Forster

Forster is a laid-back coastal town on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, where the sparkling waters of Wallis Lake meet the Pacific Ocean. It's a quintessential Australian beach destination, beloved for its family-friendly vibe, excellent fishing, and easy access to stunning national parks. The twin towns of Forster and Tuncurry are connected by a bridge, offering a compact area perfect for a self-drive break between Sydney and Brisbane.

Highlights & What to See

• One Mile Beach – A sweeping stretch of golden sand with patrolled swimming and great surf breaks. It's the town's iconic beach, ideal for sunbathing, bodyboarding, and coastal walks.
• Wallis Lake – This vast, pristine lake is the heart of Forster's water-based activities. Hire a kayak, take a cruise, or try your hand at fishing for flathead and bream. The lake's calm waters are perfect for stand-up paddleboarding.
• Cape Hawke – A short but steep walk leads to a lookout tower offering panoramic views of the coastline, the lake, and the surrounding national parks. Sunrise or sunset here is unforgettable.
• Booti Booti National Park – Just south of town, this park protects coastal rainforest, dunes, and pristine beaches like Elizabeth Beach. Walk the Booti Hill track for sweeping ocean views.
• Forster Main Beach – Also known as The Entrance, this patrolled beach is popular for swimming and has a lively promenade with cafes and picnic spots.
• Wallis Lake's Oyster Farms – The lake produces some of NSW's best oysters. Visit a local shack or join a tour to taste them fresh from the water.

Suggested Time to Spend

Forster is a perfect two- to three-day stop. Spend your first day exploring the beaches and lake, perhaps with a kayak or fishing charter. On day two, hike in Booti Booti National Park and enjoy a seafood lunch. If you have a third day, take a day trip to the nearby Myall Lakes National Park or simply relax by the water. The town is compact, so you can easily pace yourself with a mix of active and lazy beach time.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens – About 90 minutes south, with stunning beaches, sand dunes, and dolphin-watching cruises.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast system of lakes and waterways, fantastic for kayaking, birdwatching, and camping.
• Seal Rocks – A tiny coastal settlement with a historic lighthouse, excellent surfing, and a colony of Australian fur seals.
• Pacific Palms – A cluster of villages (Blueys Beach, Boomerang Beach) with some of the region's best surf breaks and coastal walks.
• Barrington Tops National Park – A World Heritage-listed wilderness area inland, offering rainforest walks, waterfalls, and cool-climate escapes.

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