Attractions

20 Things To Do In Forster and Tuncurry

Forster Holiday Village puts you right in the heart of one of the NSW Mid North Coast's most loved coastal destinations. The lake, the beach, the cafes and the town centre are all within easy walking distance, and whether you're here with family, friends or a group, there's plenty to fill your days. Here's our guide to the best things to do in Forster and Tuncurry during your stay.

Outdoor & Water Activities

From beach days to whale season, here's how to make the most of the water on your doorstep.

Beaches and Swimming

Forster is spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches, each with its own character.

Main Beach is the most popular, with gentle waves, lifeguard patrols during school holidays and easy access to cafes and shops. Pebbly Beach is worth a visit for The Tanks, a natural rock swimming area with calm water and great snorkelling. One Mile Beach is the go-to surf spot, with sand dunes perfect for sandboarding and bodyboarding. Burgess Beach is quieter and ideal for early morning rock pool exploring. Nine Mile Beach on the Tuncurry side offers long stretches of open coastline perfect for a walk.

Wallis Lake and Water Activities

Wallis Lake sits right on your doorstep and is one of the highlights of any Forster stay. Hire a kayak, stand-up paddleboard, canoe or boat and spend a morning on the water. Boat hire options may not require a licence depending on the operator, making it easy for everyone in the group to get involved. Keep an eye out for dolphins as you paddle, and if you're feeling adventurous, kayak between the oyster farms and try freshly shucked Sydney Rock oysters straight from the source.

Whale Watching

Whale season runs from June to late October, making Forster a wonderful winter and shoulder-season destination. Humpback and southern right whales migrate along the coast and can be spotted from headlands including Bennetts Head Lookout and One Mile Beach. For a closer look, whale watching cruises are available through Amaroo Cruises. Even outside whale season, dolphin cruises run regularly on Wallis Lake.

Diving and Snorkelling

The Forster and Seal Rocks area is one of NSW's best diving destinations. Grey Nurse sharks are the headline act, with dive sites including Jimmys Cave, Bennetts Head Bommie Rock and The Barge Forster. For snorkellers, The Tanks at Pebbly Beach, Burgess Beach and Shelly Beach are all accessible and family-friendly options. Marine life in the area includes wobbegongs, rays and turtles.

Fishing

Forster is a serious fishing destination with options to suit every level. Cast a line from the breakwall, hire a boat on Wallis Lake, fish from the lake jetties or head offshore on a deep sea charter. Species in the area include bream, mulloway, mackerel, cobia and yellowfin tuna.

Walks, Lookouts and National Parks

Forster has some beautiful coastal walks that are easy to fit around a beach day. The Bicentennial Walkway links Main Beach to Bennetts Head Lookout and takes in coastal views along the way. Cape Hawke Lookout is a short steep walk through littoral rainforest to a raised platform with sweeping views over beaches, lakes and forest. Booti Booti National Park is a short drive away and offers longer walking tracks, coastal rainforest, wetlands and over 210 species of birdlife.

Food & Drink

Fresh seafood, local oysters and a craft beer to finish the day.

Seafood and Local Dining

Fresh seafood is one of the great pleasures of a Forster holiday. Sydney Rock oysters from Wallis Lake are a must, and local oyster bars including Hamilton's Oyster Bar, Barclay Oysters and Colin Wren Oysters are worth a visit. For dining, Thirty Three Degrees, Spice Monkey, Si Senorita and Wharf Street are popular local options. Grab a coffee at Nineteen 59, Marcella's Deli or Tartt to start your morning before heading out for the day.

Craft Beer

The Coastal Brewing Company is Forster's local microbrewery, with a 1,200 litre brewhouse and tasting room. Pick up a few bottles to enjoy back at the cottage BBQ or settle in for a tasting session after a day on the water.

Family & Group Activities

Easy days out for families and groups, rain or shine.

Golf and Bowls

The Forster Tuncurry Golf Club offers two coastal courses and is a favourite among group travellers and social golfers. The local bowls club is also just a short walk from the village, making it an easy addition to any group itinerary.

Markets

The Forster Farmer's Market runs on the third Saturday of each month and is a lovely way to spend a morning. Browse fresh produce, local arts and crafts, plants, jewellery, clothing and gifts.

Family-Friendly Activities

Forster is easy for families because so much is close together and low-effort to plan. The Forster Entertainment Centre has tenpin bowling, laser skirmish and Jurassic-themed putt putt golf all under one roof, making it a great option for school holiday mornings or when the kids need something different. The Great Lakes Aquatic and Leisure Centre offers an indoor pool, spa, sauna and gym if you want a swim outside of the village.

Rainy Day Options

A cloudy day in Forster is no reason to stay inside. Great Lakes Cinema 3 in Tuncurry is a short drive away, and Stockland Forster has department stores, grocery shops and specialty retailers for a relaxed browse. Self-contained cottages also make wet days easier: cook a big breakfast, play some games and head out when the weather clears.

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