When to Fly
Ballina has a number of peak times throughout the year when it becomes very busy. January and February are the busiest months, whilst Easter is also very popular with families. The months of November and December also see an influx of people, due to the Rivafest, Christmas celebrations, the Boxing Day Races and Schoolies. Book flights to Ballina well in advance if you wish to travel during this season.
If you would like to plan your trip around the whale season, with the hope of spotting a whale leaping from the sea, then the best time to visit is from June to November. This is when the humpbacks begin their annual migration from Antarctica to the Great Barrier Reef. Many whale watchers book a flight to Ballina during this period.
Ballina also becomes busy when neighbouring Byron Bay holds one of its many festivals. Accommodation may be crammed and flight prices increased from the overspill of visitors to Byron. Its major festivals include East Coast Blues & Roots Festival during April, the Byron Bay Writers Festival during August and the Byron Lighthouse Run in September/October.
If you’re looking for lower rates for accommodation and cheap flights, try booking your trip some time between after the Easter holidays and before the September/October school holidays.