Old Bar

Old Bar is a laid-back coastal village on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, where the Manning River meets the Tasman Sea. It’s the kind of place where your biggest decision is whether to swim, surf, or simply sprawl on the sand with a good book. The vibe is unpretentious and family-friendly, with a strong community feel and a landscape that rewards slow exploration.

Highlights & What to See

• Old Bar Beach: A wide, patrolled beach perfect for swimming, bodyboarding, and long walks. The southern end is popular with surfers, while the northern end offers calm tidal pools for kids.
• Saltwater National Park: A short drive north, this coastal reserve features dramatic sea cliffs, pristine beaches, and a historic cemetery. The Wallaby Point lookout offers sweeping ocean views and whale-watching opportunities in season.
• Manning River: Launch a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the boat ramp near the bridge. The river is a haven for birdlife, and you might spot dolphins cruising the estuary.
• Old Bar Tavern: A classic Aussie pub with a beer garden, live music on weekends, and hearty meals. Try the seafood basket while watching the sunset over the river.
• Boomerang Park: A grassy reserve with a playground, picnic shelters, and direct beach access. It’s a favourite spot for families and a great place to fly a kite on a breezy afternoon.

Suggested Time to Spend

Old Bar is a perfect overnight stop or a relaxed two-day getaway. If you’re on a road trip between Sydney and Byron Bay, a single afternoon and evening here will let you soak up the beach vibes, grab a meal at the tavern, and watch the sunset. For a more immersive stay, spend a full day exploring Saltwater National Park and the river, then enjoy a second morning on the beach before heading off.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Forster-Tuncurry: 20 minutes north, these twin towns offer the stunning One Mile Beach, the Booti Booti National Park walk, and excellent fishing charters on Wallis Lake.
• Taree: 15 minutes inland, the Manning Valley’s main hub has the Manning Entertainment Centre, the historic Taree Railway Station, and the Big Oyster sculpture. It’s a good place to stock up on supplies.
• Crowdy Head: A 30-minute drive north, this headland features a historic lighthouse, a seal colony, and the remote Crowdy Bay National Park with its dramatic sand dunes and wild beaches.
• Hallidays Point: Just south of Old Bar, this coastal strip includes the beautiful Red Head Beach and the Black Head surf break, plus the Hallidays Point Coastal Walk with panoramic views.
• Myall Lakes National Park: About an hour south, this vast system of lakes, forests, and beaches is ideal for canoeing, bushwalking, and spotting goannas and wallabies. The Mungo Brush Rainforest Walk is a highlight.

Please check official sources for current details.