Things To Do
in Taree

Taree is a charming regional town on the Manning River in New South Wales, known for its friendly community and easy access to river and coastal scenery. It serves as a gateway to the Manning Valley, offering leafy parks, markets, and relaxed cafes with a laid‑back coastal vibe. The town blends rural character with growing regional amenities, including galleries and outdoor recreation options.

Its location on the Mid‑North Coast makes day trips to Port Macquarie, Laurieton, and beyond a convenient possibility.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Taree's Riverside
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the Manning River. Enjoy the serene morning atmosphere as you watch the birds and boats glide by. A breakfast at a local café offers the perfect opportunity to fuel up for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Visit the Taree Heritage Railway Station, exploring the rich history of the area. Take a short drive to the nearby Ellenborough Falls, where you can marvel at one of the tallest waterfalls in New South Wales. Pack a picnic to enjoy surrounded by nature's beauty.

evening
:

Wind down with dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring local cuisine and views of the water. As the sun sets, consider a tranquil boat cruise to capture the stunning evening colors. End the night with a casual walk along the riverbank.

day 2
Discovering Local Markets
morning
:

Kick off your day at the Taree Farmers Market where local produce and handmade goods abound. Sample fresh fruits and pastries while engaging with friendly vendors. This market experience will fill your morning with vibrant sights and flavors.

afternoon
:

After the market, visit Manning Point Beach for some fun in the sun or a leisurely picnic. Explore the rock pools and enjoy a swim in the refreshing ocean. Alternatively, take a scenic drive south to Old Bar Beach for more coastal adventure.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head back to Taree for a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant. The relaxed atmosphere provides the perfect setting to enjoy fresh seafood and local wines. Cap off your evening with a stroll along the beach, listening to the soothing sound of the waves.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$15-25
Coffee at a café$3-5
🛏️One-night mid-range hotel$100-180
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$40-70
🧭Weekly public transport pass (local area)$20-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Relaxed pace and friendly locals
  • Proximity to river and beaches with outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife compared to big cities
  • Smaller range of dining and shopping options outside peak tourist times

Places to Visit in Taree

Visit one of these nice places.

Manning River Foreshore

Wide river views, boats, and golden hour reflections—ideal for wide landscapes and reflections.

Taree Bridge and Riverside Park

Historic bridge framing the river with park greens—great for skyline and pedestrian views.

Manning Regional Art Gallery exterior

Architectural lines and urban textures in the town’s cultural heart; good for architectural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Taree

Taree’s cuisine centers on fresh seafood from the Manning River, regional produce, and relaxed Australian dining with multicultural influences. Expect casual cafés, riverfront eateries, and pubs that showcase local ingredients and simple, flavorful dishes.

Taree Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Barramundi with lemon myrtle

Fresh locally caught barramundi prepared with a citrusy lemon myrtle seasoning, commonly served with seasonal greens.

Must-Try!

Manning Valley seafood platter

Assorted seafood from local waters—prawns, fish, and shellfish—often served as a share plate.

Damper with bush tomato relish

Classic Australian bread served with a tangy bush tomato relish for a simple, regional bite.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Taree Markets

Weekly markets offering fresh produce, seafood, artisanal goods, and street snacks along the riverfront.

Riverside Food Stalls

Seasonal food trucks and stall setups along the waterfront during events and weekends.

Climate Guide

Weather

Taree has a coastal climate with warm summers and mild winters. Humidity can be noticeable in the warmer months, while rainfall is possible year-round but typically higher during the late summer and autumn seasons. The coastal breeze moderates temperatures, making evenings comfortable most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

G’day and friendliness

Greet with a friendly 'G’day' and a smile; Australians value casual, direct communication and good-natured conversations.

Queues and personal space

Join queues calmly, respect personal space, and wait your turn in shops and markets.

Dress and sun protection

Casual, comfortable clothing is common; wear sunscreen and hats for outdoor activities.

Safety Guide

Safety

Overall, Taree is a safe regional town. Typical travel safety tips apply: lock vehicles, keep valuables out of sight, and use daylight hours for walking in riverfront and park areas. Mosquito protection may be advisable in warmer months near water; check local alerts for weather and flood conditions in the Manning Valley area.

Tipping in Taree

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia. If service is exceptional, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip at restaurants or cafes is appreciated but not expected.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm to hot days with high humidity; thunderstorms possible. Pack sunscreen, hats, and stay hydrated; enjoy river breezes and coastal trips.

Autumn

Milder temperatures and pleasant days; good for outdoor exploring and markets without the peak heat.

Winter

Cooler days with comfortable daytime temperatures; nights can be chilly but rainfall is relatively moderate.

Spring

Warming weather, blooming landscapes, and comfortable conditions for hikes and outdoor dining.

Nightlife Guide

Taree at Night

Taree offers a relaxed nightlife scene centered around pubs, riverside bars, and small live-music venues. Expect casual evenings, social drinking, and community events rather than high-energy club scenes. Some venues host seasonal markets, performances, or seasonal food and wine events along the riverfront.

Hiking in Taree

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ellenborough Falls Trail

A scenic rainforest trail leading to one of NSW’s tall waterfalls; a rewarding 1–2 hour round trip.

Crowdy Bay National Park Coastal Walks

Coastal trails with sea cliffs and beaches, offering diverse viewpoints and wildlife viewing.

Manning Valley Forest Walks

Gentle forest trails around the Manning Valley for shaded strolls and bird sightings.

Airports

How to reach Taree by plane.

Taree Airport (TRE)

Small regional airport serving domestic flights; close to town.

Port Macquarie Airport (PQQ)

Larger regional airport with more frequent services; about a 1–1.5 hour drive depending on route.

Coffs Harbour Airport (CFS)

Another regional option with more flight connections, further north along the coast.

Getting Around

Walkability

Taree is reasonably walkable in the town center and along the riverfront. A car is handy for exploring the wider Manning Valley and regional parks. Within the CBD, key sights and cafés are within comfortable walking distance.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

A family-friendly town with parks, schools, and community activities.

Retirees

A popular area for retirees seeking a relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Indigenous communities

Part of the broader cultural tapestry of the region with local history and community networks.

Seasonal workers and visitors

Visitors and seasonal workers contribute to the local economy, especially in warmer months.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Rugby league

Popular in regional NSW with local clubs and community games.

Cricket

Common in parks and sports grounds during season, especially in warmer months.

Surfing

Coastal beaches nearby attract surfers and families seeking waves and safety zones.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate in the town center with occasional congestion on peak commuting hours. The Pacific Highway provides the main north-south route, and public transport is available but less frequent than in big cities; a car is convenient for accessing regional parks and beaches.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Taree.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common in cafes and pubs; look for veggie mains, hearty salads, and dairy/egg alternatives, and ask for dressings with local herbs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Taree through the Manning Base Hospital and local clinics, with additional services in nearby Port Macquarie. For specialized care, many residents travel to larger centers along the coast.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

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