Car Rental Ballina Airport

Located in northeastern New South Wales, Ballina is a coastal gem known for its stunning scenery, whale watching, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re here to explore pristine beaches, hike scenic trails, or indulge in fresh local produce, this guide will help you uncover the best of Ballina and beyond. 

Nestled along the picturesque Far North Coast of NSW, Ballina is the perfect starting point for an adventure-filled getaway. Just a short drive from Byron Bay and within reach of the Gold Coast, this laid-back town is full of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and outdoor fun. With a Thrifty rental car, you’ll have the freedom to explore it all at your own pace. So, strap yourself in and let’s take a road trip through Ballina’s best attractions! 

Adventures on Land and Sea 

Whale Watching: A Spectacular Ocean Encounter 

Ballina is one of the best places in NSW for whale watching, with peak season occurring from June to November. During this time, humpback whales migrate along the coast, offering breathtaking displays of breaching and tail-slapping. For the ultimate experience, book a whale watching tour with Out of the Blue Adventures, which departs from Lennox Head and takes you into Cape Byron Marine Park for unmatched views of these gentle giants. 

Explore East Ballina’s Natural Beauty 

Just across Angels Beach Drive or Missingham Bridge, you’ll find East Ballina, home to stunning coastal views, Lighthouse Beach, and a variety of native wildlife. Keep an eye out for migratory birds, wallabies, echidnas, and lizards, many of which are unique to Australia. 

This area is also a surfer’s paradise, with consistent waves and fewer crowds compared to Byron Bay’s famous beaches. Whether you’re an experienced surfer or just starting out, Lighthouse Beach is the perfect spot to hit the waves. 

Walk Your Way Through Ballina 

Coastal Recreational Path: Scenic Strolling 

One of Ballina’s most popular walking trails, the Coastal Recreational Path stretches 5km from Lighthouse Beach to Sharpes Beach. This easy and picturesque walk offers stunning views of the river, ocean, and surrounding headlands—perfect for a relaxing morning stroll or sunset walk. 

Lennox Head to Lake Ainsworth Walk 

For a slightly longer walk, start at Lennox Head and make your way to Lake Ainsworth, a beautiful freshwater lake surrounded by tea trees. This is the perfect spot for a picnic, a swim, or a paddleboarding session. 

If walking isn’t your thing, you can drive directly to Lake Ainsworth in your Thrifty rental car and spend the afternoon relaxing in its serene waters. 

Creativity and Cuisine 

Discover Ballina’s Art Scene 

If you’re an art lover, Ballina has plenty to offer. Visit the Northern Rivers Community Gallery to see local and contemporary art exhibitions, or check out the Creative Artisans Gallery for unique handcrafted pieces from regional artists. For something truly immersive, stop by Sea Silks Gallery, where you can take a painting class and create your own masterpiece. 

Get Hands-On with Creativity 

If you prefer a more interactive experience, Red Door Studio offers pottery classes, while Tintenbar Up Front invites musicians, poets, comedians, and performers to take the stage in a relaxed community setting. This live arts night, held in a historic hall 11km outside Ballina, is a great way to experience local talent—just be sure to have your Thrifty rental car handy, as public transport is limited in the area. 

Experience Ballina’s Farmers Market 

Every Sunday, the Ballina Farmers Market comes to life with fresh local produce, gourmet foods and artisanal products. This is the perfect spot to pick up farm-fresh fruit and vegetables, enjoy a delicious breakfast, or simply soak in the vibrant community atmosphere. Top tip: Arrive early, as the market only runs from 7 AM to 11 AM and the best produce sells out fast! 

Beyond Ballina: Where to Next? 

Byron Bay: Australia’s Coastal Playground 

Just 30 minutes north, Byron Bay is a world-famous destination known for its laid-back lifestyle, stunning beaches, and vibrant arts scene. Take a drive up to the Cape Byron Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views, or spend the day surfing at Wategos Beach. 

Gold Coast: City Meets Surf 

If you’re in the mood for a city escape, take a 1.5-hour drive north to the Gold Coast. Known for its theme parks, high-rise skyline, and golden beaches, this buzzing city is a great spot for shopping, dining, and nightlife. 

Discover the Best Ballina with Thrifty 

Ballina is full of surprises, from whale watching and scenic walks to creative workshops and bustling markets. Whether you’re planning a laid-back weekend or using Ballina as a gateway to Byron Bay and beyond, a Thrifty rental car gives you the quality and affordability you need to hit the road in Ballina.