| The
best of the surf beaches are those around the small town of LENNOX
HEAD, 11km north of Ballina, a relaxed
resort with a small shopping centre, some good cafés and restaurants and
a lively pub. Lennox rates among the top ten surfing spots in the world
and professionals congregate here for the big waves in May, June and July.
Adding to Lennox Head’s appeal is the calm, fresh water of Lake
Ainsworth close to the beach: stained dark by the tea trees around its
banks, it’s a popular swimming spot for families seeking refuge from the
crashing surf; and the soft, practically medicinal water is wonderful for
your skin. Lennox Head Sailing (tel 02/6687 6010), on the lake, rents out
sailboards and can arrange lessons. |
|
| Ideally
situated between the lake and the beach, Lennox Head Backpackers,
2–3 Ross St, is a relaxed place where massage and aromatherapy are
available in-house; there’s free use of boards and fishing gear, as well
as bargain rental of windsurfers and catamarans. Also in a prime position
is the Lake Ainsworth Caravan Park on Pacific Parade. The Mexican food
at Pancho Villa, Ballina Street (tel 02/6687 6171; BYO; Mon–Thurs
& Sun dinner), is popular with surfies; Lennox Head Chinese, 63
Ballina St (BYO; daily from 5pm), is also recommended. The Lennox Point
Hotel serves great pub food with a Mediterranean slant, and hosts
bands on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights.
Since Lennox Head is off the Pacific Highway,
only one Greyhound bus a day makes it out here; Kirklands also
stops in town daily, and there are local services to and from Byron Bay. |