Taree

Nestled on the banks of the Manning River, Taree is a classic country town that serves as the gateway to the Manning Valley. With a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and a backdrop of lush green hills, it's a perfect stop on a coastal road trip between Sydney and Brisbane. The town's main street is dotted with heritage buildings, op shops, and bakeries that smell of fresh pasties and vanilla slices. But the real draw is the river: kayaking, fishing, and riverside walks are the order of the day. Taree is also the proud home of the Manning Entertainment Centre and a thriving arts scene, making it more than just a pit stop.

Highlights & What to See

• Manning River – The lifeblood of the region. Hire a kayak or join a river cruise to spot pelicans and stingrays; the river is tidal here, so you can paddle up to the historic settlement of Wingham.
• Wingham Brush Nature Reserve – A stunning remnant of lowland subtropical rainforest, just 10 minutes north. Walk the boardwalk among giant figs and flying foxes; dawn and dusk are magical.
• Old Bar Beach – A patrolled surf beach 15 minutes south, with a long rock platform for exploring rock pools at low tide. Great for a morning swim or sunset fish and chips.
• Taree Heritage Walk – A self-guided stroll past the 1880s courthouse, the grand Manning River Times building, and the beautifully restored Taree Railway Station.
• Manning Regional Art Gallery – Housed in a former convent, this gallery showcases local and touring exhibitions, with a focus on Australian landscape and Indigenous art.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers find that half a day to a full day is enough to see Taree's core attractions. If you're passing through on the Pacific Highway, allow a couple of hours for a coffee and a walk along the river. To truly soak up the Manning Valley – including Wingham Brush and Old Bar – plan an overnight stay. The town has several motels and caravan parks, and the riverfront makes for a peaceful evening.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Wingham – A historic village with a beautiful main street and the Wingham Brush Nature Reserve; just 10 minutes north.
• Old Bar – A relaxed coastal village with a surf beach and a popular community market on the first Saturday of each month.
• Forster & Tuncurry – The twin towns on the Wallis Lake system, about 40 minutes south, famous for boating, fishing, and the Booti Booti National Park.
• Port Macquarie – A vibrant coastal city an hour north, with a historic convict precinct, koala hospital, and beautiful coastal walks.
• Gloucester – Inland gem at the foot of the Barrington Tops, about an hour west; a great base for national park adventures.

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