This list of 5 Ballina attractions will suit anyone looking to spend a week away in this beautiful beach side town. Whether you’re looking for a family getaway, a weekend with friends, or a romantic holiday with your partner, Ballina is always a good choice.

#5 Thing to do in Ballina: Water Sports

With picturesque beaches making up the best reasons to visit Ballina, water sports needed to be mentioned on this list. Whether you’re new to surfing or a veteran of the sport, there’s a place for you at one of Ballina’s best surf spots. Kids and rookie surfers will love Summerland Surf School, with easy going coaches and strong focus on fun, while advanced surfers can enjoy their own surf adventure at Lennox Head. Ballina also offers kayaking services and some excellent fishing spots where you can catch a wide array of fish, including bream, jewfish, black marlin, flathead and whiting.

Get in on the surfing action with accommodation close to the beach at Discovery Parks - Ballina. 

#4 Thing to do in Ballina: Australian Seabird Rescue

Ballina is known for its beautiful wildlife. Thanks to theAustralian Seabird Rescue, a community-group dedicated to wildlife rescue and conservation, you can see rescued animals native to the area in one location. Teach your kids the importance of caring for the environment by booking a school holiday tour and begin their journey of learning to protect animals that make Australia so unique. The rescue center is a great afternoon experience for any age.

#3 Thing to do in Ballina: Ballina Naval & Maritime Museum

Ballina is proud of its maritime heritage, which is showcased at the Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum. Founded in 1983, the museum hosts the largest collection of naval and merchant ships in Australia. Brush up on your local history, enjoy a moving tribute to women in the navy and see a working steam engine.

#2 Thing to do in Ballina: Classic Aero Adventure Flights

See the Ballina Byron Bay area like you’ve never seen it before with Classic Aero Adventure Flights. They offer a variety of flight packages for all kinds of adventure levels. Away for the weekend with that special someone? Enjoy a chauffeur-driven ride around the hangar in a vintage 1960 FB Holden, take the coastal reconnaissance flight and be driven back to your hotel. Are you a bit of a thrill-seeker and looking to get your heart racing with your mates? The Aerobatic Adventure will let you explore the capabilities of these old warbirds and see the world from an entirely new perspective. Whatever your reason for visiting Ballina, you will have an unforgettable time in these ex-RAAF planes.

#1 Thing to do in Ballina: Sea Silks Gallery

Kim Toft is a celebrated artist and Ballina local. Sea Silks Gallery showcases and sells her award-winning art and environmental children’s books. Her goal is to highlight the importance of the conservation of marine life through her original silk paintings. This gallery is an absolute must-visit for fans of Australian art.

Did we get it right? Let us know your top things to do in Ballina that we missed in the comments section!