Things to do in Taree, NSW: Best attractions and activities

The best things to do in Taree, New South Wales, include scenic flights from Taree Airport, tandem skydives and the Dawson River Walking Track in the Brimbin Nature Reserve.

Taree, New South Wales, is the sort of town that tends to be forgotten about as tourist rush north from Sydney to Port Macquarie or Newcastle to Coffs Harbour. It’s an inland regional hub on the Manning River, but most visitors only have eyes on the coast.

The Big Oyster, one of Australia’s silly roadside Big Things, is the obvious symbol of the town. But most of the best things to do in Taree revolve around the Manning River and Taree Airport.

Things to do in Taree, NSW: Scenic flights from Taree Airport

From the airport, the Manning River Aero Club operates scenic flights across the Manning Valley. The 25 minute trip takes in Crowdy Head, Harrington and Old Bar before returning to Taree. This scenic flight costs $310 for up to three passengers.

There are, however, longer, more expensive flights that take in Forster and Ellenborough Falls.

If you want your flight to have a bit more of an adrenalin rush, you can always jump out of the plane.

What to do in Taree, NSW: Tandem skydives

Skydiving NSW Drop Zone runs tandem skydives, jumping from heights of up to 14,000ft. The cheapest jumps, from 8,000ft, cost $280, and there are extra charges for photo and video packages.

If you’re more interested in the river than the skies, the Apex Lookout at Bays Hill in the west of town offers splendid views. Fotheringham Park and Queen Elizabeth Park near the Martin Bridge are also good spots for a picnic and riverside run around.

Things to do in Taree, NSW: Brimbin Nature Reserve

Other things to do in Taree, New South Wales, include the Manning Regional Art Gallery, which is frankly inessential but might fill an hour or so. And, to the north of town, there’s the Brimbin Nature Reserve. There’s a picnic area here, plus a couple of enjoyable walking trails.

The Dawson River Walking Track starts at the Brimbin Picnic Area. This moderate 1.5km loop follows the mangroves and connects to an old bullock route. There’s plenty of birdlife, and you might see a koala, too.

Best Taree accommodation

Taree accommodation is available for from $105 per night. But the best choices are…

For central location: In Town Motor Inn.
For good value and a pool: Caravilla Motor Inn.
For charm and warmth: Birches B&B.
For distinctive character: A Railway Lodge.

The Taree Heritage Walk in Taree, NSW. Photo courtesy of Destination NSW.

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