Ballina, NSW

Where the Richmond River meets the sea — long sandy beaches with consistent surf and the gateway to the Northern Rivers.

Live AI Coastal Briefing

Friday 28 August is shaping up to be a fantastic day here at our beautiful coastal destination, where the river meets the sea and the long sandy beaches offer a haven for those looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the consistent surf. The current temperature is a pleasant 13C, and with partly cloudy conditions and a humidity level of 98%, it's going to be a great day to get outdoors and make the most of what our stunning coastline has to offer. With a gentle breeze blowing in from the west at 9 km/h, it's the perfect morning to start your day with a sense of calm and tranquility.



The ocean conditions are looking exciting for surfers, with a wave height of 1.86m, which is sure to appeal to experienced surfers looking to catch some powerful waves. The water temperature is a comfortable 20.6C, making it ideal for a spring suit or rashie, and with high tide at 08:22 am and low tide at 02:07 pm, there's plenty of opportunity to get in the water and enjoy the surf. Whether you're a seasoned surfer or just looking to cool off, the ocean is calling, and with the shark smart drumlines active in the area, you can enjoy the water with added peace of mind.



For all you sports and fitness enthusiasts out there, today is a great day to get active and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery. Surfers will love the overhead waves, while runners and cyclists will appreciate the gentle breeze and partly cloudy conditions. Anglers will have a great time trying their luck in the river or out in the ocean, and paddleboarders will enjoy the calm waters and stunning views. With the air quality at a moderate AQI 43, it's a good idea to take any necessary precautions, but overall, it's a fantastic day to get out and enjoy your favourite outdoor activities.



As we head into the afternoon, the temperature is expected to remain steady at 13C, with plenty of sunshine and partly cloudy conditions. It's going to be a great day to soak up the sun, enjoy the surf, and take in the stunning coastal views. So why not grab your board, your bike, or your running shoes, and get out there and make the most of this beautiful day? With the low UV index and gentle breeze, it's the perfect opportunity to enjoy all that our stunning coastline has to offer, and we hope you have a fantastic day doing just that.

About This Coastline

Ballina is a river-and-ocean town at the mouth of the Richmond River, surrounded by surf beaches, breakwalls, wetlands and a productive coastal hinterland.

Its appeal comes from this close overlap of scenery, public space and the routines of people who use the coast throughout the year.

The Vibe

The town feels practical and spacious, with fishing, walking and surfing woven into everyday life.

It is less intensely touristed than Byron Bay, giving its beaches and headlands a more local, unhurried character. The tone changes with season and weather: early mornings tend to feel contemplative, while warm afternoons bring a more sociable rhythm.

The Local Anchor

The Richmond River entrance and its long breakwalls provide Ballina’s maritime anchor, drawing anglers, walkers and views towards migrating whales.

The Ballina Aboriginal Cultural Ways path highlights the continuing significance of the area to the Bundjalung people. These landmarks provide continuity, ensuring the destination retains a recognisable local story beyond its immediate recreational appeal.

The Landscape

Ocean beaches extend north and south of the river, while Shelly and Lighthouse beaches sit close to elevated headlands and rock platforms.

Estuary, dune, wetland and open-coast habitats meet within a relatively compact landscape. Conditions should always be read on the day, because wind, swell, tide and seasonal hazards can alter even a familiar shoreline.

Together, these elements give Ballina a coastal identity shaped as much by local life as by the water itself.