Old Bar

Old Bar is a laid-back coastal village on the NSW Mid North Coast, where the Manning River meets the Tasman Sea. It’s a haven for surfers, anglers, and families seeking uncrowded beaches and a relaxed pace. The town’s name comes from a sandbar that once blocked the river mouth, creating a calm lagoon perfect for swimming and kayaking. With its friendly community, excellent fishing spots, and easy access to the Wallamba River, Old Bar offers a quintessential Australian beach holiday without the fuss.

Highlights & What to See

• Old Bar Beach: A patrolled stretch of golden sand ideal for swimming, with great waves for beginner to intermediate surfers. The southern end is popular for rock fishing.
• Manning River: Launch a kayak or stand-up paddleboard from the boat ramp; the river is calm and teeming with birdlife. Fishing charters depart from the nearby town of Harrington.
• Old Bar Reserve: A coastal bushland with walking trails, picnic shelters, and a playground. Look for wallabies at dawn and dusk.
• Wallamba River: A quieter tributary perfect for canoeing and spotting sea eagles. The Wallamba River picnic area has free electric barbecues.
• Saltwater National Park: Just north, this park protects coastal heath and offers short walks to dramatic sea cliffs and blowholes.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day enjoying the beach and river, but two nights allows you to explore the surrounding national parks and fishing spots. Arrive early to secure a prime spot at the beach; afternoons are perfect for a paddle on the river or a walk in the reserve. If you’re self-driving, Old Bar makes a convenient overnight stop between Sydney and Byron Bay.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Forster-Tuncurry: A 45-minute drive north offers stunning beaches, the Great Lakes Marine Park, and the iconic Forster Main Beach.
• Crowdy Bay National Park: 30 minutes south features coastal walks, the Diamond Head headland, and the historic Crowdy Head lighthouse.
• Hallidays Point: 15 minutes north has Black Head Beach and a golf course with ocean views.
• Taree: 15 minutes inland is the regional hub with the Manning Entertainment Centre and the historic Wingham Brush Nature Reserve.
• Myall Lakes National Park: An hour south offers pristine lakes, sand dunes, and the Grandis, one of the tallest flooded gums in the world.

Please check official sources for current details.