8 Must-Visit Barrington Coast Towns

These sleepy towns will reel you in with their underrated beauty and charm.

On the Lower Mid North Coast of NSW, the Barrington Coast is a vast region that encompasses the Manning Valley, Great Lakes and Gloucester.

As such it’s a medley of rolling country valleys, snaking rivers and a swirling emerald and turquoise coastline, with a plethora of under-the-radar towns that are prime for chilled-out getaways. Here, eight of the best towns on the Barrington Coast.

1. Blueys Beach

This small pocket of coast was thrown into the spotlight when Tourism Australia’s ‘beach expert’ Brad Farmer named Boomerang Beach one of country’s best for 2023. In fact, we also included it in our 100 Emerging Destinations.

an aerial view of Blueys Beach, Barrington Coast — Blueys Beach is a perfect surfing spot in Pacific Palms. (Image: Destination NSW)

The crescent-shaped stretch of coast, along with its neighbour Blueys Beach, boasts luminous water, pristine sand and a consistent beach break, drawing in surfers and beach-lovers from far and wide. But despite the attention, these ’hoods are the epitome of a languid seaside break.

a family with a dog having fun along Blueys Beach, Barrington Coast — Take a breather at Blueys Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

The tiny township of Blueys Beach is where it’s all at: a handful of dining options including Indo-inspired Kembali Cafe and Hueys at Blueys pizzeria , a small supermarket, a bottle shop and deli, and a zen wellness centre for soothing massages between sand time. Slow, chilled days – what the best beach holidays are made of.

2. Gloucester

Head inland along one of the state’s oldest tourist drives, Bucketts Way to the small country town of Gloucester.

scenic views of the Gloucester River on the Barrington Coast — The Gloucester River connects above the beautiful cascades of Gloucester Falls. (Image: Destination NSW)

Nestled in a valley where the Gloucester, Avon and Barrington rivers meet, this quaint town is overlooked by the Buccan Buccans (Bucketts Mountains) and is known as base camp for adventures in the Barrington Tops National Park , home to the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests.

moss covered trees within Barrington Tops National Park, Barrington Coast — Gaze in awe at the enchanted mossy rainforest of Barrington Tops National Park. (Image: Destination NSW)

Aside from kayaking, bushwalking and mountain biking, the region is rich in Gold Rush history (tours of a nearby gold mine are available), is where infamous bushranger Captain Thunderbolt roamed in the 19^th century, and the surrounding countryside is dotted with cellar doors including Mograni Creek Estate .

3. Old Bar

Flying under the radar, Old Bar is a beachside gem near Taree that has long been a favourite with surfers. Of late, it has also become a music lovers’ pilgrimage, with the arrival of Boogie Woogie Beach House in 2016.

friends entering the Flow Bar in Boogie Woogie Beach House, Old Bar, Barrington Coast — Drink booze with your friends at Boogie Woogie Beach House. (Image: Destination NSW)

This motel turned music-themed hotel (including rooms adorned with Dave Grohl, Bowie and Nick Cave iconography) is host to a packed calendar of live music events. For a small town, Old Bar sure packs a punch, with the recently renovated Finns at Old Bar offering a coastal-chic stay, and a handful of great eateries including Sai Thai and Buyi Espresso Bar .

4. Bulahdelah

Once a thriving small town popular catering to travellers on long road trips across the state, Bulahdelah flew off the radar once the bypass was built. But this inland town, meaning ‘the meeting place of two rivers’, is well worth a longer linger.

Bulahdelah is blessed with abundant waterways, some 130 kilometres in fact, where houseboating is an idyllic holiday choice.

Myalls Lake Getaway Houseboats hires out a range of houseboats to skipper yourself around this large freshwater lake system, where you can spend unhurried days kayaking, swimming and fishing.

Overlooking the township, Bulahdelah Mountain is a legislated Aboriginal Place of the Worimi People. Located within Bulahdelah State Forest , there are three walking tracks that take you to the Worimi Cultural Area and the mountain lookout, through a verdant landscape of towering Blackbutt trees and grass trees.

5. Hawks Nest

Hawks Nest is one of those coastal towns that families return to again and again for nostalgic holidays. Days are spent in the sun, sand hopping between its incredible beaches.

a couple kayaking along Karuah River off Jimmys Beach, Hawks Nest, Barrington Coast — Paddle your way around Karuah River off Jimmys Beach, Hawks Nest. (Image: Destination NSW)

Bennetts Beach, also known as The Dolphins Playground, is a great spot for surfing, while Jimmys Beach, a family favourite for its sheltered swimming conditions, is a pristine five-kilometre arc between the Myall River and Yacaaba Headland.

an aerial view of Bennetts Beach, Hawks Nest, Barrington Coast — The sun rises majestically over Bennetts Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

You can reach the tip of this headland on a challenging yet scenic six-kilometre hike from Bennetts Beach, weaving underneath angophora and through grass trees, up a steep rocky track to the forested ridge top. From here you’ll have panoramic views to Seals Rock and Tomaree Headland.

6. Seal Rocks

There’s only one road in and one road out, which is part of the beauty of Seal Rocks. This isolated surf village has been luring surfers in for decades, who set up camp in either Treachery Camp , Reflections Seal Rocks or Yagon Campground . You’ll need to bring all provisions, as there’s also only one shop.

an aerial view of Number One Beach, Seal Rocks, Barrington Coast — Opt for a remote getaway at Number One Beach, Seal Rocks. (Image: Destination NSW)

Continuing on with the theme, the town’s main beach is also known as Number One. It’s good for beginner surfers and SUPers, while Treachery Beach and Lighthouse Beach are magnets for old hands.

an aerial view overlooking the scenic waters off Number One Beach, Seal Rocks, Barrington Coast — Soak up sweeping turquoise coastlines at Number One Beach, Seal Rocks. (Image: Destination NSW)

The heritage lighthouse, Sugarloaf Point, has been standing sentinel since 1874 and is still in operation today, using the original main light. There is a walk to the lighthouse, which will take you through coastal forest and up to the headland for a spectacular view of this remote and uncrowded coast.

the Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse atop Sugarloaf Point, Seal Rocks — Capture 360-degree views of the surf village at Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse. (Image: Destination NSW)

7. Wingham

Step back in time at the oldest town on the Barrington Coast, Wingham. A 10-minute drive west of Taree, this town was settled on the banks of the Manning River in 1844 by timber cutters and dairy farmers and retains much of its old-world charm.

Its town square is dotted with glorious Federation-style buildings that are recognised on the National Trust, including the Post Office, the 1889 Australian Hotel (where you can still enjoy a hearty pub meal), the old 1929-built bank, and the Wingham Museum , which is housed in an 1870 building and displays a rich homage to yesteryear.

Pick up a map to take the self-guided five-kilometre heritage walk around the historic town and to the river. Spend time exploring Wingham Brush Nature Reserve , a rare subtropical lowland rainforest, home to the vulnerable grey-headed flying fox and gigantic Moreton Bay figs.

8. Forster

OK, we admit this one is a little more roused. But Forster is a long-loved seaside town that still offers the essentials of a slow seaside break. Gloriously set between Wallis Lake and the Pacific Ocean, Forster is an aquatic wonderland.

an overhead shot of people riding a stand-up paddle board along Wallis Lake, Forster — Wallis Lake has crystal-clear waters perfect for stand-up paddle boarding. (Image: Destination NSW)

Take your pick of water-based activities from calm swimming at Main Beach or in the ocean baths, rock-hopping around to the magical pools of Pebbly Beach, or suiting up with Dive Forster and swimming with grey nurse sharks or dolphins.

a mother and daughter riding a stand-up paddleboard along Wallis Lake, Forster — Pace yourself on a stand-up paddleboard. (Image: Destination NSW)

There’s also excellent fishing off the breakwall, whale watching and scenic cruises with Amaroo Cruises , kayaking, SUPing and boating in Wallis Lake, home to dolphins, rays and turtles.

a couple walking along Forster Beach, Forster — Stroll along the white sand path along Forster Beach. (Image: Destination NSW)

The lake is also prime oyster territory; sample them straight from the water at Thirty Three Degrees. Across the lake, Mexican cantina Si Senorita is a lively spot for tacos, tequila and sunsets, or head beachside for an ocean-view lunch at Beach Bums Cafe .

a couple dining at Beach Bums Cafe, Forster, Barrington Coast — Dine by the beachside at Beach Bums Cafe, Forster. (Image: Destination NSW)

Newcastle’s vibrant creativity is evident everywhere, from a thriving live arts scene to an ever-growing offering for gourmands. Those with a hunger for new and exciting experiences should put Newcastle on their radar.

When it comes to consuming the culture of a city, digesting it (in the literal sense) is an appropriate place to start. But it’s not just a world-class wining and dining scene that’s on the menu (not to mention all the new restaurants in Newcastle ). Newcastle – just two hours north of Sydney – offers the perfect blend of arts, culture and culinary experiences that make it a prime destination for an extended escape. The city’s creative future looks even brighter with the reopening of the highly anticipated Newcastle Art Gallery on the horizon.

aerial of Nobbys beach in newcastle nsw — Newcastle offers the perfect coastal setting for the arts and delicious eats. (Image: City of Newcastle)

Given Newcastle’s compact size – many venues are within easy walking distance or a quick drive away – you can immerse yourself fully. From decadent patisseries to fine diners and casual coastal eats, here’s a fresh taste of Newcastle: where to eat, drink and soak up the coastal city’s good vibes.

1. Pastry cafes in Newcastle

pastries next to a pastry box from crumb cafe in newcastle — Lean into Newcastle’s pastry renaissance at Crumb. (Image: Jemma Donkin)

Pastry is having a moment, with a quietly booming scene led by CRUMB, the brand-new pastry cafe in Lambton led by legendary Gareth Williams (of Covered in Crumbs, EXP) and Ben Richardson (Autumn Rooms). Gareth describes his style of food as ‘creative chaos’. Enjoy that abstract artisanal approach over a savoury chorizo, bechamel, cheddar and poppy pastry, or a layered mortadella and pesto mayo croissant sandwich.

Meanwhile, Leibe European Pastries, Pekárna, Union St Pastry and Praise Joe also have their own flair and loyal followings. While Liebe European Pastries is famed for layered German pastries such as Franzbrötchen, Pekárna’s signatures (like cardamom pastries) are tethered to Czech traditions.

Head a few blocks west to Wickham, where Union St Pastry is the pinnacle for lovers of European-style viennoiseries, such as croissants and Danishes. A getaway to Newcastle also looks pretty fabulous with a mega brownie or chicken little toastie from Praise Joe .

2. Destination dining

Blanca resuarant in newcastle nsw — Step inside Mediterranean-inspired eatery, Blanca. (Image: Destination NSW)

Life looks pretty peachy from a table at the breezy Mediterranean-inspired eatery Blanca , which would not be out of place in Mykonos – when it swooped into the Honeysuckle Precinct a few years ago, it caused heads to swivel. Say yasou to mezedes of crudo di mare and sheftalia and grilled Abrolhos Islands’ octopus.

One may also fantasise about being back in Europe – specifically the 10th arrondissement in Paris – at Frenchie , the oh-so-French bistro that offers Euro-chic elegance with an inventive Australian flair. Indulge in the Date Night set menu, available every Thursday.

Peregrin is another stand-out. Listen to the sound of the ocean from the rooftop terrace, and order a Summertime Sour during aperitivo hour. Followed by the yellowfin tuna with pickled cucumber and market fish. And brand new on the scene is Papalote – a joint venture from the incredibly talented owners of Humbug and Flotilla serving up tasty Mexican classics.

3. Casual coastal cafes and kiosks

people swimming at Newcastle Ocean Baths — Follow Newcastle’s coastline for stunning views and tasty eats. (Image: David Diehm)

What better way to soak in Newcastle’s legendary coastline and stunning beaches than by visiting its casual coastal eateries while on the Bathers Way?

Enjoy hot chips and scallops on the sand at Swell Kiosk Bar Beach . Or a housemade sausage roll after a morning surf at Newcastle Beach, thanks to Southy Canteen , which is open from 6am.

Bring your furry travel companion to Sunnyboy Kiosk for a piccolo and puppuccino with views out to Dixon Park Beach. Try light eats, like acai bowls, or more substantial meals like nasi goreng at Blue Door in Merewether. Do a few lazy laps at Merewether Ocean Baths (the largest in the southern hemisphere) before tucking into swordfish skewers and salad at Merewether Surfhouse .

You can also watch the ocean compose a bit of magic from your perch at The Kiosk Newcastle Beach , where a matcha latte looks even better with the beach fresco.

Pause between eats to take in the iconic Newcastle Ocean Baths and Bogey Hole – perfect for a digestive swim or scenic picnic spot.

4. Hatted restaurants in Newcastle

couple eating at Flotilla newcastle — Flotilla serves up delicious meals. (Image: Destination NSW)

In recent years, Newcastle’s restaurant scene has evolved to include venues that have elevated the city’s reputation for culinary excellence. In addition to its cafes and kiosks, there’s now an exciting wave of hatted favourites putting Newcastle on the map.

Humbug is the epitome of Novocastrian dining; the mafaldine with brisket and beef cheek braised in Pedro Ximenez is emblematic of what the owners aim for here. Flotilla neatly knits the Newcastle wining and dining scene together, with young gun Josh Thurston showcasing the art of cooking proteins and produce over fire.

Bistro Penny is another sophisticated, hatted dining destination in Newcastle. Order the barbecued king prawns swimming in a saffron broth and the oxheart tomato salad.

5. Newcastle nightlife

Bartholomew's small bar in newcastle nsw — Stop by Bartholomew’s for a drink. (Image: Destination NSW)

As the sun dips in the west, so the city of Newcastle’s nightlife springs to life. Maru Hi-Fi is the next-gen small bar that’s redefining a night out in Newy – the sleek space serves great cocktails and embraces Newcastle’s alt attitude. Next door, Jams Karaoke & Bar is also bringing the vibes.

If a small bar in a grand old building is more your style, check out Roxanne , Bar Mellow and Bartholomew’s .

Start planning your Newcastle culinary coastal getaway this summer at visitnewcastle.com.au.

8 sleepy towns you should visit on the Barrington Coast