The Ballina coast and hinterland is the ultimate playground for beach lovers, surfers, boaties, anglers, yogis and eco-adventurers. With lush, subtropical rainforests, 32km of pristine, sandy beaches, crystal clear waterways, endless streams, lakes and estuaries, and the vast expanse of the Richmond River, it’s a truly spectacular place.
Aside from the wealth of things to see and do, the region is also famous for its laid-back lifestyle and community atmosphere, with warm, welcoming locals that keep visitors coming back.
The best way to explore everything on offer is to begin your trip by picking up a rental car from Ballina Airport. From here, there are endless amounts of things to see and do. Below are some suggestions to get you started.
Fall in love with the surf at Lennox Head
Lennox Point is a famous surf spot with a world-class break and is located within a National Surf Reserve. Drive your rental car the short distance up the coast and spend an afternoon learning to surf with one of the local surf schools. If you’re feeling less energetic, simply kick back and relax on the headland, taking in the views of the local surfers, dolphins and whales. Lennox Head is also a popular place for hang gliders and paragliders, who can be seen hovering over the headland, which makes for some peaceful and entertaining viewing.
Discover beautiful Byron Bay
Jump in your rental car and take the short 20-minute drive to Byron Bay, Australia’s ultimate city escape, ideal for those looking to relax and unwind.
There's no place quite like Byron Bay. With spectacular beaches, endless stretches of hinterland rainforest to be explored, and a thriving cafe culture, this easy-going beach town lives life at much slower pace than most other places on Earth.
Make the most of that glorious Byron coastline at Main Beach, Clarkes Beach, or Wategos Beach. Make sure you catch the sunrise at least once while you're there – it's well worth the wake-up call – or the all-nighter.
Byron Bay is a little bit bohemian and moves to a different beat, with a carefree, laid-back atmosphere that exudes charm. Live like a local and explore the markets where you’ll find locally made items, as well as homegrown fruit and veggies, all while enjoying some live music.
No visit to Byron Bay is complete without a trip to the Stone and Wood brewery – whether you’re a craft beer drinker or not. Stone and Wood are an exemplary brewing company, producing some of the finest handcrafted beer that Australia has too offer. And with a business model that focuses on quality, sustainability, and giving back to the community, it’s a place well worth exploring.
Ballina, Byron Bay and the entire New South Wales Northern Rivers region is endlessly beautiful, with so much to see and do. For the best way to see it all, jump in a rental car and hit the road.
Wherever you want to go, you’ll get there in a rental car from Hertz.
