Answer first
- Operators
- NSW TrainLink
- Cheapest known fare
- From $20 with NSW TrainLink, seen when we last checked on 2 Oct. This operator prices by demand, so confirm it on their site.
- Distance
- 115 km by road
- Booking
- Booking is direct with the operator, not through AusBus.
The route at a glance
The Surfers Paradise–Ballina corridor.
Surfers Paradise to Ballina is one of the more frequent short-haul coach corridors of 115 kilometres along the Pacific Highway connecting QLD and NSW. NSW TrainLink runs the corridor; check their timetable for departure times and seat availability. Most services run frequently enough that day-of bookings are usually fine outside peak times.
Journey essentials
- Onboard
- Toilet · Wheelchair access
- Luggage
- 1 × 40kg checked bag
Compare operators
Who runs this route.
NSW TrainLink
ToiletWheelchair access40kg luggageBookon NSW TrainLinkFrom$20Services
Depart Arrive Runs 4:00 AM 6:39 AM Daily 2:15 PM 4:52 PM Daily
Fares are indicative. Live pricing may vary by date and availability. AusBus earns a small commission on some bookings at no extra cost to you.
Spotted an error or a missing operator on this route? Let us know.
Travel tips
What to know before you go.
Short-hop coach services on this corridor run frequently enough that walk-on fares are usually available, but Friday afternoon and Sunday evening departures fill faster than other times. NSW TrainLink coaches connect with the rail network at multiple regional hubs. If you're continuing onwards, booking train and coach as a single combined fare is usually cheaper than two separate tickets. Arrive at the terminal at least 15 minutes before departure. Most operators begin boarding 10 minutes prior to the scheduled time and won't hold the coach for late passengers. Check the operator's luggage policy before you travel. Most include one checked bag (40 kg) and one carry-on, but allowances vary by carrier and additional bags usually attract a fee.
Route FAQs
Surfers Paradise to Ballina, answered.
- The coach route is about 115 kilometres.
- NSW TrainLink operates services on this route. Use the operator comparison above to see which suits your travel date, budget and preferences for amenities like Wi-Fi, USB charging and onboard toilets.
- Yes. NSW TrainLink runs a direct service on this corridor, so you can travel Surfers Paradise to Ballina without changing coaches. Check the timetable above for current departure times.
- Services on this route offer an onboard toilet and wheelchair access. Amenities vary by operator and vehicle, so check the specific service when you book.
- NSW TrainLink runs both coach and rail services. The XPT/Xplorer trains are usually faster and more comfortable on long-haul corridors but run less frequently. Coaches are more direct from Sydney Coach Terminal and connect with regional services.
- Last-minute seats are sometimes available, but never guaranteed, particularly on Friday afternoons, Sunday evenings, and during school holidays. Booking online a few days ahead is strongly recommended and almost always cheaper.
- Most operators include one checked bag (up to 40 kg) and one carry-on bag in the ticket price. Additional bags usually attract a fee. Check the specific operator's luggage policy at the time of booking.
Keep going
Onward from Ballina.
Continuing past Ballina? These coach corridors carry on from your arrival city.
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