Places worth discovering

Things to Do

Find attractions, experiences and places to visit. Events remain the best way to see what is happening on a particular date.

Looking for a dated event? Explore Events

712 places

Explore local places

Ballina Indoor Sports Centre

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Ballina Indoor Sports Centre

The Ballina Indoor Sports Centre (BISC) is your go-to destination for year round indoor sports and casual play. Conveniently located and purpose built for community sport and recreation, the BISC features two full-sized, international-standard courts line-marked for basketball, netball, futsal, volleyball and pickleball. Whether you're up for a casual game, want to shoot hoops with mates, or keen to rally for a friendly pickleball match, the BISC delivers a great indoor sports experience in comfort.

Ballina NSW

0.2 km away

Cherry Street Sports Ballina — Image credit: Cherry Street Sports Ballina

Entertainment Venues

Cherry Street Sports

Cherry Street Sports is a welcoming community club in the heart of Ballina, offering relaxed dining, live entertainment and family friendly experiences for locals and visitors alike. Open daily for lunch and dinner, Cherry Street Sports serves generous meals, weekly specials and great value dining in a casual and friendly atmosphere. Families can enjoy the dedicated kids play area and school holiday activities, while Thursday nights feature $5 kids meals with the purchase of a main meal. Kids playground and open space allows them to burn off the energy. Visitors looking to experience authentic local hospitality can enjoy live music, community events, major sporting broadcasts and social bowls, all within a relaxed setting close to Ballina's town centre. Whether you're catching up with friends, enjoying a meal after a day exploring the coast, or looking for a welcoming venue to experience the local community, Cherry Street Sports offers a genuine Ballina experience for all ages.

Ballina NSW

0.2 km away

Willow & Zee Boutique — Image credit: Willow & Zee

Shopping and Markets

Willow and Zee

Willow and Zee is a boutique fashion store located in the heart of Ballina, offering visitors a relaxed and enjoyable retail experience while exploring the region. Perfect for those seeking a little retail therapy during their stay, the boutique showcases a curated collection of contemporary women's fashion, featuring seasonal statement pieces, versatile wardrobe staples and timeless linen designs suited to the coastal lifestyle. Visitors can browse a range of clothing designed for both everyday wear and special occasions, making it easy to find something stylish and practical to suit the Northern Rivers climate. With a focus on quality fabrics, flattering silhouettes and effortless styling, Willow and Zee provides a personalised shopping experience in a welcoming setting. Conveniently positioned within Ballina's town centre, the boutique is an ideal stop between beach visits, café catch-ups or riverside walks. Whether refreshing a holiday wardrobe, finding a special piece to take home, or simply enjoying a leisurely browse, Willow and Zee offers a distinctly local shopping experience for visitors to the Ballina Coast and Hinterland.

Ballina NSW

0.3 km away

Norton Street Heritage Trail — Image credit: Norton Street Heritage Trail

Historical Sites and Heritage Locations

Norton Street Heritage Trail

This interesting heritage trail takes in Ballina's most historic precinct - Norton Street. Norton Street began as a bustling thoroughfare and transformed into Ballina's most prestigious residential address. Gorgeous houses and buildings line both sides of the street, each with its own tale to tell. A highlight of the walk is Ballina Manor Boutique Hotel, formerly North Coast Girls College, which is a heritage-listed building that now operates as an accommodation property. Flanked by hundred-year-old Norfolk Pines, this leisurely walk is the perfect way to spend an hour discovering Ballina's rich heritage. A free guide to the Norton Street Heritage Trail, including maps and a brief history of each landmark, is available from the Ballina Visitor Information Centre.

Ballina NSW

0.4 km away

Ballina Players Theatre

Entertainment Venues

Ballina Players Theatre

Ballina Players presents a regular season of comedy, drama, musicals and cabaret. With five productions each year, each production has ensured a fresh inflow of talent from Ballina and surrounding districts. Ballina Players operates from its own theatre, built in 1984 and has continued to develop and expand its production facilities and to improve the audience environment for patrons. The Players Theatre traditionally operates with a cabaret set up comfortable accommodating 140.

Ballina NSW

0.4 km away

Bikers Riders in Ballina — Image credit: Ballina Shire Council

Natural Attractions

Ballina Loop Riding Path

The Ballina Loop ride is a scenic, mostly off-road shared pathway that showcases some of Ballina's most iconic coastal views. With flat terrain and wide paths, it's an easy 11.5km ride suited to cyclists of all ages and abilities. The loop traverses along Ballina's impressive breakwall, where the Richmond River meets the sea, before continuing north along the stunning coastline toward Angels Beach. From Angels Beach, the route turns through the streets of Angels estate onto Angels Beach Drive, passing the peaceful surrounds of Prospect Lake before looping back toward Ballina's town centre. Whether you're chasing a relaxed morning ride, a family-friendly cycling adventure or simply a new path to explore, the Ballina Loop ride offers a refreshing perspective.

Ballina NSW

0.5 km away

Ballina Public Art - The Wind Never Sleeps Sculpture — Image credit: Ballina Public Art - The Wind Never Sleeps Sculpture

Galleries, Museums and Collections

The Wind Never Sleeps Sculpture

The Wind Never Sleeps is a captivating series of aluminium garden sculptures by local artist Paul Harrington, created as a physical portrayal of the interaction between wind and the environment. The work captures movement in stillness — the invisible energy of the wind expressed through elegant, sculptural form. Each piece reflects the constant dance between nature's forces, evoking a sense of flow and connection that's deeply tied to Ballina's coastal landscape. Whether experienced up close or from a distance, the sculptures shimmer and shift with changing light, echoing the rhythm of the natural world they represent. Paul Harrington is a self-taught artist whose creative journey began with a passion for photography and evolved into a love for painting and sculpture. Inspired by travel, music, and emotion, Paul's work explores the relationship between movement, place, and feeling. His artistic practice combines technical precision with expressive energy — transforming everyday materials into reflections of the landscapes and experiences that shape him.

Ballina NSW

0.5 km away

Ballina Public Art - A Place to Create — Image credit: Ballina Public Art - A Place to Create

Galleries, Museums and Collections

A Place to Create, A Place to Create, A Place that Matters

Created in 2023, A Place to Create, A Place to Share, A Place that Matters is a striking flood recovery mural by local artist Gala Jane, inspired by the resilience and spirit of the Northern Rivers community. Developed through community consultation and recovery workshops, the mural captures the three key elements that emerged from those conversations — Safe Space, Community, and Sharing. The thoughtful colour palette symbolises Ballina's identity and connection to place: Orange monochrome – representing the famous Big Prawn Blue monochrome – representing where the sea and sky meet Orange and blue together – representing the meeting of place, culture, arts, and people This powerful mural stands as a testament to creativity and connection in the face of adversity, reflecting the ongoing journey of healing and renewal after the 2022 floods. Gala Jane is a Northern Rivers mixed-media artist whose work uses text, textiles, and found objects to explore women's safety, mental health, and community resilience. A graduate of Southern Cross University, her murals and installations appear throughout the region. After losing her studio and artworks in the 2022 Lismore floods, Gala's practice now deeply examines trauma, recovery, and hope through art.

Ballina NSW

0.5 km away

Ballina Street Art Project edit — Image credit: Ballina Shire Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Folded Circle and Kaibō

Folded Circle is a mesmerising digital artwork by Northern Rivers visual artist Allan Leisk, blending mathematics, code, and nature into a single visual experience. Created through creative coding, this vinyl decal explores how algorithms can generate organic forms — revealing the harmony that exists between geometry and the natural world. Inspired by both the hard-edge paintings of the 1960s and the circular shapes found in nature, the Folded Circle algorithm uses randomness to determine colour palettes, shapes, and folds. The result is a dynamic composition of vibrant, interlocking forms that evoke the rings of a tree, ripples on water, seashell spirals, and even the orbits of planets. The Kaibō algorithm dissects organic forms into composable elements then re-forms them into a precise geometric arrangement, which gives way to emergent patterns and organic growth the closer we look. These works invites viewers to see the beauty in structure — to notice how patterns, both natural and mathematical, are woven through every part of our world. Allan Leisk is a Northern Rivers artist who creates algorithmic art through hand-coded programming — without the use of AI. His practice, under the pseudonym AutoEclectus, explores the intersection of technology, emotion, and the organic world. Through his art, Allan challenges the boundaries between digital precision and natural imperfection. His works have been exhibited internationally.

Ballina NSW

0.5 km away

Ballina Farmer & Producers Market — Image credit: Ballina Farmer & Producers Market

Shopping and Markets

Ballina Farmer & Producers Market

Shop local, eat seasonal, live well Ballina Farmers & Producers Market is held every Sunday from 7-11am in Commemoration Park on the beautiful banks of North Creek. You'll find the freshest produce direct from the farmers and artisan food made by local producers, plus live music, great coffee and delicious breakfast options right on the water. It's the perfect way to kick off a Sunday morning. Dogs on leads welcome.

Ballina NSW

0.6 km away

Bundjalung Nation and Cabbage Tree Island Connections — Image credit: Ballina Shire Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Cabbage Tree Island Connections

Welcoming visitors to the Ballina Shire Council building, this digital mural by the Saltwater Women Art Group depicts a powerful visual story of connection, culture, and Country. The artwork represents the group's part of the Bundjalung Nation and their deep ties to Ballina, Cabbage Tree Island, and the surrounding areas. Flowing across the mural is the waterway, the lifeblood of the land and a traditional source of food and community connection. Sugar cane recalls the "stripping cane days" on the island and its lasting presence in the landscape. Pippis and pig face flowers — both traditional food sources — honour the abundance of the region and the enduring relationship between people and Country. This meaningful work was inspired by the late Aunty Kath Rhodes, a respected Elder whose legacy continues to guide and connect the community. Formed in 2004, the Saltwater Women Art Group was named by respected Bundjalung Elder Gehi Yubay Dubay (Saltwater Women). Many grew up on Cabbage Tree Island, and their collaborative works reflect traditional movements of their ancestors and the deep cultural knowledge tied to the land and sea of the Northern Rivers.

Ballina NSW

0.6 km away

Frangipani Skin & Body — Image credit: phildate

Spas and Retreats

Frangipani Skin & Body

Frangipani Skin & Body is the North Coast's leading anti-ageing medi spa, offering a luxurious retreat dedicated to skin health, relaxation and renewal. Set in a tranquil environment, the outdoor hydrotherapy spa provides the perfect space to unwind, restore balance and escape the everyday. Equipped with state-of-the-art technology and supported by a team of highly trained professionals, every visit is designed to leave you feeling refreshed, relaxed and confident. Frangipani Skin & Body takes a holistic approach, creating an experience that is as nurturing as it is results-driven. The experienced team of Dermal and Advanced Beauty Therapists are passionate about helping clients achieve long-term skin confidence through personalised care. Detailed consultations and tailored treatment plans consider not only the skin itself, but also the impact of stress, hormones, mental wellbeing and gut health, ensuring the best possible outcomes. From advanced skin treatments to moments of deep relaxation, Frangipani Skin & Body offers a thoughtful journey of discovery, self-care and rejuvenation on the Northern Rivers.

Ballina NSW

0.6 km away

Ballina Public Art - Homeward Currents Osprey — Image credit: Ballina Public Art - Homeward Currents Osprey

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Homeward Currents Osprey

Located on the roundabout on the corner of Tamar and Cherry Street, and best viewed from one of the adjacent footpaths, Homeward Currents – Osprey is a striking public sculpture by Northern Rivers artist Leith Walton. The sculpture was created to celebrate the beauty and sacredness of native birds and their connection to Ballina's rivers and coastline. Crafted from corten steel and recycled timber, the sculpture reflects the natural environment — its earthy tones and organic form echoing the flight and grace of the osprey, a species commonly seen soaring over the Richmond River. An aerial perspective of the Richmond River catchment patterns the bird's wings capturing a moment of motion and meaning, reminding viewers of the interwoven relationship between land, water, and wildlife. Leith Walton grew up in the rainforests of northern New South Wales and has always been inspired by the natural world. His creative practice spans illustration, sculpture, and murals — blending whimsy, fantasy, and environmental storytelling. Working in both traditional and digital mediums, Leith's art explores the intersection of beauty, imagination, and structure. His public artworks, such as Homeward Currents, are designed to be both visually captivating and deeply connected to place.

Ballina NSW

0.6 km away

Ballina Bargain Centre — Image credit: Ballina Bargain Centre

Shopping and Markets

Ballina Bargain Centre

The Ballina Bargain Centre is a local op shop offering a wide range of affordable pre-loved goods, from furniture and homewares to clothing, toys and more. Take your time browsing the ever changing selection and discover hidden treasures practical finds and great value bargains. Every purchase also helps support local community and contributes to important community services.

Ballina NSW

0.6 km away

Ballina Street Art Project Kate Stroud — Image credit: Ballina Shire Council

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Ballina Postage Stamps

Discover a colourful tribute to Ballina's character and charm with Ballina Postage Stamps, a large-scale mural by local artist Kate Stroud. Best viewed from Tamar Street footpath, near the bus terminal. This vibrant artwork captures the spirit of the Northern Rivers through a series of nostalgic postage stamps and postcards — each celebrating something uniquely Ballina. From the legendary surfing prawn and banksia blooms, to the seasonal whale migration, waterslide, and pipis on the beach, Kate brings the town's icons to life with bold colour and creativity. Designed to transform a once-grey wall into a joyful celebration of place, the mural's warm palette and playful detail make it a perfect photo stop and reminder of Ballina's seaside charm. Postcards featuring the artwork are available from the Northern Rivers Community Gallery, so visitors can send a little piece of Ballina to loved ones near and far. Kate Stroud is a Northern Rivers artist, signwriter, and large-scale muralist known for her joyful, thought-provoking, and community-driven works. Her art adorns laneways, walls, and businesses across the region, reflecting the outspoken and creative spirit of the Northern Rivers. A passionate advocate for a vibrant local arts scene, Kate's work celebrates community, identity, and resilience.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

Ballina Public Art - Suvira McDonald Steel Sculpture — Image credit: Ballina Public Art - Suvira McDonald Steel Sculpture

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Regatta

Regatta is a striking steel sculpture by local artist Suvira McDonald, inspired by the rhythm and beauty of Ballina's river culture. The artwork reflects the lively atmosphere of weekends when the sails of the local sailing club sweep across the river's surface — a scene of movement, light, and community connection. Located on a vertical wall in the external courtyard, of the building, the sculpture's net-like forms are delicately embedded with fish motifs, evoking the flow of water and the abundance of aquatic life. With its elegant curves and dynamic composition, Regatta captures the essence of the Richmond River — fluid, reflective, and deeply tied to the town's identity. Suvira McDonald is a Northern Rivers artist whose practice spans ceramics, sculpture, and mixed media. He holds a Diploma in Ceramics and a Master's Degree in Visual Art from Southern Cross University. Over a career spanning three decades, Suvira has taught ceramics and sculpture, exhibited widely, and received numerous awards. His works combine materials such as steel, wood, stone, and ceramics, often exploring natural rhythms, form, and texture.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

Vintage Shirts

Shopping and Markets

Bunnyhole Vintage

Bunnyhole Vintage is a quirky boutique in Ballina offering unique vintage, retro, and recycled fashion. It offers a diverse collection spanning from the 1940s to modern designer labels, with styles like western wear and pinup. All items are meticulously cleaned and quality assured with new arrivals daily for fashion enthusiasts of all genders. For those seeking something a little different or love pre-loved fashion items, this is a must visit.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

Vinnies Ballina — Image credit: Vinnies Ballina

Shopping and Markets

Vinnies Ballina

Located in Ballina, Vinnies is a popular local op shop offering a diverse range of quality pre loved clothing, homewares and other second hand treasures. Its a great place to browse for a bargain, find something unique and shop more sustainably, while supporting the important work of St Vincent de Paul Society. Purchases made at Vinnies help support programs and services assisting people experiencing hardship within the community. The organisation is committed to creating a more just and compassionate society by providing practical assistance, support and hope to people in need. Whether you're searching for a wardrobe find, useful household item or simply enjoy exploring op shops, Vinnies Ballina is well worth a browse.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

Salvo's Boutique Store Op Shop — Image credit: Salvo's Boutique Store Op Shop

Shopping and Markets

Salvos Boutique Store

Salvos Boutique Ballina is a centrally located op shop on Ballina's main street, offering a wide selection of quality pre-loved items donated by the local community. The store provides an accessible and enjoyable shopping experience for visitors and locals alike. Shoppers will find an ever-changing range of affordable second-hand goods, including clothing, shoes, furniture, homewares, books and toys. From unique vintage pieces to everyday essentials, there is something to suit a variety of styles and needs. All proceeds from Salvos Boutique Ballina directly support The Salvation Army's programs and services across Australia. Visiting the store offers the opportunity to shop sustainably while contributing to community initiatives that make a positive impact nationwide.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

Westpac Helicopter Rescue Op Shop — Image credit: Westpac Helicopter Rescue Op Shop

Shopping and Markets

Westpac Helicopter Rescue Op Shop

The Westpac Helicopter Rescue Op Shop in Ballina offers a variety of clean clothing, linen, bedding, footwear, and general bric-a-brac. Every purchase made directly supports the lifesaving work of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service. The funds raised are crucial in helping keep the helicopters in the air and ready to assist the community in times of need. All donations and purchases make a real difference in saving lives, as the continued support ensures that they can continue this vital service.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

Ballina Public Art - Make Your Mark — Image credit: Ballina Public Art - Make Your Mark

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Make Your Mark

Step into Wigmore Arcade and discover Make Your Mark, a delightful piece of integrated public art featuring hand-crafted clay pavers created by local grandparents and their grandchildren and facilitated by ceramic artists Linda Cunningham and Lisa Arronis. Each paver is a small artwork in itself — inspired by what young and older generations love about Ballina. The piece celebrates what creativity and intergenerational connection, inviting locals and visitors alike to quite literally walk across the mark of Ballina's makers. Pebuku Pottery (Linda Cunningham and Lisa Arronis) is the creative dream of two sisters who share a passion for working with their hands and crafting everyday objects that are both functional and beautiful. Using the finest Australian porcelain clay, they design and create pieces inspired by texture, form, and colour, often drawing on nature and nostalgia. Their work celebrates the charm of handmade objects and the meaningful connection between artist, object, and user.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

Ballina Public Art - Ballina's Coastal Flora — Image credit: Ballina Public Art - Ballina's Coastal Flora

Landmarks and Buildings

Ballina's Coastal Flora

Brightening the laneway that links River Street and Winton Lane, Ballina Coastal Flora is a vibrant mural by local artist Tom Gerrard. Painting murals gives Gerrard the chance to connect with local communities and draw inspiration from the people and places around him. For this piece, he chose a light, uplifting colour palette to bring warmth to the laneway and incorporated tall, coastal-inspired forms that rise above passersby — echoing the flora that shapes Ballina's coastal landscape. Tom Gerrard is a celebrated Australian painter whose work explores suburban life and the natural world. Known for his bold, graphic style and signature black outlines, Gerrard's murals can be found around the globe — from London and Berlin to Quito and Rio de Janeiro. His works have been exhibited internationally and are held in the National Gallery of Australia and the National Gallery of Victoria.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

Wallace & Co — Image credit: Akubra or Wallace & Co

Shopping and Markets

Wallace and Co

Proudly serving the Northern Rivers since 1895, Wallace and Co is a cherished family-owned business in the heart of Ballina. With over four generations of heritage, this iconic store continues to deliver exceptional quality, timeless style and friendly, personal service. Discover premium men's and women's clothing, footwear and accessories from trusted brands including Akubra, Birkenstock, Blundstone and R.M. Williams. Each piece is chosen for its craftsmanship, durability and classic design, perfect for life on the coast or in the country. More than just a clothing store, Wallace and Co is part of Ballina's story, where locals and visitors alike can experience genuine service and shop Australian heritage brands. Whether you're updating your wardrobe or searching for a thoughtful gift, you'll find something special here. Step into Wallace and Co and experience a blend of old-fashioned charm and contemporary style that's stood the test of time.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

Red Earth Jewellery — Image credit: Red Earth Jewellery

Shopping and Markets

Red Earth Jewellery

Locally owned and operated since 2011, Red Earth is a treasured Ballina boutique offering a beautiful selection of quality semi-precious stones, crystals and sterling silver jewellery at affordable prices. The knowledgeable owners can custom-make unique pieces and also provide professional jewellery repairs, ensuring every item receives the care and craftsmanship it deserves. The store showcases an impressive collection of unusual and eye-catching gifts, along with a vast range of gemstones-including stunning Australian opals. With its focus on sterling silver and its thoughtfully curated displays, Red Earth offers a memorable shopping experience for anyone who appreciates precious stones, handcrafted jewellery and one-of-a-kind treasures.

Ballina NSW

0.7 km away

What is happening now?

Search dated events, markets, live music, sport and community activities.

Planning by place?

Use Things to Do for attractions and experiences that are not tied to one event date.