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Natural Attractions
Located below Ballina Headland, Shelly Beach is nestled between Lighthouse Beach and Angels Beach in East Ballina. Fringed by pandanus trees and connected to the scenic coastal walking and cycling track. This patrolled beach is a popular place for swimming, beach walks and enjoying the stunning coastline with public amenities close by Dogs are not permitted on Shelly Beach.
East Ballina NSW
4.4 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Located along the Cultural Ways Path in East Ballina, this solemn site honours the Bundjalung people who lost their lives in the 1853–1854 East Ballina Massacre. The East Ballina Massacre Memorial stands as a powerful symbol of truth-telling, remembrance, and healing, recognising a painful chapter in Australia's colonial history. Set just 100 metres from the northern end of Shelly Beach Road, the memorial invites visitors to pause and reflect on the profound loss experienced by the Bundjalung community. This is more than a historical marker – it is a space that fosters understanding, respect, and connection to Aboriginal history and culture. Visitors are encouraged to walk the Cultural Ways Path mindfully, paying respect to the Traditional Custodians of the land. The site is part of ongoing efforts to acknowledge past injustices and to honour the resilience and strength of First Nations people. Whether you're tracing the region's heritage or seeking deeper cultural awareness, the East Ballina Massacre Site serves as a vital point of reflection and recognition on the Bundjalung Nation's story.
East Ballina NSW
4.5 km away
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Landmarks and Buildings
Perched atop the picturesque coastline, the Ballina Lighthouse is a beacon of history and natural beauty. Overlooking Shelly Beach and Lighthouse Beach, this iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and North Wall. It's a perfect spot for whale watching during migration season or simply soaking in a stunning sunrise. The lighthouse itself stands as a tribute to Ballina's rich maritime heritage - which you can learn more about at the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an avid photographer, the Ballina Lighthouse is a great spot to visit whilst in Ballina.
East Ballina NSW
4.6 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Discover the Reconciliation Tunnel Murals at Black Head, Angels Beach, Ballina. These vibrant artworks tell the Dreamtime Story of the Three Brothers — Yarbirri, Mamoon and Burrung — the ancestral founders of the Bundjalung Nation. As you walk through the tunnel, you'll be immersed in a powerful visual journey that honours connection to Country, community and culture. Easily accessed via the Coastal Recreational Path, the Reconciliation Tunnel Murals are a meaningful stop along Ballina's spectacular coastline. The location at Angels Beach provides the perfect setting to reflect, learn and appreciate the stories that have shaped this land for thousands of years. A must-visit for those interested in Aboriginal culture, public art and local history, the murals offer a memorable experience that connects visitors to the spirit of the Ballina Coast and Hinterland. Parking is available nearby at Angels Beach car park, with the path leading south from the carpark to the art site located in pedestrian underpass between The Coastal Recreational Path and Bayview Drive. Come and experience a powerful piece of living culture on your next visit to Ballina.
East Ballina NSW
4.6 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Explore the rich Aboriginal heritage amongst the beauty of the Ballina coastline. The Aboriginal Cultural Ways is located on the Coastal Recreational Path at Angels Beach, East Ballina stretching north along the coastline to Sharpes Beach then continuing on to Lennox Point with QR code signage. The pathway is set back from the beach amongst the trees and surrounded by stunning scenery. Take a historical journey along this part of Ballina's coastline and learn about the special significance of the Aboriginal people and their cultural heritage through 22 panels of interpretive information. Ballina Shire Council has worked with Jali Local Aboriginal Land Council and members of Ballina Shire's Aboriginal community to produce a series of panels to recognise the special significance of this path to Aboriginal people. Stories along the path provide a mix of themes including historical events, cultural stories, landscape, language and significance of place. Members of the Aboriginal community have chosen to share their stories with users of the path to provide an insight into the cultural significance of this landscape and maintain their connection to Country. Before you visit, it's recommended that you download a QR code scanner app. This can be done by visiting your smart phone's app store. QR codes will be used in conjunction with the signage to provide complementary material along the path with audio content.
East Ballina NSW
4.6 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Mackay Harrison Galleries was established in 1978 as a very futuristic and progressive provincial art gallery located in Ballina NSW with a mixed stable of professional artists from the very traditional school, through to modern and contemporary work. The gallery's focus has always been on cultivating a stable of full-time Australian artists that represent a comprehensive and poignant view of the arts from emerging and established artists with an ever-changing number of works. This is the only venue in Australia which houses the entire collection of David's fabulous Bronzes along with his paintings.
East Ballina NSW
4.7 km away
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Natural Attractions
Whether your little one is dipping their toes in for the first time or you're a seasoned surfer chasing the perfect wave, Ballina’s breathtaking 32km coastline has something for everyone. Swim in calm, sandy inlets along the Richmond River, ride the rolling swells at one of Ballina’s many stunning beaches, or take on world-class waves at Lennox Point’s legendary right-hand break. North Wall often delivers perfect barrels, while gentle waves make other spots ideal for body bashing and boogie boarding. Looking for adventure? Drive onto designated beaches with a 4WD or explore dog-friendly and horse-friendly stretches of sand. For a truly unforgettable experience, book a guided horse ride along one of the region’s secluded beaches, north or south of Ballina. With golden sands, pristine waters, and endless opportunities for fun, Ballina’s beaches are the kind you see on postcards—only better, because here, you can experience them for yourself!
East Ballina NSW
4.8 km away
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Natural Attractions
Lighthouse Beach is one of Ballina's most popular beaches, offering a beautiful stretch of coastline for swimming, surfing, beach walks and relaxing by the ocean. Located between Ballina Headland and the Richmond River North Wall, this 500-metre beach is a favourite with locals and visitors. The northern end offers protection when the northerly winds pick up, thanks to the nearby headland. The beach is also patrolled during school holidays and selected weekends over the summer months, making it a popular spot for families. Always swim between the red and yellow flags when lifeguards are on duty. Walking tracks at either end of Lighthouse Beach lead to Ballina Headland and the North Wall, where you'll find fantastic coastal views and opportunities to spot dolphins and migrating whales. There's plenty of nearby parking, and if you're ready for a coffee or bite to eat, stop by the beachfront kiosk and enjoy the ocean views. Popular for surfing, swimming and coastal walks, Lighthouse Beach is also close to Ballina accommodation including Quality Hotel Ballina, Discovery Parks Ballina and Grandview Apartments. If you're searching for beaches in Ballina, Lighthouse Beach is well worth adding to your Ballina Coast itinerary.
East Ballina NSW
4.8 km away
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Natural Attractions
With Shaws Bay on one side and the Richmond River on the other, this easy walk will allow you to enjoy some of Ballina's most beautiful marine assets. Park at Brighton Street and follow the footpath heading out along the break wall. Meander past little bays and rockpools, take in the tidal Shaws Bay, watch the trawlers leave or return in the Richmond River and finish by watching the surfers at Lighthouse Beach. Keep an eye out for birdlife such as Osprey and Pelicans and quite possibly dolphins in the river between the breakwalls - a local sight that is very common!
East Ballina NSW
4.8 km away
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Historical Sites and Heritage Locations
Be guided by the late Uncle Ricky Cook, Nyangbal Elder, along the Water Stories walk — a cultural and historical journey tracing Ballina's riverfront. This interpretive trail follows the north break wall, curves around Shaws Bay and continues into Fawcett Park, sharing stories of how water — guung in the Nyangbal language — has shaped Country, community and daily life for thousands of years. Along the way, 23 contemporary signs reveal the deep connection Nyangbal families hold with this place, alongside insights into the early settlers who arrived in the nineteenth century. Themes of Country, culture, resilience and river life weave through the experience, with Uncle Ricky's narration offering a lasting cultural legacy. You can enjoy Water Stories in two ways. Walk the full 4.5-kilometre signposted trail between Fawcett Park and the Marine Rescue Tower, taking in river views and story points at your own pace. Or immerse yourself in the Water Stories Soundtrail, a geo-located audio experience that adds a deeper layer of storytelling. Simply scan the QR codes along the route or download the Soundtrails app. The audio-guided walk follows a shorter 1.4-kilometre journey from the Marine Rescue Tower to Pioneer Memorial Park, automatically playing each story as you enter its zone. Water Stories invites locals and visitors alike to listen, reflect and connect with the river and its layered histories.
Ballina NSW
4.8 km away
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Natural Attractions
Flat Rock is arguably one of the most desired beaches and the most easterly point of this coastline. It is a very popular surfing spot for new and experienced surfers due to the rocky outcrop creating a surf break. The rock pools are home to lots of marine life and are great to explore when the tide is low, making this beach popular with families. It is also home to a lot of birds, so you often see bird watchers looking for specific species. Flat Rock Tent Park is located just behind the dunes, making it a perfect place to camp for beach and fishing lovers. Toilets and showers are available in the car park, and a beach is patrolled in the school holidays. Flat Rock is dog-friendly, but they must remain on a leash at all times.
East Ballina NSW
5.0 km away
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Natural Attractions
Angels Beach is a long and quiet stretch of beach that is generally uncrowded making it perfect for beach walkers. It is beautifully bordered by natural vegetation growing on sand dunes but please note it is not a patrolled beach so be mindful about rips and strong currents in this area. Angels Beach is dog-friendly but dogs must be on the lead. For the bird watchers, you will often spot birds such as Osprey, Pied Oyster Catchers and Rainbow Bee Eaters on this beach.
East Ballina NSW
5.2 km away
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Parks and Gardens
Set amongst the banksias, tuckeroos and scribby gums along the edge of Shaws Bay, Pop Denison Park is a dream come true for kids. This new playground includes swings, flying foxes, slides, climbing zones, mud cafes and more. Pop Denison park caters for kids of all ages and is positioned perfectly next to Shaws Bay with picnic, barbeque and shower facilities all within the area. This great park is located on the Shaws Bay loop section of our Coastal Recreation Path making it a great stop for families who are out cycling for the day.
East Ballina NSW
5.2 km away
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Natural Attractions
Sharpes Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline between Flat Rock Beach and Skennars Headland, popular for surfing, swimming, beach walks and spotting dolphins in the waves. Easily accessible from Coast Road, the beach is also dog friendly (leash required), it is also a great starting point for the coastal walk heading towards Lennox Head, walk to Pat Morton and back and enjoy a well-deserved swim.
East Ballina NSW
5.3 km away
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Natural Attractions
Shaws Bay has always been a popular spot for leisure activities such as picnicking, swimming, snorkelling, canoeing and walking. This beautiful tidal bay was formed when the northern wall of the Richmond River was constructed near the river entrance. The bay has sandy beaches, a shared pathway around the bay and is a great spot for families. This scenic and popular area has varied landforms ranging from gently sloping beaches to a steep sandy escarpment which includes littoral rainforest species. The seagrasses in the bay are regarded as some of the best in Northern NSW and provide an ideal environment for safe snorkeling. Along Compton Drive this swimming spot is easily accessible for those with mobility issues to create an enjoyable recreation area. Wide ramp access down to the sand in low tide or water in high tide, two disabled parking bays and seating. Access Shaws Bay via Pop Denison Park and you will find accessible toilets, an outdoor shower and footpath around the bay however access to the water for people with limited mobility is a little more natural - no ramps and access is across grass and sand to get to water. Bring the family down for a fun day at Pop Denison Park.
East Ballina NSW
5.4 km away
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Natural Attractions
If you're after an easy coastal stroll with big views and plenty of spots to pause along the way, the Shaw's Bay loop walk is for you. Approximately 3.1 kilometres, this relaxed circuit wraps right around the calm waters of Shaw's Bay, delivering a scenic mix of the Richmond River, sheltered bay views and saltmarsh. The full loop is perfect for a casual morning wander, a sunset walk, or a quick leg stretch between swims and coffees. The path hugs the shoreline and offers uninterrupted views across the bay. Starting anywhere along the foreshore, suggested places to park are Compton Dr, Fenwick Dr, Pop Denison or the Marine Rescue Tower. Keep an eye out for dolphins cruising past in the river, the jumping mullet and the endangered eastern cod in the bay. Flat, accessible and effortlessly scenic, the Shaw's Bay loop is one of Ballina's favourite everyday walks.
East Ballina NSW
5.4 km away
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Natural Attractions
One of the most scenic sections of the Ballina Coastal Recreation Path is the walk from Sharpes Beach to Pat Morton Lookout. This easy coastal stroll rewards walkers with sweeping views of the Ballina coastline. Starting at Sharpes Beach, the path follows the headland offering dramatic clifftop views. It's the kind of walk where you'll find yourself slowing down, camera in hand, as the scenery does most of the talking. Along the way, pandanus trees between Sharpes Beach and Boulders Beach provide shady spots to stop and enjoy a picnic. At Boulders Headland, take a moment to watch the surfers before continuing along the path towards Lennox Head. The walk leads to Pat Morton Lookout, offering uninterrupted views stretching north along the coastline towards Byron Bay. On a clear day, you can spot Cape Byron Lighthouse in the distance. During whale migration season (May to November), this stretch of coastline is one of Ballina's best vantage points for spotting humpback whales on their annual journey. The walk is approximately 3km one way, making it perfect for families, walkers and pets (on leash). Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. Whether you're after a peaceful stroll, a scenic photo stop or a prime whale-watching perch, this coastal walk is a must-do when visiting Ballina Coast & Hinterland.
Ballina NSW
5.7 km away
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Galleries, Museums and Collections
Nestled within the Aureus Estate Neighbourhood Park at Skennars Head, Aureus Cubby is a beautifully tactile sculpture by artist Jade Oakley, designed to spark curiosity and play. The Aureus Cubby is a climbable sculpture inspired by nature and by the way children interact with their environment. Akin to a grotto or rock pool, the Aureus Cubby is sculpted to resemble an object eroded by the wind and sea. The Aureus Cubby has a surface as smooth as driftwood and shape curvilinear as a shell. Cobalt oxide has been added to the concrete as it was poured to recall the colours of the local coastline. Inside the cubby children will discover shells made from patinaed brass embedded in the concrete. These shells are local species found on the nearby beaches. The colours of the concrete reflect the rich inky blue depths and tropical teal shallows of the water at Skennars Head. Jade Oakley is an Australian artist renowned for her large-scale public artworks inspired by nature, movement, and community. Her sculptures often draw from organic forms, creating spaces that invite interaction and reflection. With Aureus Cubby, she transforms art into a sensory experience — blending craftsmanship and imagination to create a space that feels both natural and magical.
Skennars Head NSW
5.8 km away
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Sports and Recreation Facilities
At Ballina Golf and Sports Club, the atmosphere is relaxed and the service exemplary; from the very beginning, a game, dinner, or event here will be unlike any other previous experience. They offer a fully licensed bar, a professional Golf Shop onsite, Asian Green Chinese restaurant, TAB facilities, a gaming room, and a kiosk, with wheelchair access. With numerous entertainment options, including weekly trivia and raffles, as well as monthly karaoke and live entertainment, you are sure to enjoy a night out here at Ballina Golf and Sports Club. The Club is a leading Northern Rivers Destination for all golfing enthusiasts who enjoy a golf course of champion standard. The Club attracts quality golfing, social and community events and is a place where members are proud to host guests and visitors to the Ballina Shire. The easy walking, tree-lined 18-hole course is nestled next to the stunning North Creek in East Ballina, with cooling ocean breezes that positively enhance your experience. The Ballina Golf and Sports Club offer a fully licensed bar, full TAB Facilities, gaming room, restaurant, kiosk and professional Golf Shop onsite with wheelchair access.
East Ballina NSW
5.9 km away
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Natural Attractions
Tucked along North Creek, The Serpentine is the kind of spot that families will fall in love with. For the little ones, the small, rolling waves are perfect for learning to surf, while on the right tide you'll find stunning lagoons forming – ideal for paddling, floating, and exploring. The water is usually crystal clear, shallow enough for peace of mind, and shaded by trees that give you a break from the sun. There's even a shower on hand to rinse off before heading home – because no one enjoys bringing half the beach back in their shoes. Easy to access and welcoming to all, The Serpentine also doubles as a spectacular sunset spot. As the day fades, watch the sun spill golden light through the Norfolk Pines across the creek – a serene way to end a coastal day.
East Ballina NSW
5.9 km away
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Natural Attractions
Nestled on the southern shores of the historic Richmond River, South Ballina Beach offers an idyllic escape for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This unspoilt haven is a hidden gem, perfect for catching waves when the northerly winds blow in or discovering secret fishing spots treasured by locals. Getting there is an adventure in itself! Take the scenic route by turning east at Wardell or enjoy a delightful journey across the river on the Burns Point Ferry. For those wishing to fully immerse themselves in the coastal beauty, the Ballina Beach Nature Resort provides a tranquil spot to camp under the stars, surrounded by nature. Whether you’re here to surf, fish, or simply unwind, South Ballina Beach promises a peaceful retreat brimming with natural charm.
South Ballina NSW
6.3 km away
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Parks and Gardens
Located in the southern area of Kingsford Smith Reserve, the Ballina Pump Track is an exciting new recreational attraction for riders of all ages and abilities. Designed for bikes, scooters and skateboards, the track allows riders to build and maintain speed using a smooth pumping motion - no pedalling or pushing required. This competition-quality facility features a main pump track built to national qualifier standards, making it suitable for high-level riding and events, alongside a junior pump track and an alternate advanced line for more experienced riders. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned rider, there's a track to suit every skill level. The surrounding precinct enhances the experience with trackside viewing areas, shelters, seating, bike stands, drinking fountains and a handy workstation, all set within landscaped grounds with shade trees. It's a great spot for riders and spectators alike to relax, watch the action and enjoy the outdoors. Free to access and open to the public, the Ballina Pump Track is a vibrant addition to the town's outdoor adventure offering - perfect for families, young riders and anyone keen to roll, ride and have fun by the river.
Ballina NSW
6.4 km away
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Sports and Recreation Facilities
If you’re looking for the ultimate skate spot in Ballina, look no further than the Ballina Skate Park! Situated right by the gorgeous Richmond River, it is perfect for skaters, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts of all skill levels. With smooth concrete surfaces, gnarly ramps, fun rails, and a bowl that flows like a dream, the park is a playground for tricks and adrenaline. Whether you're mastering your ollies, showing off some sweet grinds, or just cruising, the vibe here is as chill as the coastal breeze. For spectators, there is plenty of seating and shady spots to kick back while the kids (or adults) burn some energy. Plus, its location near Missingham Park makes it an easy stop for a full day of outdoor fun. Don’t forget your helmet, and bring along your crew—Ballina Skate Park is where good vibes and awesome rides meet!
Ballina NSW
6.4 km away
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Shopping and Markets
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
6.6 km away
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