Located on the north coast of New South Wales, the Ballina region offers coastal views of the Pacific Ocean with lush green mountains as your backdrop. Thanks to the natural beauty of the region, the area offers plenty of outdoor activities and adventures. Once you’ve secured your campervan hire Australia, you’re ready to take on everything that Ballina has to offer. Explore this guide as you create a Ballina itinerary well suited to your needs and interests.
Beaches and Waterways
When you’re in Ballina, you’re never too far from a waterway ready for exploration and enjoyment. Ballina boasts 32 kilometres of coastline, offering an array of outdoor fun. So, take your campervan hire Australia to Bellina for some fun in the sun. You can find both patrolled beaches, including Lighthouse Beach and Seven Mile Beach, as well as unpatrolled ones like Angels Beach and Boulder Beach. Some beaches allow pets, and a few even permit horseback riding. Ballina’s beaches feature golden sand and sheltered coves. You can find a spot where calm, relaxing waters reign supreme, as well as more powerful waves perfect for surfing. You can sign up for surfing lessons from a professional instructor, or you might opt to charter a boat for some deep-sea fishing.
The Pacific Ocean isn’t the only waterway to enjoy when you’re visiting Ballina. You can also discover rivers, bays, and lakes that offer a variety of watersport opportunities. For example, check out Shaws Bay, which is an ideal spot for swimming, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The Shelley Beach Rockpools are shallow, making them ideal for families with younger children, who will enjoy splashing around. Sheltered inlets throughout Bellina Shire allow families to enjoy calm waters, fishing, and more.
Natural Adventures
Nature lovers have plenty of sites to see in Ballina. To start, cascading waterfalls are just a hike away. While not much of the Big Scrub Rainforest remains, Killen Falls leaves a lasting impression of this once-lush rainforest. You’ll discover a viewing platform on a cliff overlooking the falls, giving you a superb view of the waterfall. In Nightcap National Park, you can see the 100-metre Minyon Falls, which include a convenient viewing platform and spot for picnicking. Protesters Falls, located in the same park, is accessible via a walking path that takes you to the base of the waterfall.
Other hiking opportunities abound in scenic Ballina. The most popular just might be the aptly named Ballina Loop, which allows you to walk, jog, or bike through the area. This loop, which is mostly flat, offers views of the river, ocean, and creek. Coastal walks are easy to enjoy as well. While you’re enjoying local beaches, take in the area’s beauty by strolling from Sharpes Beach to Boulders Beach or Pat Morton Lookout. Along the Three Sisters Walking Trail, you will meander through a rainforest before taking in spectacular coastal views.
Local Culture
To learn more about Ballina, take time to stroll down the Historic Ballina Waterfront Trail. Along the way, you’ll learn about the Richmond River, the area’s Aboriginal heritage, and its European history. You’ll find coffee shops and art galleries to explore work from local artists. If the area’s Aboriginal heritage intrigues you, you have plenty of area and history to explore. Head to the Coastal Recreational Path that runs along the coastline from Angels Beach to Sharpes Beach. Here, the Aboriginal Cultural Ways allow you to view a variety of panels that inform you of the area’s history, cultural stories, landscapes, and significance. As a result, you’ll enjoy a glimpse into Ballina’s aboriginal history, all while taking in the area’s coastal beauty.
While you’re in Ballina, you’ll have plenty of photo opportunities. However, one tourist spot is a can’t miss. Head to the Big Prawn located next to Bunnings Warehouse on River Street. This 9-metre high prawn weighs a whopping 35 tonnes. Don’t forget your smartphone to snap a selfie with one of Ballina’s biggest celebrities.
Must-Visit Attractions
Your adventures in Ballina have just begun. The area boasts a number of must-see attractions that deliver fun for kids and adults alike. Summerland House Farm, located in the Alstonville Plateau, is a working macadamia and avocado farm open for exploration. You can enjoy farm tractor tours and stop by the grocery for fresh produce and nursery for local plants. Summerland House Farm also includes an on-site cafe, miniature golf course, and waterpark.
Finally, the Macadamia Castle is one of the Ballina region’s most popular attractions for the last 40 years. Check out the Animal Fun and Adventure Park, play miniature golf, or ride a train. Dine at Cafe Macca, where you can enjoy themed dishes inspired by the property’s macadamia roots.
If your campervan hire Australia takes you to New South Wales, spend a few days exploring Ballina. In addition to being an ideal spot for beach lovers, with kilometres of pristine beaches, the area also boasts a rich history worth exploring. Plus, you’ll find attractions and adventures designed to suit any taste.
