Friends, ready for a coastal break where river life meets Pacific panoramas? Ballina, at the mouth of the Richmond River, blends breezy beaches, migrating whales, and bite-sized attractions you can link in a single, satisfying day.

Use this no-fuss guide for costs, timing, and simple routes that keep the focus on sunshine and sea spray.

Maritime Stories

Begin on the river at the Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum (Regatta Ave). See a real trans-Pacific raft from a 1973 expedition and Australia’s largest ship-model collection. Allow 60–90 minutes. Typical entry: $8–$12, kids discounted. Open daily mid-morning to mid-afternoon; check hours in school holidays. Nearby parking is free; cafés line River Street for snacks afterward.

Lighthouse Beach

This half-kilometre crescent sits between Ballina Head and the North Wall. Expect steady surf and long sand walks; swimmers should stay toward the middle and north end when patrolled (school holidays). Free showers and toilets at the car park. Pack a hat—shade is sparse—then stroll the seawall for views and shore fishing (common catch includes tailor and bream).

Whale Watching

From June–November, humpbacks cruise past—often closer to shore on their southbound return. Best land lookouts: Ballina Head, North Wall, and Sharpes Beach. Bring binoculars and arrive 08:30–10:00 or late afternoon when glare softens. Boat tours with marine guides typically run $85–$120 for 1.5–2 hours from Ballina or nearby towns; book a day ahead in peak season.

Big Prawn

Snap a playful photo with Ballina’s nine-metre Big Prawn (western entry, River St). It’s a quick stop with ample parking and makes a fun marker when plotting your loop between beaches and the river trail.

Waterfront Walk

Join the Historic Waterfront Trail from Fawcett Park to the North Wall. You’ll pass interpretive plaques on Ballina’s river heritage, regular benches, and broad river views. The return walk takes 60–90 minutes at an easy pace. Detour over Missingham Bridge to scout for local dolphins riding the current near the channel.

Wildlife Care

At Australian Seabird Rescue (North Creek Rd), learn how volunteers rehabilitate coastal wildlife—especially sea turtles. Guided tours last about 60 minutes and cost ~ $8; bookings recommended in school holidays. Expect practical tips on responsible beach time and what to do if you encounter a stranded animal.

Headland Lookout

Climb to Ballina Head Lookout near Richmond River Light for sweeping ocean and beach vistas. It’s a prime spot for spotting winter whales and year-round dolphins. Parking is limited; go early to secure a space, then wander down to Shelly Beach via the path.

Shelly Beach

Framed by two headlands, Shelly is family-friendly with a gentle gradient and a man-made tidal pool on the south end at low tide. Lifeguards patrol during school holidays; always swim between flags. A paved path skirts the sand for prams and scooters. Pack a picnic—nearby lawns offer shaded tables.

Art & Heritage

See regional creativity at the Northern Rivers Community Gallery (Cherry St) in a 1927 heritage building; exhibitions rotate monthly and are free. For a time capsule of early 20th-century home life, the Crawford House Museum (Alstonville, 10–15 minutes inland) presents period rooms and changing displays; entry $5–$10, allow 45–60 minutes.

Kayak the Creeks

Paddle North Creek or the Richmond River on guided kayak tours ($65–$95, 2–3 hours), suitable for beginners with stable doubles and lifejackets provided. Early morning departures bring calmer water and softer light; bring reef-safe sunscreen and a dry bag for phones.

Plantation Visit

Detour to the Thursday Plantation Visitor Centre (Gallans Rd) for a rainforest walk, a hedge maze, and a short film on essential-oil heritage. Entry is free; budget 45–60 minutes. The shop stocks balms and skincare; the café serves light lunches and good coffee.

Family Park Time

Missingham Park blends riverside paths, BBQs, a large covered playground, and a skate area beside the water. It’s ideal for a relaxed afternoon, especially after the waterfront walk. A small dog-friendly beach sits on the south side—check signage for off-leash hours.

Visitor Centre Picks

Stop at the Ballina Visitor Information Centre (River St) to grab maps and stock regional goodies—macadamias, local coffee, honey, teas, preserves, and chocolates. Prices range $6–$25; it’s also the easiest place to confirm current patrol times and walking track updates.

Smart Logistics

Fly into Ballina Byron Gateway Airport; the CBD is 10 minutes by taxi or shuttle. Buses link town beaches, but a car is most flexible for headlands and inland add-ons. Midrange stays average $140–$220 per night, with beachside apartments from $180. Free parking is common near beaches and parks; go early on sunny weekends.

Budget Planning

A well-paced day might include: museum ($10), café lunch ($18–$25), kayak tour ($85), and gelato on River Street ($6). Whales from the headland are free. Family of four? Swap kayaking for the waterfront walk, Shelly’s tidal pool, and Missingham Park and your activities can land under $60 total.

Conclusion

Ballina is coastal ease: a museum with a real ocean saga, cliff-top whale moments, family-friendly sands, and gentle river adventures. Which mood fits your trip—lookouts and long walks, a paddling morning, or gallery plus beach time? Share your travel month and pace, and a time-boxed itinerary with maps and parking notes can be sketched for you.