Shelly Beach Tours and Activities

Shelly Beach showing a beach
Shelly Beach featuring a sandy beach
Shelly Beach showing a sandy beach
Shelly Beach showing a beach
Shelly Beach featuring a beach as well as an individual female

Come to this stretch of coast to find your quintessential Australian beach where summer crowds, fishermen and surfers gather and whales and dolphins swim by.

Shelly Beach is located between the 131-foot (40-meter) high Black and Ballina heads. Watch the surfers ride the waves, laze on the golden sands, listen to the soothing sounds of the ocean or climb up to the headlands for Pacific sunrise views.

Set between Black Head and Ballina Head, Shelly Beach is just as long and just as popular as its neighbor Lighthouse Beach. Walk the length of the 2,300-foot (700-meter) long beach to soak up its serenity and ocean views.

Like Lighthouse Beach, Shelly Beach has two tide rips that run against either headland, which are often connected by a central tide rip as well. But, due to this being a southeast-facing beach, Shelly Beach is more exposed to southerly waves. Depending on the wind direction, pick the beach that looks calmest on the day of your visit.

Swimming isn’t always safe on Shelly Beach, which is only patrolled by the surf life savers from the club at Lighthouse Beach during the summer school vacations. When swimming, watch for rips and longshore currents and stay between the flags. Kids can safely splash around in the small “swimming pool” at the southern end of Shelly Beach. This walled rock pool is part of the beach and fills up with seawater during high tide.

If you are an experienced surfer, you’ll be right at home here. Head to the rocky headlands with either a right or a left surf break, depending on which headland you pick. Fishing from the flat, rocky platforms at either end of Shelly Beach is another popular activity.

Shelly Beach is backed by the residential suburb of Richmond Hill in East Ballina and just a short drive from the city center of Ballina. There are four car parks that serve the beach. Adjacent Lighthouse Beach has a kiosk at the surf life saving club and a café that teamed up with Botero, an esteemed coffee roastery from the nearby Clarence Coast. The beach has an outdoor shower for those wanting to rinse off the sand and salt.

Plan a trip to see Shelly Beach

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
YEHS Hotel Sydney CBD

YEHS Hotel Sydney CBD

3.5 out of 5
Sydney Central Business District
Save 100% on your flight
per person
18 Sept - 21 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Sydney (SYD)
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,003 reviews)
Within walking distance to city transport. I had the standard single room which is quite small but adequate for 1 night.

Reviewed on 3 Aug. 2025

YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites

YEHS Hotel Sydney Harbour Suites

4 out of 5
Sydney Central Business District
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per person
8 Sept - 13 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Sydney (SYD)
8.2/10 Very Good! (2,195 reviews)
The front desk staff is very friendly and helpful. Very convenient and perfect location. Close to shopping Center and Chinatown. Surrounded by so many good restaurants. The only downside is our room is quite noisy and cant sleep specially during heavy traffic. I wish they have double glass windows to cut the traffic noise. On our second day the cleaner didn’t empty the rubbish and wash all the cups and mugs. Apart from that all good.

Reviewed on 4 Aug. 2025

Rydges Sydney Central

Rydges Sydney Central

4.5 out of 5
Surry Hills
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per person
8 Sept - 13 Sept
found 1 day ago
Return flight included
Adelaide (ADL) to Sydney (SYD)
8.6/10 Excellent! (1,020 reviews)
Room was clean and comfortable, the restaurant was nice and had good breakfast options. Staff were very friendly. Pool and hot tub were clean and quiet

Reviewed on 2 Aug. 2025

Popular places to visit

Lighthouse Beach

Lighthouse Beach

4.5/5(16 reviews)

This beach on the southern side of Ballina Head is a popular place for the locals to cool off in summer or surf year round.

Lighthouse Beach
Angels Beach

Angels Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Angels Beach during your trip to East Ballina? Wander the beaches in this relaxing area.

Angels Beach
Pat Morton Lookout

Pat Morton Lookout

4/5(1 review)

You can find out about the history of Ballina with a trip to Pat Morton Lookout. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Pat Morton Lookout
Lennox Head showing a sandy beach

Lennox Head Beach

4.5/5(300 reviews)

If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Lennox Head Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Lennox Head. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Lennox Head Beach
Lennox Head which includes a sandy beach and cycling as well as a couple

Seven Mile Beach

4.5/5(21 reviews)

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Seven Mile Beach during your travels in Lennox Head? Stroll along the lakeside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Seven Mile Beach
Lake Ainsworth Sport and Recreation Centre

Lake Ainsworth Sport and Recreation Centre

4/5(19 reviews)

You can take time to visit Lake Ainsworth Sport and Recreation Centre during your travels to Ballina. While you're in the area, stroll along the beautiful beaches.

Lake Ainsworth Sport and Recreation Centre

Top Shelly Beach Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron

Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron

4.5 out of 5
2 Martin Street, Ballina, NSW
Ramada Hotel and Suites Ballina Byron
Ballina Beach Resort

Ballina Beach Resort

3 out of 5
Compton Drive (Corner Cedar Crescent), East Ballina, NSW
Ballina Beach Resort
Discovery Parks - Ballina

Discovery Parks - Ballina

4.5 out of 5
25 Fenwick Drive, East Ballina, NSW
Discovery Parks - Ballina
Ballina Palms Boutique Motel

Ballina Palms Boutique Motel

4 out of 5
Cnr Owen Street & Bentinck Street, Ballina, NSW
Ballina Palms Boutique Motel
Ballina Homestead Motel

Ballina Homestead Motel

4 out of 5
Cnr Cherry Street & Fox Street, Ballina, NSW
Ballina Homestead Motel
Reflections Shaws Bay - Holiday Park

Reflections Shaws Bay - Holiday Park

3 out of 5
1 Brighton Street, East Ballina, NSW
Reflections Shaws Bay - Holiday Park
Grandview Apartments Ballina

Grandview Apartments Ballina

4 out of 5
3-7 Grand View Street, East Ballina, NSW
Grandview Apartments Ballina
The Cubana Ballina

The Cubana Ballina

3 out of 5
329 River St, Ballina, NSW
The Cubana Ballina
Coast Inn Motel

Coast Inn Motel

3 out of 5
311 River Street, Ballina, NSW
Coast Inn Motel
See all 400 properties in Shelly Beach
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Shelly Beach

During your visit to Shelly Beach, Ballina, immerse yourself in the natural beauty of stunning beaches and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the coastline. Don’t miss the chance to visit the wildlife retreat to connect with local fauna. For relaxation, indulge in a rejuvenating day spa experience, and for golf enthusiasts, the Shelly Beach Golf Club offers a fantastic day out on the greens.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Ballina Fair Shopping Centre, just 3.2km from Shelly Beach, offering a variety of shops and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out Bangalow Market and Byron Community Market, located 13 and 24.1km away, respectively, for unique local finds.

Recreation

Ballina Golf Club offers a picturesque setting for golf enthusiasts, just 1.6km from Shelly Beach, with lush greens and a vibrant atmosphere. For relaxation, visit Lake Ainsworth Sport and Recreation Centre, 9.7km away, providing rejuvenating wellness activities. Experience the luxury vibes at Ballina Jockey Club, located 3.2km away.

Adventure

The Cedar Walk Trailhead, 35.4km from Shelly Beach, offers a scenic hike through lush landscapes. Similarly, the Platypus Walk Trailhead, also 35.4km away, immerses you in beautiful nature. For a unique experience, the Water Dragon Walk Trailhead, 35.4km from Shelly Beach, showcases stunning outdoor adventures.

Nightlife

Catch a flick at Brunswick Picture House, a charming cinema 35.4km from Shelly Beach, perfect for family outings or a romantic date. For a more vibrant atmosphere, explore local pubs with live music and craft beers, adding to the lively nightlife scene.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Shelly Beach

In and around Shelly Beach, Ballina, you'll discover stunning beaches, lush reserves, and even a nudist beach for those seeking a unique experience. Popular activities include soaking up the sun at spectacular Shelly Beach and exploring the nearby Shelly Beach Holiday Park, perfect for outdoor and adventure enthusiasts. This coastal gem offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, ensuring an unforgettable getaway.

  • Lennox Head Beach: Only 8.0km from Shelly Beach, Lennox Head Beach offers stunning surf and sandy shores perfect for a relaxing day in the sun. The laid-back atmosphere is ideal for beach lovers seeking to unwind or catch some waves.
  • Pat Morton Lookout: Situated 6.4km away, this lookout provides breathtaking views of the coastline and is a popular spot for couples and adventure seekers. Enjoy a picnic while soaking in the scenic beauty and watching surfers ride the waves below.
  • Ballina Naval and Maritime Museum: Just 3.2km from Shelly Beach, this museum showcases the rich maritime history of the region. Explore fascinating exhibits that highlight naval heritage and local culture, making it a great educational experience.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Shelly Beach

When planning your trip to Shelly Beach, consider visiting during May to June or August for better accommodation rates. Book your hotel about a month in advance or check Expedia for last-minute deals, especially on Tuesdays, which tend to be cheaper. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and sort prices from low to high. Don't forget to combine your hotel, flights, and activities for extra savings through package deals. Explore free activities like beach walks and local parks to keep costs down while enjoying the beautiful scenery.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Shelly Beach are May to June and August, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Shelly Beach about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Shelly Beach is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Shelly Beach is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to narrow down your options based on your budget, preferred location, and the type of accommodation you desire. To find the best deals and lowest prices, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your Shelly Beach hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.