A Lap of the Richmond River Ballina with the Pups

If you’re in Ballina with a couple of four-legged supervisors and an hour to stretch the legs, the Richmond River loop is perfection. We start at the waterside near the Ramada Hotel and Suites, follow the river path around the point, then wander back to the trees at Fawcett Park for shade and a lazy sit. Simple. Scenic. Zero fuss.

The walk

The riverside path is flat and friendly, hugging clear blue water the whole way. Pelicans patrol like grumpy lifeguards, tinnies hum past, and the river throws back that glassy afternoon shimmer that makes you forget email exists. Keep pups on leash and let them clock the smells along the rocks while you clock the views. You’ll circle around the Ramada boardwalk, then rejoin the paved path that leads straight to Fawcett Park’s lawns and leafy cover. It’s an easy out-and-back with plenty of benches for a breather.

Puppy perks

There are grassy stretches for sniff-inspections, bins dotted along the path, and enough shade in the park to keep the olds comfy. Bring a collapsible bowl. On a warm day you’ll want water stops, and the breeze off the river helps, but Ballina sun does not muck around.

Eats and sips

This pocket of town is spoilt for choice. Cafes along River Street do a strong flat white and quick bites for a post-walk refuel. By late arvo the restaurants kick into gear, and by night the waterfront is buzzing. Expect date nights, big tables, and that cheerful clatter that says the kitchen’s firing. If you’re hanging around, grab a table with a river outlook and watch the lights blink on across the water.

Parking and access

Parking’s easy along River Street and around Fawcett Park. Paths are pram and wheelchair friendly, and there’s loads of space so you’re not dodging cyclists every five seconds. If you need shade straight away, park at the park first, then do the loop in reverse.

Local notes

Trent used to live here and still goes soft at the sight of this river. It’s one of those walks that works at any time of day: crisp mornings, bright lunchtime laps, and golden hour when the sky slides from blue to honey. After dark you’ll spot locals fishing from the edge, with esky chairs, quiet yarns, and the occasional “got one” moment that pulls a crowd.

Why we love it

• Effortless views with no steep bits

• Pelicans, boats, and endless sky for mental reset

• Dog-friendly on-leash with shade at the finish line

• Food and coffee within a few steps of the path

Make a night of it

If you’re in town, come paint with us. Our Ballina Paint and Sip sessions roll out nearby with singalongs, simple shapes, and a crowd that actually laughs out loud. Do the river loop with the pups, grab dinner by the water, then join us for brushes, banter and a canvas you’ll be weirdly proud of. Ballina, you beauty.