Explore the breathtaking coastal landscapes from Ballina to Lennox Head along the Coastal Recreation Path.

This shared pathway winding from Ballina's riverfront, through to East Ballina and Lennox Head covers over 12.5kms of coastal walking or cycling and offers a diverse journey.

The well maintained paths invite all ages to discover the stunning coastline, from captivating East Ballina to the dramatic cliff tops of Lennox Head. Make a day of it and walk or cycle the whole path- or choose your own adventure by walking a section (Don't forget to pack your swimmers!): Here's some ideas: 

 

 

Lennox Head to Pat Moreton 1.2km

Enjoy a coastal walk from Rutherford Street and follow the water and gradual ascent to Pat Morton lookout. Walk past the boat channel and maybe take a dip. Watch the surfers and hang gliders and take in the stunning view overlooking Lennox Village from the top. Pat Moreton Lookout is the perfect sunset picnic spot.

 

 

 

 

 

 Pat Moreton to Sharpes Beach 3km

An absolute must do walk! This section offers elevated clifftop views and plenty of picnic spots to absorb the scenery. Boulder Beach, approximately halfway, is an excellent vantage point for watching surfers and enjoying views of Byron Bay Lighthouse on clear days. Walking this section is extra breathtaking during whale season.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sharpes to Angels Via Flatrock

This section of the Coastal Recreation Path includes a tree covered boardwalk that meanders alongside the beach through coastal bush. Catch glimpses of Sharpes and Angels Beach as you travel and stop in at flatrock lookout or wander down to the rock pools for an explore on your way. This is a great section for spotting native wildlife.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aboriginal Cultural Ways

Cultural Ways is an invitation from Ballina’s Aboriginal community to gain a deeper understanding of this place and its community. Cultural Ways passes near sites and story places that have great significance to our local Aboriginal community and help to build a greater understanding of this rich landscape and its people.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ballina Riverfront Walk

The Ballina Riverfront Walk follows the Richmond River out to the tip of the breakwall. The trail consists of nineteen signage panels that provide brief insights into the historic importance of the river to the shire’s earliest European settlers and residents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shaws Bay Loop

A local favourite, Shaws Bay Loop, treats you to expansive views of Ballina's key waterways—the Richmond River, Shaws Bay, and the picturesque coastline. Follow the footpath along North Wall and maybe spot some dolphins as you take in the panoramic water views in every direction. Wander along the boardwalk through serene mangroves and saltmarsh. If you walking at high tide, be sure to pack your swimmers and goggles as the Eastern end of Shaws Bay is a great snorkelling and picnicing spot. There are also picnic shelters, showers and an amazing kids park on this loop.

 

 

 

 

There are bins provided along the whole stretch of the Coastal Recreation Path way so please use them to help keep our coastline beautiful.