Where to Eat in Ballina: A Guide to the Best Cafes, Restaurants and Sundowner Spots
Ballina has quietly built one of the best food scenes on the Northern Rivers. Here is where to eat your way around town, from morning coffee at Bertie’s and Belle General to sundowners on the river and dinner at Saltbush, Kelp, Capiche, Hey Lady and Mumbai Masala.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking in Ballina: Where to Get on the Water
Ballina’s sheltered bays, tidal creeks and calm river stretches make it one of the best flat-water paddling spots in the Northern Rivers. Here is where to go, who to hire from and what to know before you get on the water.
Cycling the Northern Rivers: Road Loops, Rail Trails and Mountain Bike Parks
From flat riverside road loops and the famous Northern Rivers Rail Trail to purpose-built mountain bike parks and shuttle-access gravity destinations on the Gold Coast, here is your guide to cycling from Ballina.
Evans Head and the Broadwater: A Quieter Side of the Northern Rivers
Head south from Ballina to discover Evans Head, a quiet coastal town flanked by two national parks with uncrowded beaches, calm river paddling and some of the best birdwatching in the region.
A Day in Bangalow: Shopping, Food and Markets
Bangalow is the kind of place you visit for a quick coffee and end up staying all day. Just 30 minutes from Ballina, this charming Federation village delivers boutique shopping, exceptional food and one of the best monthly markets in the Northern Rivers.
Whale Season 2026
Every year from June to November, thousands of humpback whales migrate along the Ballina and Byron Bay coastline. In 2026, two local operators run daily tours from the Richmond River
Why Everyone Is Talking About the Northern Rivers Rail Trail
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail has quickly become one of the most popular outdoor experiences in regional NSW. Here is everything you need to know to plan your ride.
A Family Day Out at Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
Just twenty minutes from Ramada Ballina, Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is a family favourite hidden in the leafy hinterland. Meet kangaroos, koalas, reptiles, and resident wombat Manda, catch the daily keeper talks, and let the kids loose on the playground and mini golf. Book a winter stay with us and the kids go free.
A Guide to the Best Art Galleries in the Northern Rivers
From heritage community galleries and world-class collections to immersive digital experiences, the Northern Rivers is home to one of the most varied art scenes in regional Australia. Here are seven galleries to explore from Ballina.
Ballina’s Water Stories: A New Soundtrail Walk Along the Richmond River
Discover Ballina’s Water Stories, a free cultural and historical walk along the Richmond River featuring 23 interpretive signs and a geo-located Soundtrail audio experience guided by Nyangbal knowledge holders.
