Hello beautiful community near and far
We hope you’re having a lovely festive season so far, we all certainly deserve some much needed joy and relaxation after a few tough years. The general feeling we’ve felt and noticed is that everyone is feeling very burnout, tired and ready to take it easy. We feel this unspoken pressure to make Christmas bigger and more beautiful than ever to balance out the adversities and feel like “everything is back to normal”. But this is your gentle message, that it doesn’t have to be that way. It’s okay for Christmas to look different this year and that doesn’t mean we’ve failed. It means we made it, and that’s enough.
Spending time “Home and Alone” these past few years meant we value simplicity in our homes and togetherness in our community more than ever. Perhaps we’re choosing less clutter under the tree and more experiences together. One thing is for certain is that we’re all craving a holiday! There are so many incredible local Ballina Businesses (and beyond) you can support to keep our community thriving for years to come. We’ve created a handy list for you to browse below. Why not tick some things off those christmas lists or even build an experience for yourself or a friend as a gift.
Local Artisan Crafts and Merchandise
Ballina Visitor Information Centre
The Ballina Visitor Information Centre (1 minute from our front door) has an abundance of gorgeous local merchandise and artwork. They are the hub to support a variety of local businesses, you can purchase chocolates, macadamias, caps, towels, memorabilia + more.
Be sure to ask the lovely team about the regular local markets which have an abundance of treasures and treats for Christmas goodies.
Experiences & Adventure
Byron Bay Coastal Walks
Explore the pristine coastline, forage for native foods and relax knowing it’s all organised for you with Byron Bay Coastal Walks & Transfers. Their signature experience is their “Nyangbal Half Day Coastal Walk”. Join Kris Cook, a local Nyangbal man of the Bundjalung nation as he shares with you the stories, customs and history of his people in the local area.
Enjoy foraging for native foods as his ancestors did and as he still does today.
https://www.byronbaycoastalwalks.com.au/
Out of The Blue Adventures
Jump aboard Out of The Blue Adventures just a short stroll down the Boardwalk from the hotel! You can purchase vouchers to all their tours including Dolphin Sunset Tours and the Julian Rocks Experience on their website below. It’s an unforgettable experience.
Use code “CHRISTMAS” for 20% adventure gift cards, valid for 3 years.
Luxury Self Care
The Blow Bar Ballina
The amazing ladies at The Blow Bar Ballina (located just outside our front doors). Will have you feeling your most exquisite self after a treatment with them. “We specialise in the art of getting ready. How? With treatments designed to make you feel fab inside and out. And with jazz and champagne, of course”. They have vouchers available for purchase too.
Dining Experiences
You can also purchase vouchers or book a dining experience with one of the amazing nearby restaurants:
La Cucina Di Vino
“Overlooking the boat harbour and next to the picturesque Richmond River, you are in for a pleasant dinner with a great atmosphere and faultless service at La Cucina Di Vino a favourite with the Ballina locals for its true Southern Italian style cuisine.”
Mumbai Masala Indian Restaurant
Mumbai Masala is the inception of owners Rahul and Radhika and showcases their extensive wealth, knowledge and love of Indian food. All spices are roasted and blended in house, the delicious selection of breads house baked in the tandoor and desserts made on the premises.
Eco Friendly Stocking Ideas
Mumma Cow Eco
Mumma Cow Eco creates beautiful eco-friendly products only using recycled packaging. Owned by amazing Mum and business owner, Ashleigh in the Northern Rivers. She is passionate about living zero waste and living a beautiful life. Shop her products here:
https://mummacoweco.com.au/
Divine Smudging and Crystals
“Connecting crystals to you with love” – Michelle Leiper, Owner. Based in beautiful Ballina.
https://www.divinesmudgingcrystals.com/
Gift Vouchers for a stay with us
Of course, we too would love to make special memories with you so we offer gift vouchers available for purchase on our website. Or you can simply book a holiday escape for yourself, family or friends by calling us.
We wish you a magical Christmas and Happy New Year and we can’t wait to see you soon. Drive safe, slow down and spread kindness.