 From the ancient rainforests and tea-tree plantations to the lush hinterland and the clear blue waters of its rivers, lakes and beaches, Ballina and its surrounds are truly natural wonders.
Ballina - centered on an island at the mouth of the Richmond River - is surrounded by 32 kilometres of white, sandy beaches and seemingly endless, crystal waterways. It’s a natural fun park for beach lovers,
surfers, boaties, anglers and eco-adventurers. The town centre is lined with stylish cafes and restaurants where you can sample the famous local seafood and, of course, there are plenty of classic country pubs. Museums showcase Ballina’s colourful history while theatres and galleries showcase the many visual and performing artists. Enjoy a cruise on the Richmond River or explore the wetlands of North Creek’s upper reaches by canoe.
The laid-back village of Lennox Head is best known for its excellent surf breaks at Boulders and Lennox Point. The more adventurous can take to the skies on a hang-glider. Hidden behind the white sands of Lennox’s Seven Mile Beach is Lake Ainsworth. The fresh waters of the Lake are stained "billy-tea" dark by the tea trees that fringe its banks. Take the plunge into its deep red waters or skim its surface on a sailboard, ‘cat’ or canoe. Lake Ainsworth is also where Lennox’s colourful monthly markets - second and fifth Sundays - are held, and you can even camp on the foreshores.
Away from the coast, the lush hinterland is punctuated by pioneer settlements like Teven, Tintenbar and Knockrow, where you can enjoy a round of golf, savour the tropical regional cuisine especially from the
surrounding coffee, macadamia, avocado, stonefruit and banana plantations. The village of Alstonville is an Aladdin’s cave for curious hunters and culture buffs with its historic buildings, classic Australian architecture, galleries and antique shops and intimate cafes and tea-houses.
Great vanatage points to view the annual migration of humpback whales include Ballina lighthouse, Skennars Head, Pat Morton Lookout. For more information contact: 02 6686 3484
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