Wallis Lake

Wallis Lake is a vast, shimmering estuary on the NSW mid-north coast, just south of Forster. Fed by the Coolongolook, Wallamba and Wang Wauk rivers, it's a paradise for water lovers — think flat, protected waters perfect for kayaking, sailing and stand-up paddleboarding, plus some of the best oyster production in Australia. The lake is ringed by national parks, quiet beaches and sleepy holiday towns, making it a serene counterpoint to the surf beaches further south.

Highlights & What to See

• Oyster Tasting Trail: Wallis Lake is famous for its Sydney rock oysters. Join a guided tour or simply stop at shacks like The Oyster Barn or Bent on Food for freshly shucked bivalves with a view.
• Kayak the Lake: Paddle through the calm, tannin-stained waters fringed by paperbarks and mangroves. Hire a kayak at Forster or Tuncurry and explore hidden inlets and birdlife.
• Wallis Lake Walking Track: A gentle 4km trail from Forster to the lake's edge, offering panoramic views across the water to the distant mountains.
• Boating & Fishing: The lake is a prime spot for flathead, bream and whiting. Launch a boat from one of the many public ramps, or join a charter for a day on the water.
• Pacific Palms: The string of beaches along the lake's southern shore — including Boomerang Beach and Blueys Beach — offer brilliant swimming and surf breaks.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors base themselves in Forster or Tuncurry for 2–3 days to fully appreciate the lake. A half-day is enough for a paddle and oyster lunch, but to explore the quieter southern shores, nearby national parks (Wallingat and Booti Booti) and the lake's many islands, plan for a full day on the water. If you're self-driving the coast from Sydney to Byron Bay, a one-night stop is a relaxed way to break the journey.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Forster & Tuncurry – twin towns straddling the lake's entrance, with a lively waterfront, shops and restaurants.
• Booti Booti National Park – a narrow peninsula between the lake and the sea, with excellent coastal walks and lookout points.
• Wallingat National Park – rainforest and river walks on the lake's western side, home to the massive 'Grandis' flooded gum tree.
• Cape Hawke – a short drive south of Forster, climb the lookout for sweeping views from the lake to the coast.
• Myall Lakes National Park – a larger lake system to the south, offering more paddling and birdwatching.

Please check official sources for current details.