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Cairns, Queensland to Ballina, New South Wales from $110: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cairns, Australia
to
Ballina, Australia

How to Get from Cairns to Ballina: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$110 - Plane, BusBest price
1557 kmDistance
6h 10m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cairns to Ballina with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
6h  10m
Estimated price
$127-472
Recommended
Company
Various
Plane
Bus
Average Duration
8h  26m
Estimated price
$110-420
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1557 km
Duration: 6h 10m

See more options

Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
28h  45m
Estimated price
$130-4
Company
Various
Bus
Average Duration
33h  5m
Estimated price
$147-219
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
8h  3m
Estimated price
$155-452
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
23h  12m
Estimated price
$250-370
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Traveling From Cairns to Ballina

Embarking on the journey from Cairns to Ballina offers a striking contrast between Cairns' tropical landscapes and vibrant rainforest and Ballina's serene coastal charm and stunning beaches.

Best Neighbourhoods in Ballina

Ballina's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Ballina Central
• Vibrant shops and restaurants abound.
• Close proximity to the river and parks.
East Ballina
• Pristine beaches for sunbathing and surfing.
• Scenic coastal walks along the shoreline.
Skennars Head
• Quaint village atmosphere with local cafes.
• Stunning views from nearby coastal lookout.

Best Times To Visit Ballina's Attractions

Timing your visit can greatly enhance your Ballina experience.

Cape Byron Lighthouse
Early mornings or weekdays offer fewer crowds and breathtaking sunrise views.
Ballina's Beaches
Visit during early afternoons for sunny weather and less congestion.
Richmond River
Late afternoons provide calm waters and a picturesque sunset walk.

Ballina Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Ballina enjoys a subtropical climate with warm summers and mild winters, making it inviting for visitors any time of year. The best months to experience comfortable weather are from April to October, enhancing outdoor activities and allowing you to fully appreciate the coastal scenery.

Dining Recommendation in Ballina

For a unique culinary experience, try the local seafood at the award-winning restaurant, The Fishermen's Café, where the catch of the day reflects the fresh flavors of the ocean. Unlike Cairns' tropical dishes, Ballina’s cuisine embraces a more laid-back coastal vibe, focusing on the natural tastes of local ingredients in a relaxed waterfront setting.

Cairns - Ballina operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cairns and Ballina, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane
Website
https://flybonza.com

Plane from Cairns Airport to Gold Coast Airport

Average Duration
2h 15m
Estimated price
AU$75-220

Plane from Cairns Airport to Ballina

Average Duration
8h 3m
Estimated price
AU$155-452
Website
https://qantas.com

Plane from Cairns Airport to Gold Coast Airport

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
AU$100-550

Plane from Cairns Airport to Brisbane

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
AU$120-550

Plane from Cairns Airport to Ballina via Sydney

Average Duration
6h 15m
Estimated price
AU$180-600
Website
https://jetstar.com

Plane from Cairns Airport to Gold Coast Airport

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
AU$100-550

Plane from Cairns Airport to Ballina via Sydney

Average Duration
5h 40m
Estimated price
AU$140-500
Train
Contact phone
1800 872 467
Website
https://www.queenslandrailtravel.com.au

Train from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
29h 5m
Estimated price
AU$120-170
Bus
Contact phone
13 34 10
Website
https://premierms.com.au

Bus from Cairns Central Station to Brisbane Roma Street

Average Duration
29h 5m
Estimated price
AU$120-170

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Ballina CBD Tamar St Bus Interchange

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
AU$21-29
Contact phone
+612 6685 7447
Website
https://www.byronbayshuttle.com.au

Bus from Gold Coast Airport to Ballina CBD Tamar St Bus Interchange

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
AU$29-35

Bus from Brisbane International to Ballina CBD Tamar St Bus Interchange

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
AU$40-50

Bus from Brisbane Roma Street to Ballina CBD Tamar St Bus Interchange

Average Duration
3h
Estimated price
AU$40-50
Contact phone
1300 473946
Website
https://www.greyhound.com.au

Bus from Cairns to Brisbane

Average Duration
30h
Estimated price
AU$170-430

Bus from Brisbane to Ballina

Average Duration
3h 45m
Estimated price
AU$26-45

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cairns to Ballina.

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The distance between Cairns and Ballina is approximately 1557.8 km. By air, the typical travel time to reach Ballina from Cairns is around 8 hours and 6 minutes. Alternatively, taking a combination of flying to Gold Coast and then traveling by bus takes about 6 hours and 10 minutes. By road, it would take approximately 23 hours and 12 minutes to drive from Cairns to Ballina, while traveling by bus would take about 33 hours and 5 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cairns to Ballina is to fly and take a bus. This option takes approximately 6 hours and 10 minutes and costs between $120 and $420. Flying directly to Ballina is slightly faster but more expensive, taking around 8 hours and 6 minutes and costing between $140 and $350.
The prices for a bus ticket from Cairns to Ballina can range from $142 to $209.
To travel from Cairns to Ballina without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 2011.7 km, which takes approximately 23 hours and 12 minutes. This option allows you the flexibility of stopping at any desired locations along the way. However, it is important to consider the cost of fuel, tolls, accommodation, and the wear and tear on your vehicle, which can range from $250 to $370.
To travel from Cairns to Ballina without a car, you can take a train and bus combination, which takes approximately 28 hours and 45 minutes. The cost for this journey typically ranges from $130 to $280.
No, there is no direct link between Cairns and Ballina. However, you can take a bus from Cairns Central Station to Ballina CBD Tamar St Bus Interchange via Brisbane Roma St Bus Stop, which takes approximately 33 hours and 5 minutes, including transfers. The bus services are operated by Premier Motor Service and Byron Easy Bus.
The flight duration between Cairns and Ballina is typically 2 hours and 15 minutes on a direct flight. However, flight prices can vary between $147 and $347.
There are several accommodation options available near Ballina. There are over 515 hotels in the area, with prices starting at $56.

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