectoral fins or, even better, breaching, where they launch their entire bodies up out of the water. I was fortunate enough to have seen all of these things happen on my last whale watching cruise, while I also saw several of them on the two I did before that. But as they are wild animals, you can never guarantee what you’ll see them doing on a particular day, but it is guaranteed to be an awesome sight!

What’s also guaranteed is that you’ll 100% see whales. In the rare case that you don’t, the company provides a free return cruise. Thankfully, the chances of seeing them are exceptionally high.

That’s because, between May and November, these beautiful giants are on their annual migration up and down the east coast of Australia to reach warmer waters to breed and give birth before heading back down towards Antarctica. And with so many of them coming through and going home, that stretch of ocean is adorably known as Humpback Highway.

I highly recommend going in the latter part of the season, because that is when the babies start appearing, and you’re likely to see the little newborns swimming right alongside their full-sized mothers, making an already magical experience even more so.

4. Enjoy A Peaceful Trip Down The River.
Scenic River Cruise.

Another way to enjoy Ballina from the water is by embarking on a Scenic River Cruise along the Richmond River.

Also departing from the Ballina Wharf, this two-hour sunset trip takes passengers upstream to explore the tranquil creeks and estuaries in a small, low-to-the-river vessel. That makes it excellent for enjoying the picturesque views of the landscape cast in a beautiful organge glow and keeping your eyes peeled for the various animals that live and hunt in the river and along its shores.

From the graceful pelicans and soaring sea eagles to the playful dolphins that frequent these waterways, there’s plenty to see during this immersive experience that offers a unique perspective of this stunning coastal town and its river system.

5. Bask In The Beauty Of The Landscape From Above.
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 and observe the stunning coastline, and pristine beaches as you make your way north to overlook the most easterly point of mainland Australia, the magnificent Cape Byron Headland at the revered Byron Bay, where the brilliant white lighthouse stands out amongst the spectacular scenery.

It’s an unforgettable flight, and one of the most breathtaking ways to appreciate one of the most spectacular seascapes between Sydney and the Gold Coast, but while enjoying the gorgeous views, keep your eyes peeled for birds of prey such as white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys, whistling kites flying low and on the water for pods of dolphins, sharks, and possibly even manta rays.

During whale migration season, there’s a good chance you’ll also spot majestic humpback whales on their annual journey up and down Australia’s east coast, making this such a beautiful way to see this stunning part of the country that it’s sure to stay with you long after you’ve landed.

6. Experience The World Upside Down!
CT-4 or Yak 52 Aerobatic Flight. – $.

If that’s too tame for you, you can level up the experience tenfold and embark on an aerobatic flight so intense your gut won’t know which way is up! Board a CT-4 or a Russian Yak-52 aircraft and get an adrenaline rush like no other.

Departing from the Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, prepare for the exhilarating rush of up to 4 G-forces and zero gravity as the skilled pilot seamlessly transitions between loops, rolls, wing-overs, steep turns and more. It’ll feel like you’re in a warzone, dodging enemy fire!

The best part is, that the flight is tailored just for you! Whether you crave an endless stream of high-intensity, puke-inducing aerobatic manoeuvres or a few thrown in every now and again, simply let the pilot know. Beware, those moves can be hard on the stomach. A barf bag is on board for your convenience!

It’s a high-octane thrill-seeking adventure, but with the spectacular views overlooking the rugged coastline between the breathtaking Lennox Head and the magnificent Cape Byron and a low-level coastal dash back to the airport, it easily tops out the list of the best fun things to do in Ballina. I did a Yak-52 flight over the Gold Coast years ago and I still regard it as THE most exciting, enjoyable and satisfying thing I’ve ever done.

7. Go For A Swim, Surf Or Walk Along The Beach.
Lighthouse Beach, Shelly Beach & More.

One of the top reasons to visit coastal towns is, of course, to go for a frolic in the sea, and luckily, Ballina has no shortage of excellent beaches that are sure to satisfy travellers of every seaside preference.

Lighthouse Beach and Shelly Beaches are the town’s main haunts, as they are easily accessible and seasonally patrolled to ensure the safest ocean-swimming experience for family outings. As for those who like surfing, the North Break Wall at Lighthouse Beach delivers consistent right-handers, making it a favourite amongst those who love to ride the waves.

Sharpes Beach is another gem in Ballina, offering a more natural and quieter experience as the town’s third lifeguard-protected beach. It also has some great small right-hander breaks around Flat Rock, making it a great place to learn how to surf.

As for those who prefer peaceful walks along the foreshore, Angels Beach is a lovely place to do so. Better yet, both beaches also allow you to have fun on the sand with the company of your dogs. However, one condition is to keep them on their lead the entire time.

8. Enjoy The Sheltered Waters Of A Picturesque Cove.
Shaws Bay.

If you have kids or just prefer calmer water, one of the best free things to do in Ballina is to visit Shaws Bay. This picturesque cove is an unmissable part of the town’s endearing and idyllic charm and is a fantastic place for a family outing, a relaxing dip and a scenic walk around its circumference.

That is thanks to it being cordoned off from the Richmond River by the North Break Wall, providing a safe and serene experience away from the hazards that can arise from being in the ocean or river. Its tranquil waters are perfect for swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling, as it has some of the best seagrasses in Northern NSW with numerous small sea creatures such as fish and turtles to discover.

What’s also great about this picturesque place is that is accessible from most sides. A peaceful spot away from the road is Pop Denison Park, which has ample parking, picnic spots, BBQ facilities, a notable playground, and two beautiful beaches all within a short distance. Compton Road also has plenty more pull-in parking spaces and beach access, but my favourite spot is to head to the southern tip, from the North Rock Wall car park and sit in shallow, clear crystalline water and relax in the warmth of the sun down at that end.

9. Explore Maritime History.
Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum. – $.

As a major coastal town in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, one thing Ballina has is a notable connection to the river and the sea. Putting this on showcase front and centre is the Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum, a hidden gem tucked away in an unassuming building just behind the Visitor Information Centre.

Despite its humble exterior, the museum boasts a collection jam-packed with memorabilia and artefacts recounting the bygone days of the region’s rich nautical roots with a notable emphasis on the pivotal role the heroes who harkened from here played during the devastating World Wars.

Along with its extensive and captivating displays, the museum also houses the largest collection of highly detailed scale model replicas in Australia. When I saw the sign for that, it wasn’t something that interested me, to be honest, but walking amongst them and seeing the small-scale versions of the majestic vessels ended up being one of my favourite parts about visiting the super-affordable attractions. I say “small-scale”, but some were longer than the length of a bed!

It also pays homage to the town’s historical river boats and tugs and has interactive elements, such as tooting the fog horn on the original Las Balsas Raft and seeing the working engine makes it one of the best places in Ballina to take the kid’s and get them interested in exploring history.

10. Take Fun Selfies With The Local Big Thing.
The Big Prawn.

Australia loves Big Things. There’s the Big Banana, the Big Orange, the Big Ram, and the Big Pineapple to name a few. The nation’s love of Big Things is infamous, but sometimes they are pretty freaking random, like the Big Poo. That is not a joke. There really is a giant steaming turd near the gorgeous coastal town of Kiama. What the hell?! Okay, it’s not steaming, but it is definitely one of the most questionable and eye-raising things you’ll encounter. And the most hilarious.

Adding to the list of weird Big Things across the country is Ballina’s Big Prawn. Sure, it’s a nod to the town’s thriving prawn industry and a shoutout to “throwing a shrimp on the barbie”, but it certainly is an eye-catching behemoth of a thing to randomly come across.

What’s even stranger about this iconic landmark is that unlike the typical Big Thing, which is in a touristy part of town and sometimes has a gift shop nearby, this is as you’re driving into town in the car park of the local Bunnings Warehouse. Again, not a joke. There really is a giant prawn in the parking lot of the biggest hardware chain in the country. It’s so enormous, it’s impossible to miss driving along River Street. And, my god, I don’t think it can get any more hilariously Australian than that.

A fun little backstory: it was built in 1989 as part of a 24-hour petrol station/service station complete with shops and everything for truckers and travellers to stop by and refuel their cars and bodies. But when they built the bypass, they lost a substantial amount of business, and the buildings, including the giant prawn were to be destroyed. But public outcry over losing the beloved icon saw Bunnings come to the rescue, give it a makeover, and the rest is, as they say history.

Today, it’s a great little stop off to stretch the legs and amuse oneself with the fact that there is a big-ass seafaring creature in front of a hardware store famous sells sausages on bread and taking a fun selfie beside. It’s silly, amusing and confusing to everyone who sees it and is an endearing reflection of Australia’s delightfully quirky sense of humour.

11. Cool Off At The Local Pool.
Ballina Memorial Swimming Pool And Waterslide. – $.

Driving through downtown Ballina, it’s hard to miss the waterslides towering over the landscape like a city skyscraper. This iconic structure is connected to the town’s pool and is collectively known as the Ballina Memorial Swimming Pool & Waterslide.

With its two pools, one a 25m semi-enclosed pool and another a FINA-compliant eight-lane 50m pool, interactive children’s splash park and of course, those two massive waterslides, it is one of the best places to visit in Ballina for routine swimmers, or those just looking for a leisurely splash or high-octane water-based thrills, be it solo visitors, couples, groups of friends or for a family get-together.

While the pool complex is open year-round, it’s important to note that the waterslides are not. They are ONLY open during NSW School Holidays and public holidays and in sessions, so if planning a trip to Ballina and want to go down the slippery slides, plan your trip accordingly. Additionally, the waterslides incur an additional cost atop the pool entrance fees.

12. Take A Scenic Stroll Along The Breakwall.
Ballina North Wall.

At the southernmost end of Lighthouse Beach lies Ballina North Wall, one of two breakwalls whose primary function is to protect the mouth of the Richmond River from erosion. With lovely views looking north along the sandy coastline and back inland along the river, it’s also a fantastic scenic spot to become acquainted with the town’s relaxing vibe and peaceful seaside atmosphere.

Don’t just enjoy the scenery though, as it’s a great magnet for birds such as seagulls, and cormorants and you may even see a white-bellied sea eagle flying above! On the surface of the water, look for pods of dolphins swimming in and out of the river mouth and sometimes jellyfish and turtles are visible hanging around the rocks.

Best of all, the wall is only a short walk from the nearest car park and is entirely concreted making it wheelchair-accessible too. Furthermore, those who like long strolls or bike rides can combine this trail with the Historic Ballina Riverfront Walk that starts from the CBD and lines the waterway or the Coastal Recreation Path that follows the coast from the North Wall to Lennox Head, or do both of them in one fell swoop.

14. See The Local Lighthouse.
Richmond River Lighthouse.

While at the Ballina Head Lookout, don’t forget to head across the road to check out the Richmond River Lighthouse. It’s only a small, 7m structure, so it’s easy to not realise it even there. So, while it’s also not the most impressive structure or even in an epic location as lighthouses often are, it’s still a valuable part of Ballina’s rich marine heritage and is worth a quick detour. Cue the “Leave The Light On” song by Tom Walker.

Also known as the Ballina Head Light or simply, the Ballina Light, sits on the northern side of the Richmond River entrance, whose primary function is to safely guide boats into the river and port, lest they end up astray and dash themselves to pieces.

A fun fact about this attraction is that it’s one of four still existing and operating lighthouses of the same design along the NSW coastline between Fingal Head and Crowdy Head, done by Colonial Architect James Barnett and constructed between 1878 and 1880. However, it is considered the twin of Final Head because both have since had their adjoining rooms removed since being automated, whilst the other two have not, making it an interesting comparison if you visit the other ones, too.

15. Head Out On Your Own Boating Adventure.
Ballina Boat Hire.

One of the best things to do in Ballina if you love being out on the water and want to explore the ocean and estuaries is to go boating or kayaking/canoeing. It’s a great way to enjoy the tranquillity of the waterways and discover places you can’t get to by land and see a range of animals, such as sea eagles, turtles and dolphins, that are more likely to be seen in areas less frequented by people.

If you don’t have a boat and don’t want to join a tour, a great alternative is to hire one. Ballina Boat Hire has various tinnies available for for two, four or eight hours. Best of all, hirers don’t even need to own a boat license to be able to use these watercraft, so just about anybody can explore the beautiful waterways around this stunning coastal town.

16. Learn About Rescue Efforts For Local Animals.
Australian Seabird And Turtle Rescue.

If you have a soft spot for animals, one of the most rewarding experiences in Ballina is visiting the Australian Seabird and Turtle Rescue Centre. This commendable sanctuary is dedicated to rehabilitating sick and injured coastal dwelling land and marine animals.

While they mostly provide education school tours, and group tours for more than 10 people, they allow parties of less than that to tour their facilities during the school holidays to witness first-hand the pivotal conservation work that they undertake every day to care for beautiful creatures such as sea turtles, sea birds and sea snakes and if possible, release them back into the wild.

Just note that these public tours are conducted once a day on weekdays and exclude weekends, public holidays and several other dates listed on their websites, so be sure to check the website to see when the next ones are available and plan your trip accordingly.

17. Visit The Murals.
Ballina Reconciliation Tunnel.

One of the least-known attractions in Ballina is the Reconciliation Tunnel. This off-the-tourist trail hidden gem is located underneath The Coast Road at the southern end of Angels Beach and accessible from Beachfront Parade, the Aboriginal artwork inside is like going back in time and offers a fascinating insight into the indigenous heritage of the area by telling the fascinating creation story of the Three Brothers, and how they became the ancestral founders of the Bundjalung nation.

While Ballina holds plenty of charm, there are a few fantastic places within short driving distance that are a must-visit for anyone travelling to this stunning coastal town.

19. Walk Behind A Stunning Waterfall.
Killen Falls.

For those looking to discover something beautiful beyond the coast, one of the best nature-based things to do near Ballina is to visit Killen Falls. This stunning hidden gem right by the Pacific Highway halfway to Byron Bay is one of the best waterfalls in the vicinity and a must-visit thanks to its unique geography where it plunges majestically over an overhang.

A 1km, grade 3 track down to the base of the falls is steep in the second half, and sometimes muddy and slippery, but it’s well worth the adventure, as you can not only enjoy standing before it but can also walk behind the veil of water for a unique perspective of the stunning landscape water feature.

For those unable to reach the bottom, the first 330m of the trail is easy and leads to a lookout that provides lovely views overlooking the top part of the creek and the dark plunge pool it tumbles into.

While the falls is the main drawcard, it’s not the only place to visit here. There’s also a walking track to view the Emigrant Creek Dam spillway that feeds the spectacular natural landmark.

Byron Bay.

Byron Bay has quite the acclaim. Many people fly into Ballina just to bypass it and see the unequivocally renowned Byron Bay. But for those unaware of its status as a high-profile destination and well worth a day trip to, here’s a quick rundown.

Firstly, it’s gorgeous. With beautiful beaches and one of the state’s most breathtakingly rugged headlands, it’s a stunning spot. Furthermore, Cape Byron is home to a gorgeous lighthouse and the most easterly point on mainland Australia, offering spectacular panoramic views of the rugged coastal landscape.

Secondly, the town delicately balances a vibrant and lively atmosphere with an enviable laid-back vibe, which, along with its warm weather and natural beauty, cements it as the poster child for the idyllic Australian lifestyle.

Evans Head.

Just over a half-hour drive south of Ballina along the Pacific Highway (M1/A1), Evans Head is an outstanding choice for a day trip from Ballina, offering a unique blend of stunning natural beauty and World War II military aviation heritage.

The beaches this breathtaking coastal town is home to are spectacular. With a handful close by and even more residing within the untouched landscapes of Broadwater National Park, Dirawong Reserve and Bundjalung National Park, this place is an unforgettable heaven for those enamoured by the sea.

Adding to this place’s unique charm is the role it played in World War. The Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Museum is one of the town’s must-see attractions, providing a fascinating insight into the town’s role as a bombing and gunnery school during the war whilst walking amongst genuine, full-sized retired military aircraft, some of which you can even go inside of.

Ballina Map.

Accommodation: Where To Stay In Ballina.

• Budget: Ballina Palms Boutique Motel.
• Mid-Range: Studio Birdsong.
• Luxury: Grandview Apartments.

While often overshadowed by Byron Bay, Ballina still retains plenty of charm. For those who love splashing around at the beaches or riding the waves, the town is home to plenty of epic beaches. If you love boating and maritime history, visiting the Naval and Maritime Museum is a must.

Meanwhile, the quirkiness of the Big Prawn in the Bunnings car park is worth dropping by alone, while those who love adrenaline experiences don’t have to miss out, with sky diving one of the best things to do in Ballina. So, next time you’re thinking of flying in to see Byron, consider giving this place a visit too because I can guarantee it also has some great offerings.

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