Lennox Head:
Genuinely world-class – a long, green, often hollow, consistent right-hand point. Has the most ridiculously difficult entry and exit over yards of slippery, circular rocks. Everyone gets nailed at some point – including the locals.
North Wall Ballina:
On the northern breakwall of the Richmond River in Ballina is a consistent right-hander as well as beachbreaks that stretch 500 yards north. This isn’t the sort of wave that you’d travel across the world for, but it is remarkably consistent and punchy. Check it when your options are limited in Byron.
South Wall Ballina:
A dreamy lefthander that provides, like Tallows in Byron, one of the few options when the wind is from the northeast. When it’s on, it’s a furious performance wave, especially for goofy-footers like 1999 world champion Mark Occhilupo who often makes cameos there.