Perched on the stunning Mid North Coast of New South Wales, Old Bar is a charming seaside town offering a laid-back coastal lifestyle, strong community spirit, and easy access to modern amenities. Known for its beautiful beaches, great surf, and welcoming atmosphere, Old Bar is an ideal destination for families, retirees, and sea-change seekers looking for a peaceful yet connected place to call home.
Beaches & Outdoor Lifestyle
Old Bar Beach is the heart of the town, offering golden sands, rolling waves, and a relaxed vibe that makes it a favourite among surfers, swimmers, and beachgoers. The beach is also dog-friendly, making it perfect for morning walks with four-legged companions. Nearby Wallabi Point, just a few minutes away, is a hidden gem with excellent surf breaks and rock pools for exploring.
Nature lovers can enjoy Saltwater National Park, located just south of Old Bar, which is home to stunning coastal walks, native wildlife, and opportunities for kayaking and fishing in the Khappinghat Creek. The Old Bar Heritage Walk is another popular activity, showcasing the town’s rich history and picturesque coastal scenery.
Community & Local Amenities
Old Bar has a strong and friendly community, with a range of local events, markets, and clubs that bring residents together. The Old Bar Beach Festival, held annually in October, is a major highlight, attracting thousands of visitors with its vintage car displays, live music, market stalls, and family-friendly activities.
The town is well-serviced with supermarkets, medical facilities, cafés, restaurants, and specialty shops, ensuring residents have everything they need close to home. The Club Old Bar is a central hub for dining, live entertainment, and sporting events, while local cafés such as Flow Bar provide the perfect spot for a relaxed meal with ocean views.
For larger retail options, Taree is just a 15-minute drive away, offering major shopping centres, additional dining options, and essential services.
Education & Schools
Old Bar is a great place for families, with Old Bar Public School providing a supportive learning environment for primary-aged students. High school students typically attend Manning Valley Anglican College or schools in Taree, where both public and private options are available. Several early learning centres and childcare services are also available, catering to young families.
Transport & Accessibility
Old Bar is conveniently located just 15 minutes from Taree, providing easy access to the Pacific Highway. Newcastle is a two-hour drive south, while Sydney can be reached in around three and a half hours. Public transport options include local bus services, and Taree Airport, offering flights to Sydney, is just a short drive away.
Property Market & Lifestyle Appeal
The property market in Old Bar is diverse and affordable, featuring beachfront homes, modern family residences, and low-maintenance villas. With its coastal charm, relaxed pace of life, and growing popularity, Old Bar is an attractive option for first-home buyers, retirees, and investors alike.
Many properties are designed to take advantage of the stunning ocean views and sea breezes, making it easy to enjoy the best of coastal living. Demand for property in the area has been steadily rising, driven by those seeking an escape from city life while still enjoying modern conveniences.
A Coastal Lifestyle with a Strong Community Spirit
Old Bar offers the perfect balance of beachside relaxation and vibrant community living. Whether enjoying a morning surf, a peaceful walk through national parks, or a coffee at a local café, life in Old Bar is all about embracing the laid-back charm of the coast.
For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a friendly, welcoming seaside town, Old Bar is truly a hidden gem worth discovering.