Current time in Ballina, Ireland

Ballina is located in County Mayo, Ireland, with GPS coordinates of 54.11667 latitude and -9.16667 longitude. It lies along the River Moy, approximately 10 kilometers from the Atlantic coast. The city operates within the Europe/Dublin timezone.

Ballina is known for its rich fishing heritage, particularly salmon fishing, attracting enthusiasts from various regions. The town hosts the annual Salmon Festival, celebrating its fishing traditions and local culture. Additionally, Ballina has regional significance as a center for commerce and services in the surrounding rural areas.

The beautiful landscapes and proximity to natural attractions, such as the nearby Erris Peninsula, further enhance its appeal as a destination in Ireland.

Timezone in Ballina

Ballina is located in the Europe/Dublin timezone, which has a UTC offset of +0 during standard time. When daylight saving time is in effect, typically from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, the offset shifts to UTC +1. This means that during standard time, Ballina operates at UTC +0, while it operates at UTC +1 during the summer months.

When considering the time difference to the United States, Ballina is generally five hours ahead of Eastern Standard Time and eight hours ahead of Pacific Standard Time. This time difference can create practical challenges for communication, as reaching someone in Ballina during typical business hours may require contacting them very early in the morning or late at night for individuals in the U.S. For those looking to contact someone in Ballina, the best time would typically be between 9 AM and 6 PM local time, which corresponds to 4 AM to 1 PM on the East Coast and 1 AM to 10 AM on the West Coast.

Compared to other major cities in the region, such as Galway and Limerick, Ballina shares the same timezone and daylight saving practices, making coordination relatively straightforward within these areas.

Attractions and Activities in Ballina

Ballina is a picturesque town located in County Mayo, Ireland, known for its rich heritage and proximity to the River Moy, famous for salmon fishing. The area is characterized by its stunning natural landscapes, with the river offering not only fishing opportunities but also scenic walks along its banks. Ballina serves as a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way, attracting visitors with its breathtaking coastal views and dramatic cliffs.

The town has a vibrant cultural scene, highlighted by events such as the Ballina Salmon Festival, which celebrates the town’s fishing traditions and features a variety of activities, including music, food, and sports. Ballina is also home to historical landmarks like the 19th-century St. Muredach’s Cathedral and the historic Ballina Arts Centre, which showcases local talent and hosts various performances.

The blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes Ballina a noteworthy destination in the west of Ireland.

Practical Information for Visitors

Ballina is conveniently served by Ballina Byron Gateway Airport, located just 5 kilometers from the town center, offering domestic flights primarily from Sydney and Melbourne. For those preferring ground transport, bus services connect Ballina to nearby cities like Lismore and Byron Bay, while train services can be accessed in nearby towns. The climate in Ballina is generally mild, with warm summers and mild winters.

Average temperatures in summer range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius, making it an attractive destination year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the autumn months of March to May when the weather is pleasantly warm and the tourist crowds are smaller. When visiting Ballina, it’s practical to bring sunscreen and a hat, as the sun can be intense, especially in summer.

Additionally, don’t miss the local coastal walks and the beautiful beaches, such as Lighthouse Beach and Shelly Beach. Exploring the nearby Richmond River and enjoying the local seafood cuisine are also highly recommended activities for an authentic experience.