Holiday houses in Harrington

Harrington is located a few hours north of Sydney, on the stretch of the New South Wales coast renowned for its pearly white sands, clear waters, and world-class surf. This popular seaside village boasts a 5.6-kilometre beach where visitors come to swim, surf, fish, and spot whales frolicking close to the shoreline. Harrington is steeped in maritime history, with a river walk devoted to its shipbuilding days. The whole area is dotted with landmarks that showcase its seafaring heritage, including Pilot Hill and Crowdy Head lighthouse, which once helped guide boats through the local waterways and over the perilous sandbar.

The village is located between two nature reserves. Crowdy Bay National Park has 9,159 hectares of seafront parklands, which offer camping, picnic areas, fishing, and walking trails. Harrington State Park is famous for its panoramic views and 430 acres of coastal land, sand dunes, and rock pools. If you’re looking for a Harrington accommodation and are keen on watersports, opt for a cabin or house along the Manning River with its array of swimming and aquatic hotspots. You can also enjoy some of the area’s other activities, including golf, tennis, and bowls.

They say there’s never a bad time to visit New South Wales, but spring and autumn are the ideal times if you want bright blue skies, an abundance of burgeoning nature, colourful foliage, and the sand to yourself. Summer is for those who like it hot, although there are plenty of waterways, rivers, and of course the sea to cool off in. October is the ideal time to enjoy live music, when the local festival season brings the Barrington Coast to life. June to August mark the cooler winter months, when you’re most likely to catch a glimpse of visiting whales.

Writer’s retreat

If you find yourself hiking the Metcalfes walking trail in Crowdy Bay National Park, you’ll probably stumble across a literary landmark in the form of a one-roomed, mahogany-slab cabin. Built during World War II by a local farmer, it was designed as an artist’s oasis. Take a peek inside to see the writer’s retreat frozen in time, exactly as it was when used by one of Australia’s most revered writers.

Harrington Lagoon

Didn’t come here for the kiteboarding, surfing, and bodyboarding action along the main shore, you may be glad to find the calmer Harrington Lagoon. With no waves, its shallow waters make it ideal for children to swim in. Additional facilities, including picnic tables, BBQs, and toilets, making it ideal for a family day out.

The Breakwall

In 1894 the town’s iconic breakwall was built to protect the channel. Today, it doubles as a scenic walk and is a popular spot for fishing. At just under three kilometres long, it stretches out in two directions from the centre of Harrington — one heading north towards the Pacific and the other south across the opening to the Manning River. Both have a concrete surface and plenty of seating along the way, making them ideal for anything from a slow amble to a jog or a bike ride.