Fast facts
- Glorious white beaches and a subtropical hinterland
- Famous for its ancient rainforests and renowned surfing spots
- Nine hours’ drive north of Sydney. Fly from Melbourne with Jetstar, from Sydney with Jetstar,Virgin Blue or Rex. Five minutes' drive from Ballina Byron Gateway Airport and 20 minutes to Byron Bay.
Why go there
From the lush hinterland to the sparkling beaches on the coast, the region is full of natural wonders. Byron Bay is a melting pot of surf culture, alternative philosophies and hedonistic indulgence.
The laid-back towns of Ballina, Lennox Head and Brunswick Heads, plus the arts-loving villages of Bangalow and Mullumbimby, combine the casual vibe of coastal retreats with a touch of city style.
Things to do
- Watch dolphins swim with surfers from Pat Moreton Lookout near Lennox Head.
- Discover the magnificent Minyon Falls in Nightcap National Park as you follow the Rainforest Way from Ballina.
- Hire a bike to explore the cycleways in Ballina or go horse riding on South Ballina Beach.
- Discover Cape Byron Headland Reserve, the easternmost point in Australia.
- Stop at a roadside stall for great coffee, avocadoes and macadamias.
- Try adventure activities at Byron – kayaking, snorkelling, diving and hot-air ballooning.
Don’t miss
- A cruise of the Richmond River from Ballina.
- The Macadamia Castle at Knockrow near Bryon Bay.
- A kayak tour of the estuarine wetlands from Ballina.
- Bangalow Market Day on the fourth Sunday of every month.
- Crystal Castle, Mullumbimby for its amazing crystals, tarot and astrology.
- Thursday Plantation, near Ballina, Australia’s first tea-tree plantation.
Events
- All Girls Surf Showdown, Lennox Head, in June.
- The East Coast Blues & Roots Music Festival, Byron Bay, during Easter.
- Byron Bay Writers Festival, Byron Bay, in August.
- Fatherhood Festival, Byron Bay, in September.
- East Coast Sculpture Show, Thursday Plantation, near Ballina, from September to January.
- Ballina Rivafest, Fawcett Park, Ballina, in November.
- Boxing Day Races, Ballina Racecourse, on 26 December.
