Tuncurry

Just across the bridge from Forster, Tuncurry feels like a quieter, more laid-back sibling — a place where the Wallis Lake meets the sea and the pace slows to a gentle coastal rhythm. With its long sandy beach, a working fishing fleet, and a string of excellent seafood spots, Tuncurry is the kind of destination where you can spend the morning kayaking on the lake and the afternoon with your toes in the sand.

Highlights & What to See

• Tuncurry Beach – a sweeping stretch of sand that’s perfect for long walks, swimming, and surfing; patrolled in summer and never crowded.
• Wallis Lake – explore the calm, oyster-rich waters by kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or on a scenic cruise; keep an eye out for dolphins and pelicans.
• Tuncurry Fishing Co-op – grab a freshly cooked fish and chips or a plate of local oysters and watch the trawlers unload their catch.
• John Holland Park – a shady lakeside reserve with a playground, picnic tables, and a jetty for fishing or launching a kayak.
• Forster-Tuncurry Bridge – walk or cycle across for panoramic views of the lake and ocean, especially at sunset.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days gives you time to relax on the beach, paddle on the lake, and enjoy the local seafood scene. If you’re on a road trip, a single overnight stop works well: arrive in the afternoon, explore the beach and lake, and have a seafood dinner before moving on. Tuncurry is also an excellent base for day trips to the nearby Booti Booti National Park and the Wallis Lake oyster farms.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Forster – just over the bridge, with a lively town centre, the One Mile Beach, and the stunning Cape Hawke lookout.
• Booti Booti National Park – a coastal reserve with walking trails, secluded beaches, and the iconic view from the top of the Cape Hawke headland.
• Seal Rocks – a tiny, unspoiled coastal village with a historic lighthouse and excellent surf beaches, about 40 minutes south.
• Port Stephens – a one-hour drive south, offering sand dunes, dolphin cruises, and the Tomaree National Park.
• Myall Lakes National Park – a vast network of lakes and waterways perfect for canoeing, fishing, and camping, about 30 minutes south-west.

Please check official sources for current details.