Ballina sits at the mouth of the Richmond River, surrounded by sheltered bays, tidal creeks and calm waterways that make it one of the best spots in the Northern Rivers for flat-water paddling. Whether you are a first-timer looking for somewhere safe to try stand-up paddleboarding or an experienced kayaker wanting to explore mangroves and spot dolphins, there is a paddle for you here.
The best part is that you do not need to bring your own gear. Several local operators offer SUP, kayak and surfboard hire with delivery, and guided tours are available for those who want a local to show them the best spots.
Shaws Bay
If there is one place every visitor should paddle in Ballina, it is Shaws Bay. This large, sheltered tidal lagoon in East Ballina is enclosed by the Richmond River breakwall, creating calm, shallow water that is ideal for beginners, families and anyone who wants a relaxed session on the water.
The bay rarely has any chop and the sandy bottom is visible in most areas, making it a reassuring spot for kids and first-time paddlers. You can launch from several sandy entry points around the bay, with Pop Denison Park on the southern shore offering picnic areas, barbecues and a playground for before or after your paddle.
Shaws Bay is also a great spot for a sunrise SUP session. The water is glassy in the early morning, the light is beautiful, and you will often have the bay almost to yourself.
North Creek
For a more adventurous paddle, North Creek is a tidal creek that winds through mangroves and wetlands on the northern side of Ballina. It is a quieter, wilder experience compared to Shaws Bay, with excellent birdlife, stingrays gliding through the shallows and regular sightings of bottlenose dolphins.
The creek is best paddled on an incoming or high tide, when the water level gives you easy access through the mangrove channels. At low tide, some sections become shallow and muddy. Launch from the North Creek boat ramp or the access points along North Creek Road.
This is one of those paddles where you can feel genuinely removed from town despite being only minutes from the centre of Ballina. Bring a waterproof phone case for photos, because the mangrove reflections and wildlife encounters are worth capturing.
The Richmond River
The Richmond River itself offers wide, open paddling with a different feel again. From the foreshore at Fawcett Park or the river bank near the hotel, you can paddle upstream towards the canals and mangroves or downstream towards the breakwall and the river mouth.
The river is home to resident pods of bottlenose dolphins, pelicans, sea eagles and a range of wading birds. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for wildlife, and sunset paddles on the river are hard to beat.
Be aware that the Richmond River is a working waterway with boat traffic, particularly around the marina and the river mouth. Stay to the edges, keep clear of the main channel and always wear a leash on your SUP. Tidal currents can be strong near the breakwall and river mouth, so stick to the calmer upstream sections if you are not an experienced paddler.
Hire and Lessons
You do not need your own gear to get on the water in Ballina. Several local operators make it easy.
Beachworkz Surf Shop on River Street offers kayak, SUP and surfboard hire from half-day sessions through to week-long hires. Run by long-time Ballina local Jeff Templeton, the team will deliver and collect gear for you, which is great if you do not have roof racks. They are about a five-minute drive from Shaws Bay. Phone: 02 6686 5200.
Ballina SUP and Surf Hire offers SUPs, surfboards and kayaks for half-day, full-day, weekend and weekly hire. They deliver equipment to your door across Ballina and Lennox Head, making it easy to get set up wherever you want to paddle. At least one hour’s notice is required for bookings.
Lets Go Surfing runs SUP lessons and tours on sheltered waters at Shaws Bay and Lake Ainsworth in Lennox Head. They also offer 24-hour and weekly SUP hire with delivery across Ballina and Lennox Head. If you want a guided introduction to paddleboarding with qualified instructors, this is a great option. Phone: 02 6680 9443.
Guided Kayak Tours
Kayak Ballina, run by local guide Scott, offers guided kayak tours on the Richmond River and its creeks. Scott has years of experience on these waterways and the tours include tuition, wildlife spotting (dolphins are a regular highlight) and a chance to explore parts of Ballina most visitors never see. Tours run for around three hours and cater to all experience levels, from complete beginners to experienced paddlers. The tours have featured on Sydney Weekender and consistently attract excellent reviews.
Tips for Paddling in Ballina
Tides matter. Check the tide times before heading out, especially for North Creek and the Richmond River. An incoming or high tide gives you the best conditions and the most access through the mangrove channels.
Sun protection is essential. You are on the water with no shade, so wear sunscreen, a hat and a rashie, even on overcast days. The glare off the water amplifies the UV.
Wear a leash. SUP leashes are a legal requirement in NSW when paddling on open waterways. They are also a good safety measure on sheltered water.
Go early. The calmest and most rewarding conditions are typically first thing in the morning, before the wind picks up and the boat traffic increases.
Respect the wildlife. If you encounter dolphins, keep your distance and let them come to you. Do not chase or approach them.
Paddle from Your Doorstep
Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina sits right on the banks of the Richmond River, with Shaws Bay and North Creek both just a short drive or ride away. It is the kind of location where you can watch the sunrise over the river from your room and be on the water before breakfast.
Book your stay directly and make the most of Ballina’s waterways.
