Harrington is a gateway to one of Australia's most beautiful coastal headland, beaches and national parks. Harrington is a perfect morning's drive from Sydney, and it's approximately 3.5 hours north of Sydney and 30 km northeast of Taree.
Head off 7 kilometres past Harrington, you'll find Crowdy Head fishing village and Lighthouse. Built in 1878 and situated high on the Headland, the
Crowdy Head Lighthouse offers the best views of the
Three Brothers Mountains (North, Middle, South), as well as the
Diamond Head. The panoramic views of the coastline and the hinterland are simply breathtaking.
Crowdy Head Lighthouse
The Three Brothers Mountains & the Diamond Head
The first station in the area was a pilot station, which is a scenic spot with maritime heritage. Established in 1860, the
Pilot Station was built on the hill to assist ships loaded with cargoes of timber, livestock and limestone to navigate the entrance of the Manning River at Harrington. The Station was closed in the 1960s due to the downfall of the shipping industry.
Pilot Hill Lookout
To keep the ships and boats clear of sandbars and the breakwater-wall,
John Gollan, the tugboat, was built in 1888 by Caption Hector Gollan and serviced the entrance for Manning River for 48 years. Sometimes, three or four boats were linked by tow rope to the tugboat to pass through the river mouth. The service, performed by the pilots of the tugboat, plays an important role of shipping industry. A small graveyard on the hill serves as a remembrance of Harrington's once thriving maritime presence.
Sandbars & Breakwater Wall
Continue your exploration in
Harrington Waters, a fairly new town set in a location amongst national parks and beautiful beaches. Shops, cafes and church are on the doorsteps. To get there, it will take 20 minutes drive from Taree and 40 minutes from Port Macquarie and Forster.
Shops, Cafes & Community Church in Harrington Waters
Don't miss out the
Harrigan's Irish Pub in this town. Nestled right on the banks of the picturesque Manning River in Harrington Waters, this Irish pub offers you spectacular views, while you can relax and enjoy a mix of Irish and Austrian dishes.
The Entrance, Harrigan's Irish Pub
Grab a table on the banks of the Manning River, which is the best spot to relax and enjoy your drinks and meals
Harrington and Crowdy Head are perfect destination for your holiday. There are lovely motels and self-contained holiday houses/apartments around the area. Start planning and take a short getaway trip to take in the true culture and beauty of these places.
