Midway between Taree and the Great Lakes region is the coastal area of Hallidays Point - Diamond Beach (population 1000). Most people who visit this coastal area are surprised at what they find. The Lands department has established a rainforest walk encompassing striking coastal landforms as well as rare tracts of coastal rainforest. This walk takes in two headlands being Black Head and Red Head and is joined by Black Head Beach. Lands Department Brochures are available at the Tourist Information Centre. Diamond Beach is perhaps one of our best kept secrets with two of the best resorts in the Valley backing onto sand dunes adjacent the Pacific Ocean. The Lavender Gardens boast over 25 varieties of Lavender on display and for sale. Restaurants provide just the setting for a romantic dinner for two or perhaps the whole family would like to dine out. Accommodation is available in resort, unit and caravan parks in this popular holiday destination area of the Manning Valley.

HARRINGTON

The Northern arm of the Manning River reaches the ocean at Harrington (population 1600). The long breakwall dominates the river at this point, providing excellent fishing for the enthusiast.

From Pilot Hill Lookout expansive views of the coastline are afforded. The graves atop this hill atest to the pilots whose jobs it was to guide the boats over the treacherous bar to enable the timber to be picked up at the ports of Wingham and Taree.

Harrington is one of the fastest growing holiday destinations in our area, with units, motels, hotels and caravan parks providing accommodation for visitors.

Safe lagoon swimming is available at Harrington, providing full family outings with BBQ and picnic areas.

The local hotel and bowling club provide the evening entertainment, with restaurants also operating throughout the township. The shopping centre at Harrington all those necessities for the perfect holiday.

CROWDY HEAD

Only 4km from Harrington is the quaint fishing village of Crowdy Head, home of the local fishing fleet. Crowdy headland provides excellent fishing spots, together with the opportunity for the less fortunate to buy fish at the local co-op.

Crowdy Beach sweeps in a long arc through to Diamond Head in the National Park and because of the protection of the fishing harbour, offers safe swimming for the family.

Crowdy Head Surf Club is again another very active in the Manning Valley. The motel accommodation available in Crowdy Head is limited. The lighthouse perched high on the headland is easily accessed by sealed road and gives excellent views of the coastline, both north and south. Even on a cloudy day the coastline through to Manning Point and Old Bar is visible.