Forster Tuncurry

Straddling the shores of Wallis Lake, the twin towns of Forster and Tuncurry offer a quintessential NSW coastal escape. Connected by a graceful bridge, these laid-back settlements are all about sparkling waterways, uncrowded beaches, and a relaxed pace of life that instantly slows the clock. With a strong local food scene centred on fresh seafood and a hinterland of national parks, this is a place to swim, kayak, and eat your way through a perfect few days.

Highlights & What to See

• Wallis Lake – The shimmering heart of the region. Hire a kayak, join a cruise, or simply picnic on the foreshore and watch the pelicans glide by.
• One Mile Beach – A stunning stretch of sand backed by dunes and coastal heath. Great for swimming, surfing, or a long walk at sunset.
• Cape Hawke Lookout – A short but steep walk rewards with panoramic views over the coast, lake, and hinterland – especially magical at dawn.
• Boomerang Beach & Blueys Beach – Just south of town, these pristine surf beaches are less crowded and perfect for a day of sun and swell.
• Forster Main Beach – Patrolled and family-friendly, right in town, with a scenic rockpool and easy access to cafes.
• The Great Lakes – A network of coastal lakes and rivers ideal for fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Explore by paddleboard or charter boat.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days is ideal for Forster Tuncurry. Spend day one exploring the beaches and taking a lake cruise; day two can be a mix of bushwalking in the nearby Booti Booti National Park and sampling the local oysters at a waterfront shack. If you have a third day, venture further south to the quieter beaches or head into the hinterland for a taste of the region’s dairy and wine country.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Booti Booti National Park – Coastal rainforest and dramatic headlands with walks to secluded beaches and the historic Cape Hawke.
• Pacific Palms – A string of pristine surf beaches (Blueys, Boomerang, Elizabeth) just 15 minutes south, with excellent cafes and a bohemian vibe.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast wilderness of lakes and forests, perfect for canoeing, camping, and spotting goannas and wallabies.
• Port Stephens – An hour north, this aquatic playground offers dolphin cruises, sand dunes, and the massive Stockton Bight.
• Hunter Valley Wine Region – About 90 minutes inland, Australia’s oldest wine region is a must for cellar-door tastings, gourmet food, and hot-air ballooning.

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