Ballina

The town of Ballina, centred on an island at the mouth of the Richmond River, is surrounded by 32 kilometres of white, sandy beaches and seemingly endless, crystal waterways - it's a natural fun park for beach lovers, surfers, boaties, anglers and eco-adventurers.

A blend of tranquil seaside hideaway and vibrant holiday resort, Ballina is the commercial and entertainment hub of the shire. The historic thoroughfares of the town centre are lined with stylish cafes and restaurants where you can sample the famous local seafood and, of course, there are plenty of classic country pubs. You can visit museums that showcase Ballina's colourful history, or discover theatres, galleries and expos that are bursting with the creative output of the region's many visual and performing artists. There is an enormous choice holiday fun for the kids and, for the die-hard shopaholic, a mind-boggling array of funky boutiques and designer stores.

Alstonville

Away from the coast, the Shire's lush hinterland is punctuated by pioneer settlements like Teven, Tintenbar and Knockrow, where you can enjoy a round of golf, savour the burgeoning regional cuisine or sample the delights of the surrounding coffee, macadamia, peanut, avocado, stone fruit and banana plantations. The village of Alstonville is an Aladdin's cave for curio hunters and culture buffs with its historic buildings, classic Australian architecture, art gallery and intimate cafe's and tea-houses. Among the surrounding hills are secluded waterfalls, lush, sub-tropical parks and gardens and, at Victoria Park Nature Reserve, one of the last remnants of the "Big Scrub" - a vast rainforest which once blanketed the region.

Lennox Head

The village of Lennox Head is a Mecca among surfers, with world-renowned breaks at Boulders and Lennox Point. The views from the headland are breathtaking and Pat Morton Lookout is the place for a bit of whale and dolphin spotting or, for the more adventurous, taking to the skies on a hang-glider.

Hidden between the white sands of Lennox's Seven Mile Beach and the wildlife-rich coastal heathland, Lake Ainsworth is a must. The fresh waters of the Lake are stained "billy-tea" dark by the tea trees that fringe its banks. Take the plunge into its deep red waters and you'll emerge feeling remarkably refreshed and revitalised. You can skim its shimmering surface on a sailboard, 'cat' or canoe or just lie back under the tea trees. Lake Ainsworth is the perfect backdrop for Lennox's monthly markets (second and fifth Sundays) and you can camp on the foreshores.