Ballina

Ballina is located in northern New South Wales, right at the mouth of the mouth of the Richmond River. Being one of the eastern most points of Australia, Ballina has stunning ocean views and is a hub of surf culture, outdoor activities and boutique stores and restaurants.

Visitors to Ballina enjoy its relaxed coastal atmosphere, while also having access to plenty of holiday activities. Guests won’t be bored, with the local Naval and Maritime Museum to visit, beaches, rainforest and a community garden to explore, as well as the opportunity to ride horses or hire surf and kayaking gear. Visitors can view Ballina from above by taking a plane or helicopter tour of the area, while the more adventurous can choose to paraglide or parasail over the stunning coastline.

For a view without the adrenaline rush, Ballina has a number of lighthouses and lookouts, as well as a historic waterfront trail that’s perfect for walking, running or cycling along the coast.

Being based on New South Wales’ far north coast, Ballina has a sub-tropical climate that provides the area with warm summers and temperate winters, making it a popular holiday destination throughout the year.

The region has a small regional airport called Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, which services domestic visitors or international and interstate travellers catching a connecting flight from a close major airport. While some visitors do choose to fly, the area is a popular stopping point for families taking a driving holiday up or down Australia’s eastern coast. For those travelling by car, one of Australia’s ‘big things’ the Big Prawn is a popular photo opportunity and stopping point.

Ballina has reported an average of 104,000 visitor nights over recent years, along with a room occupancy rate of 62.2 percent, and a total of $14.9 million in revenue from accommodation in the area.

In total, the area is home to 186 accommodation providers and food services, employing almost 10 percent of its 41,800 residents. Accommodation options in the area are suited to both basic and luxury budgets, with many options being family friendly. Visitors can choose to stay in a hotel, resort, holiday park, serviced apartment, eco-lodge, or cottage-style accommodation.