Harrington

Harrington is a sleepy coastal village on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, where the Manning River meets the sea. It's a place of quiet beaches, working fishing boats, and a pace of life that feels a world away from the nearby holiday hubs. For travellers seeking a genuine, unpolished slice of coastal Australia, Harrington rewards with its laid-back charm and easy access to nature.

Highlights & What to See

• Crowdy Head National Park – just south of town, this headland offers dramatic ocean views, lookouts for whale watching (June–November), and a historic lighthouse. The short coastal walks are superb for spotting seabirds and wildflowers.
• Harrington Beach – a long, uncrowded stretch of sand perfect for surf fishing, beachcombing, or simply watching the waves. The southern end near the river mouth is popular for swimming when conditions are calm.
• Manning River – explore the river by kayak or small boat; it's a peaceful waterway lined with mangroves and birdlife. The boat ramp at the end of the main street makes launching easy.
• The Entrance Channel – watch the fishing boats come and go, and look for pelicans and dolphins that often feed in the turbulent waters where the river meets the sea.
• Harrington Village – a compact main street with a couple of cafés, a pub, and a general store. It's the kind of place where locals still say g'day.

Suggested Time to Spend

A day trip is enough to soak up the main sights: a morning walk on the beach, a picnic at Crowdy Head, and an afternoon exploring the river. For a more relaxed pace, stay one or two nights in a holiday rental – the village empties out after sunset, making it ideal for a quiet escape. If you're self-driving up the coast, Harrington works well as a short stop between Port Macquarie and Forster.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Crowdy Head – the national park and lighthouse are just a 10-minute drive south; combine with Harrington for a half-day coastal tour.
• Old Bar – a popular beachside town 20 minutes north, with a surf beach, rock pools, and a lively café scene.
• Taree – the regional centre 25 minutes west, with the Manning Entertainment Centre, the historic Taree Railway Station, and the Manning River walk.
• Wingham – a historic timber town on the Manning River, 30 minutes west, known for its preserved main street and the Wingham Brush Nature Reserve with flying foxes.
• Boomerang Beach & Pacific Palms – about 40 minutes south, these are stunning beaches with clear water and good surf, part of the Great Lakes region.

Please check official sources for current details.