Things to See and Do

Crystal Castle
Visit the magic and mystical gardens of the Crystal Castle. Enjoy the ancient labyrinth and feast your eyes on the exquisite jewellery and crystals. Located 35 minutes north of Ballina, this is a fantastic place to indulge in a fabulous lunch and take in some of the beautiful hinterland views.

Thursday Plantation
Learn about the magic of Tea Tree Oil. Thursday Plantation offers an education centre, café, gift shop and factory specials. Take the time to explore the Sculpture Garden and Tea Tree maze.

The Macadamia Castle
Open 8am to 5pm daily, The Macadamia Castle is perfect entertainment for the kids. Explore the animal park, take a train ride, play mini golf and experience the tree house playground. You can also check out the gift shop and purchase some local macadamias or relax in the café and enjoy a meal or just a fabulous coffee!

Summerland House Farm
Tractor farm tours, Museum, Nursery, Water park & Playground

Stone and Wood Brewery
Brewery tours and tasters with world famous Stone & Wood craft beer

Ballina Fine Food and Wine Festival
from 30 June, 2017 to 02 July, 2017
This year the festival will have 3 events run over 3 days showcasing a fusion of the best produce, products, restaurants and culinary expertise our region has to offer, along with premium wines, craft beer, cider and spirits. A highlight of the festival will be performances by well known artists Bourbon Street and Glenn Massey, as well as local entertainers.

Ballina Prawn Festival
from 11 November, 2017 to 11 November, 2017
Celebrate the Prawn! Enjoy the delights of local produce and goods. This quirky celebration of rich local heritage has a raft of unique, often hilarious and very entertaining activities where audience participation is warmly encouraged.

Sample Food Festival
from 02 September, 2017 to 02 September, 2017
Sample Food Festival is a Northern New South Wales festival that celebrates the creativity and well being of the local food. Bright tropical flavours, and bold creative flair attract over 15,000 visitors annually. Sample Food Festival is held in the village of Bangalow and is supported by 200 stall holders, who include local restaurant owners, farmers and local food producers.

Byron Bay Writers Festival
from 04 August, 2017 to 06 August, 2017
At the Byron Bay Writers Festival, you will find seven beautiful white marquees with conversations, panels, readings, lectures and book launches running concurrently. Most sessions are an hour in length, and you can sit and listen for an entire session or wander between marquees as the fancy takes you. The day starts at 9am and the last session will conclude at 5pm. There are coffee and food vendors, or you are more then welcome to bring a picnic. Our official bookseller has a splendid bookshop in operation, so you may indulge yourself with the books by the authors to whom you have listened. Most authors will be in the book signing area after their sessions. On Sunday, one marquee is turned over to children’s authors and the kids can have a special day meeting their favourites. In the evening, you can enjoy one of the feature events around town.

Ballina Country Music Fest
from 03 November, 2017 to 05 November, 2017
Over 3 days, experience many country music acts in all different venues, from buskers to award winning acts.