Walking and Cycling
Harrington
Whether strolling along the river's edge or the Breakwall, or watching the sunrise or sunset, there are plenty of enjoyable walks to choose from.
The Breakwall
The Breakwall was built between 1894 and 1927 to protect the shipping channel. Today, it serves as one of Harrington's most scenic walks.
The Breakwall is approximately 2.7 kilometres long, with seating provided along the way where you can stop and rest. It consists of two arms: one extends south-east towards the Pacific Ocean, with sand covering the rocks in parts, while the other heads south-west.
For an enjoyable stroll, brisk walk, jog or bike ride, follow the southern-western arm of the Breakwall towards the gantry. The 1.65-kilometre concrete pathway makes it easy to push a pram or ride a bike.
The Breakwall is hard to miss. Its entrance is on Beach Street, where a large car park is located near the Marine Rescue base.
The Harrington Breakwall
Harrington's Historic Bollards
Take a stroll along the beautiful Harrington Foreshore and discover one of the village's most distinctive public art attractions – the Harrington Historic Bollards.
Installed in 2003 by the then Harrington Chamber of Commerce (now the Harrington & Surrounds Business & Community Association), the bollards were inspired by the famous Baywalk Bollards in Geelong. The project was created to celebrate Harrington's rich history, while adding colour, character and a unique sense of place to the foreshore.
The Chamber commissioned local artist Clifford Allcroft to transform donated timber poles into works of art. Crafted from locally donated grey gum, ironbark and tallowwood, each bollard was individually carved, painted and brought to life to represent people and characters who played an important role in Harrington's past.
Today, the collection consists of 15 historic bollards, located along the Harrington Foreshore between the breakwall and the beginning of the Harrington Heritage River Walk near the boat ramp. They invite visitors to wander the waterfront while discovering stories from the village's early days. The 15th bollard, welcomes visitors as they begin their journey through Harrington's fascinating maritime history.
In 2022, the Harrington Historic Bollards received a fresh lease on life when local residents John and Julie Hughes carefully repainted each one, ensuring these much-loved landmarks can continue to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.
The Harrington Historic Bollards are more than colourful artworks—they are a lasting tribute to the people, stories and community spirit that have shaped Harrington for generations. As you explore the foreshore and Heritage River Walk, take a moment to meet each character and discover another chapter in Harrington's remarkable history.
Harrington Rainforest Walk
Escape into nature on the Harrington Rainforest Walk, a peaceful stroll through one of the area’s remaining pockets of coastal rainforest. Starting off Crowdy Head Road just out of Harrington, this easy 600-metre walk winds through lush rainforest vegetation, offering the chance to spot native birds and wildlife along the way.
The track finishes at the edge of the lagoon, where rainforest meets saltmarsh. A gentle walk suitable for nature lovers, families and anyone wanting to experience a quieter side of Harrington.
Crowdy Bay National Park
Crowdy Bay National Park is picture-perfect, with plenty to see and do. Offering stunning views and spectacular flora and fauna, the park is full of life, with wildflowers and birds populating the lagoons and sand dunes. Watch whales migrate during winter from the many lookout points and be captivated by the kangaroos, koalas and cockatoos that call the park home.
The park offers four walking tracks, including:
Crowdy Gap walking track A short and sweet walk through rainforest, with the chance to spot a koala or two.
Diamond Head Loop walk Offering scenic coastal views, stunning lookouts and secluded beaches.
Mermaid lookout track A short hike exploring secluded coves, white sandy beaches and mountain views.
Metcalfes walking track An ideal walk for nature lovers. This relatively easy hike is perfect for families.
The park generally enjoys a warm subtropical climate. However, outside of winter, temperatures can reach above 30°C, so be sure to carry sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water. Drinking water is not available within the park. Winter days and nights can be cool to cold, particularly in exposed areas.
Enjoy picnic tables, BBQ facilities and amenities; however, pets and domestic animals are prohibited.
Access to Crowdy Bay National Park is via either Crowdy Head Road or Diamond Head Road.
For more information visit: National Parks and Wildlife services
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