Ballina is situated on the far north coast of NSW and is a fantastic spot for a holiday. Its relaxed coastal vibe entices people from all walks of life with its spectacular scenery, award-winning restaurants and stunning art galleries. There are great places to visit in the surrounding area including Byron Bay. Byron Bay has a certain type of magic and energy that attracts thousands of tourists each year. There is plenty to do here including laying by the beach, surfing, shopping, viewing art and plenty more. Visit this bohemian wonderland on your next trip to Ballina with our day trip itinerary below.
Breaky in Byron Bay
As they say the early bird gets the early worm, so get up with the sun to make the most of your day. It’s only a half an hour drive so hold out for breakfast until you get there. Byron Bay has some fantastic cafes offering delicious breakfast to kick start your day. Head to the centre of Byron Bay and choose from one of the many amazing cafes on offer.
A walk to the lighthouse
The iconic Cape Byon Lighthouse sits on the most easterly point of Australia looking over the beautiful beaches of Byron Bay. Park the car at Cape Byron Conservation Area or Palm Valley car park to start your walk along the 3.7km loop winding up through lush rainforest and grassy clifftops. There are stairs and steep inclines so make sure you’re wearing appropriate walking shoes. Once you reach the top, enjoy panoramic views over Byron from 94 metres above sea level. You may be lucky enough to see a whale or two between June and November as they make their way through on their annual migration. To learn more about the history of the lighthouse, visit the Cape Byron Lighthouse Maritime Museum in what once was the lightkeeper’s office.
Beach hangs on Wategos Beach
On your way down from the lighthouse, stop at Wategos Beach to cool off. This beautiful beach is on the northern side of Cape Byron, protected by the headland. These calmer waters are a popular place for bottlenose dolphins to play beneath the waves. Take a dip and soak up the sun before heading out for lunch.
Lunch at The Farm
After working up an appetite on your walk and swim the perfect place to have lunch is The Farm, a working farm set on 80 acres with a community of growers, educators, producers, and eateries. The Farm’s motto is grow, feed, and educate. They hope by experiencing how food is grown and produced, inspires people to choose a healthier more sustainable lifestyle. Have lunch at the Three Blue Ducks restaurant where you will find ethical, authentic, quality food and hospitality. After lunch, wander around the farm, meet the local animals, visit the bakery, grab a gelato, admire the flowers at the florist and enjoy the farm life.
Byron Solar Train
After lunch head to the Byron World First Solar Train. Ride onboard a restored 1949 two-carriage heritage train along a three-kilometre track from Byron Town Centre to North Beach precinct. Sit back and relax whilst soaking in the views of rainforest, endangered coastal wetlands, and the tea tree Belongil Creek. Once you arrive at North Beach station explore the Byron Arts and Industry Estate. Here you will find a range of local creative businesses from the iconic McTavish Surfboards, Yoli and Otis and Stone and Wood brewery. Once you are all shopped out head back to the train station and make your way back to town.
Sunset and Dinner
As the sun sets on your day in Byron, head to Main Beach and soak up the chilled-out atmosphere. Every evening, people gather here with a picnic rug to watch the sunset over the mountains. There are plenty of fantastic dining options in Byron Bay for dinner. Choose from a range of cuisines from Asian fusion, Italian, Indian, Mexican, and more. If you’re travelling with kids, you can’t go past The Park Hotel in Suffolk Park. It has a secured playground onsite and is conveniently located on your way back to Ballina.
Back to Ballina
After an epic day exploring the enchanting Byron Bay, ditch the crowds and lay your head at Tasman Holiday Park – Ballina. There is everything you need right here for the perfect holiday. Relax by the pool and enjoy the heated spa. Kids will love the kids wading pool, PlayStation centre, giant chess set, jumping pillow, games room and more. Choose from a range of cabins or set up camp on one of our powered campsites, caravan sites or ensuite sites.
