Wallis Lake

Wallis Lake is a stunning coastal lake system on the NSW mid-north coast, just south of Forster. Its crystal-clear waters, protected by a series of barrier islands and the Booti Booti National Park, create a calm, shallow playground perfect for swimming, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. The lake is also a vital oyster-growing region, and you can sample freshly shucked Sydney rock oysters at waterfront shacks or join a guided oyster tour. The surrounding lakeside towns of Forster and Tuncurry offer a relaxed holiday vibe with excellent cafés, seafood restaurants, and easy access to national parks.

Highlights & What to See

• Kayak or SUP on the lake – Paddle through the calm, shallow waters past oyster leases and bird-filled mangroves; hire gear from Forster.
• Oyster tasting tours – Visit working oyster farms like The Little Oyster or Wallis Lake Oyster Co. for shucking demos and fresh oysters.
• Booti Booti National Park – Walk the coastal track from Cape Hawke to Elizabeth Beach for panoramic views over the lake and ocean.
• Forster Marina – Stroll the boardwalk, watch fishing boats come in, and dine at waterside restaurants.
• Sandbar swimming – At low tide, sandbars appear near the Tuncurry bridge – perfect for kids and a classic summer spot.
• Whale watching – During migration season (June–November), join a cruise from Forster to see humpbacks.

Suggested Time to Spend

Spend at least two full days to properly enjoy Wallis Lake and its surrounds. Use the first day to explore the lake by kayak or paddleboard, visit an oyster farm, and relax at a beachside café. Dedicate the second day to a walk in Booti Booti National Park and a sunset cruise on the lake. If you have a third day, head south to the Myall Lakes region or north to the Manning Valley.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast system of lakes and waterways 30 minutes south, ideal for canoeing and birdwatching.
• Blueys Beach & Boomerang Beach – Stunning Pacific beaches with surf breaks, 20 minutes south of Forster.
• Seal Rocks – A tiny coastal village with a historic lighthouse, fur seals, and excellent snorkelling, 40 minutes south.
• Barrington Tops National Park – A World Heritage-listed wilderness of rainforest and waterfalls, about 1.5 hours inland – great for hiking and camping.
• Port Stephens – A popular holiday region with dolphin cruises, sand dunes, and coastal walks, 1 hour south.

Please check official sources for current details.