We spent our honeymoon in The Grandview Apartments penthouse with incredible views across the river and the ocean. Whale watching every day and amazing birdlife everywhere. The best breakfast in Oz at Shelly's on the Beach where you sit in comfort and eat right on the water.
Another highlight is The Sand Bar Restaurant overlooking Shaws Bay. Great food and great atmosphere. The Sunday sessions at the Shaws Bay Hotel are a must. What a blast! To top it all off, the beaches are as good as anywhere in Oz and the fishing around Ballina brilliant. The hinterland drives are brilliant and Byron is just up the highway.
Ballina has everything if you want either a busy or quiet holiday. We will be back... often!!! We loved the place and the locals are extremely friendly.