Old Bar and Saltwater NSW – A Relaxed Mid North Coast Escape
- Apr 23
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 28
For a laid-back coastal getaway, put Old Bar and Saltwater NSW on your radar. Located around four hours north of Sydney on the Mid North Coast, Old Bar is a quiet beachside town that offers a slower pace without the crowds.
The village has all the essentials for an easy stay, including cafés, a supermarket, post office and casual dining options, making it a convenient base for a weekend or longer coastal break.
Things to Do in Old Bar
Compared to some of the busier destinations along the coast, Old Bar is all about open space and simplicity. The beaches are wide and uncrowded, with picnic areas and barbecues right by the water, including the popular Saltwater picnic area.
Popular things to do include:
Swimming and surfing
Fishing and boating
Riverside and coastal walks
Birdwatching
Exploring nearby national parks
Canoeing and bushwalking
If you’re visiting over the October long weekend, the Old Bar Beach Festival brings a lively atmosphere to town.
Where to Eat in Old Bar
For casual takeaway by the beach, Blowfish is perfectly positioned next to the picnic area and car park. It’s ideal for a quick lunch after a swim, with simple, well-made food and friendly service.
One thing you will notice are the colourful picnic tables, lampposts and seats in Old Bar.
Another local favourite is Flow Bar, a relaxed spot known for good coffee, breakfast options and live music. It also offers accommodation, and there’s a short rainforest walk directly across the road leading to the beach.
Old Bar Beach is clean, open and easy to access, with colourful picnic tables, seating and a relaxed coastal feel. It’s the kind of place where you can spend hours without needing much of a plan.
Old Bar Accommodation
Accommodation options include beach houses, self-contained apartments, caravan park catering to both short stays and longer holidays.
Fresh, light and airy, 2 bed cottage situated in the heart of Old Bar CBD.
Average $171 per night with great reviews.
Ruby's is in a stunning beachside location, with ocean views to match.
Average $431 per night and great reviews
Getting to Old Bar
Old Bar is best explored with your own set of wheels. Use the tool below to compare the best rental rates from Newcastle or Taree airports.
Saltwater National Park
Just a short drive from Old Bar, Saltwater National Park offers a completely different landscape. This is where Khappinghat Creek meets the ocean, creating a striking stretch of water framed by bushland.
The area is known for its cultural significance, with Aboriginal heritage sites connected to Dreamtime stories. It’s also a popular seasonal camping area for local Aboriginal communities.
The Five Islands Walking Track is a peaceful walk through coastal forest, ideal for slowing down and taking in the natural surroundings.
Nearby: Taree
Old Bar is only a short drive from Taree, a larger regional centre with shopping, dining and a scenic riverfront. If you’re visiting in November, the jacaranda trees in bloom add an extra reason to explore the area.