If you love golf, Ballina and the Northern Rivers region offer some of the most beautiful and diverse courses in Australia. From coastal fairways overlooking the Pacific Ocean to quiet country greens tucked in the hinterland, every course brings its own charm. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or just enjoy a relaxed social round, you will find plenty of great options within easy reach of Ramada Hotel & Suites Ballina, making it the perfect base for a Northern Rivers Golf Holiday.
Ballina Golf & Sports Club
Located just a few minutes’ drive from the hotel, Ballina Golf & Sports Club is the ideal local choice for guests staying at Ramada. The 18-hole championship course features tree-lined fairways, scenic water features and manicured greens that are a pleasure to play on year-round.
The course layout is enjoyable for beginners while still offering strategic challenges for experienced players. Facilities include a driving range, practice putting greens, a fully stocked pro shop and professional coaching services. The clubhouse overlooks the 18th green and offers casual dining, cold drinks and a relaxed place to unwind after your round.
Teven Valley Golf Course
Only a 15-minute drive inland from Ballina, Teven Valley Golf Course is a hidden gem set amongst rolling farmland and rainforest. This peaceful 9-hole course runs alongside Maguires Creek and is surrounded by lush green hills and was named “The best 9 hole course in Australia” by Golf Australia Magazine.
Teven Valley is known for its welcoming atmosphere and beautiful natural setting. The fairways are framed by tall trees and the sound of native birds fills the air, creating a truly tranquil experience. The course is walkable and easygoing, yet the small greens and tricky slopes make for an engaging challenge. The clubhouse has a large veranda where you can sit back with a coffee or cold drink and enjoy the view.
Byron Bay Golf Club
A scenic 30-minute drive north from Ballina, Byron Bay Golf Club is one of the most picturesque golf destinations on the North Coast. The 18-hole championship course is set across gently rolling terrain with glimpses of the Pacific Ocean and Cape Byron Lighthouse from several holes.
The fairways are wide and forgiving, but ocean breezes and strategically placed bunkers keep things interesting. After your game, enjoy a meal or drink at the club’s restaurant and bar, which offers a spacious deck overlooking the course and out towards the Byron coastline. Byron Bay Golf Club is also home to a strong social scene, with regular competitions and events for visitors and locals alike.
Virtual Golf Ballina
When the weather turns or you feel like something different, Virtual Golf Ballina provides a fun indoor alternative. Located right in Ballina, it offers state-of-the-art golf simulators where you can play world-famous courses such as St Andrews, Pebble Beach and Augusta National.
The technology uses high-speed sensors and realistic graphics to recreate every detail of your swing, making it a great training tool for improving your game. It is also ideal for families or groups of friends looking for a relaxed social activity. With food and drink available on-site, Virtual Golf Ballina is a great way to enjoy a round without leaving town.
Ocean Shores Country Club
Around 45 minutes north of Ballina, Ocean Shores Country Club is a must-play for any serious golfer visiting the Northern Rivers. Designed by renowned architects Bruce Devlin and Robert von Hagge, the course is consistently ranked among the top regional layouts in New South Wales.
The 18-hole championship course offers a mix of lush fairways, fast greens and dramatic elevation changes. From many holes, you can see the ocean to the east and the hinterland ranges to the west. The design takes advantage of the natural topography, rewarding accuracy and smart shot selection. The clubhouse offers excellent dining and panoramic views over the fairways and surrounding landscape.
Murwillumbah Golf Club
Set in the shadow of Mount Warning, Murwillumbah Golf Club is widely regarded as one of the prettiest country courses in New South Wales. It is about an hour’s drive from Ballina and well worth the trip.
The 18-hole course follows the contours of the Tweed Valley with lush fairways, tree-lined approaches and mountain views from nearly every hole. The layout provides plenty of variety, from shorter precision holes to long par fives that demand power and accuracy. The clubhouse is warm and welcoming, serving great meals and drinks overlooking the 10th green.
Yamba Golf & Country Club
About 90 minutes south of Ballina, Yamba Golf & Country Club offers an outstanding course surrounded by coastal bushland and ocean breezes. The 18-hole layout features wide fairways, well-placed bunkers and beautifully maintained greens that make for a rewarding round.
The club’s facilities include a driving range, pro shop, cart hire and modern restaurant with a relaxed coastal vibe. Many visitors pair a round at Yamba with a day exploring the nearby beaches, making it a perfect day trip from Ballina.
Other Courses in the Region
If you are extending your stay or exploring further, there are several other courses within easy driving distance of Ballina:
- Lismore Workers Golf Club – a friendly 18-hole course close to the city centre.
- Mullumbimby Golf Club – a peaceful 9-hole course with a relaxed country feel.
- Grafton District Golf Club – a well-maintained regional course known for its wide fairways and challenging greens.
- Iluka Golf Club – a small but scenic 9-hole course near the coast.
- Woodburn-Evans Head Golf Club – a coastal course that combines relaxed country golf with seaside charm.
Each offers something different, from quiet country settings to lively social clubs, ensuring there is always somewhere new to play.
Stay and Play at Ramada Ballina
After a full day on the greens, return to comfort at Ramada Hotel & Suites Ballina. Overlooking the Richmond River and just a few minutes from Ballina Golf & Sports Club, it is the perfect base for a Northern Rivers golf getaway.
Enjoy spacious suites, onsite dining, a riverside pool and secure parking. Whether you are planning a weekend escape or a week of golf and relaxation, Ramada Ballina offers everything you need for a memorable stay.
📞 Contact us to Book your stay today and tee off in one of Australia’s most beautiful golfing regions.
