Things to do in Forster

With a wide range of cruising options, on-board catering and a fully-licenced bar, Free Spirit Cruises are the perfect way to sit back and relax as you explore the waterways and wildlife of the Great… Lakes. Private charters and group booking are available for parties and functions of all kinds, so book your wedding or any private function with our experienced crew online today.   Check our the cruise options: https://freespiritcruises.com.au/all-activities/#cruises

GlideTime offers e-foiling near Forster, Pacific Palms and Seal Rocks. Imagine gliding over the water on the world’s best electric hydrofoil board! W-foiling boards are silent, wake-free, and with zero… emissions, so you can experience the Barrington Coast’s pristine waters in an eco-friendly way. ​GlideTime e-foiling experiences are fun and easy to learn. Try 90 minute fun rides, learn-to-foil multi lessons, or bring a group of 4 for an e-foiling Glide Party. Weekdays : by appointment 7am till sunset Saturday: morning session from 8am, afternoon session  from 1:30pm Sunday: morning session from 8am, afternoon session  from 1:30pm Call Mic Evans our Head Coach to check session availability and book: 0408 625 816

Only a short five-minute drive from Forster, the Cape Hawke lookout provides breathtaking coastal views from its dedicated tower, ideal for observing whales.

Bennetts Head Lookout is a viewing platform at the end of Bennetts Head Road in Forster. The lookout is right next to the turning circle and is one of the few lookouts in the region that is wheelchair… accessible. The viewing platform sits out above the rocky headlands giving visitors views south towards The Tanks, Pebbly Beach and the Forster Tuncurry breakwalls. Gazing north and you will see over the headlands towards Cape Hawke and One Mile Beach. Bennetts Head Lookout is one of the best vantage points to spot whales during their migration between May and November.

One Mile Beach, situated within Forster’s residential area, is a beloved destination among both surfers and families. It is closely monitored by lifeguards on holidays and weekends, offering… a safe environment for beachgoers. Adjacent to the beach lies a spacious park featuring barbecue facilities, picnic areas, and playground equipment. At the northern tip of the beach, visitors can access Bennett’s Head lookout, providing breathtaking 360-degree views of the surroundings. This spot is also home to a colossal sandhill, perfect for exhilarating sand sliding and boarding adventures, and offers an excellent vantage point for capturing stunning photos of the beach. Additionally, there’s a picturesque stretch of white sand where dolphins are frequently spotted gracefully riding the waves in the crystal-clear water. Interestingly, the name “One Mile Beach” does not refer to the beach’s length but instead indicates its distance from the Forster post office. It’s important to note that lifeguards patrol this beach diligently, ensuring the safety of beach enthusiasts, especially during the bustling summer holiday season.

Burgess Beach, located along Burgess Road in Forster, is a serene and secluded coastal destination. While it lacks the amenities found on larger beaches, it remains a great choice for families, offering… natural shelter on three sides and numerous small rock caves to explore. It’s important to note that this beach is not patrolled for safety. Nestled between Cape Hawke and Booti Booti National Park, Burgess Beach is renowned for its rocky formations, making it a favored location for thrilling rock hopping adventures.

Discover Booti Booti National Park, located on an 8km stretch of land between the Pacific Ocean and the stunning Wallis Lake, close to Forster. Embark on a day trip to explore its pristine beaches, scenic… walking trails, captivating lookouts, and lush coastal rainforest.

Pebbly Beach is just a brief walk away from Forster’s Main Beach, following the scenic Bicentennial Walk along the coastline. It’s an ideal spot for families, renowned for the captivating Tanks rock formation… that forms a charming inlet, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Despite its name, the beach boasts ample sandy shores, and it features extensive areas of smooth, ocean-polished rocks, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. This location is immensely popular among both tourists and locals for swimming. The adjacent park, situated along the Bicentennial Walk, offers amenities such as a playground, picnic shelters, barbecues, and public toilets. It’s important to note that this beach is not patrolled for safety.

The Tanks, a striking rock formation along the Bicentennial Walk, creates a picturesque rock pool perfect for enjoyable family swimming and snorkeling activities. The name “The Tanks” originates from… a group of steel ship tanks that were once situated here during the construction of the Forster breakwall in the 1890s. These tanks supplied water for the steam engine trains, which transported quarried rocks from Bennetts Head to the current breakwall location. During high tide, The Tanks are filled with water, and as the tide recedes, it unveils the sandy base. The majority of the swimming area is shielded from incoming waves by natural rock formations, providing a safe and entertaining environment for children to swim in. To reach The Tanks, it is advisable to park along Head Street and take a stroll through the nearby reserve toward the ocean. Picnic tables and public restrooms are conveniently located, as well as Pebbly Beach, which features a park and BBQ facilities. Please note that this location is not monitored by lifeguards.

Spanning from the Forster break wall to the Ocean Baths, Forster Main Beach is 563 meters of fun. This beach area is shielded from large waves, making it safe for swimming and ideal for families. Lifeguards… are on duty during the swimming season. Its proximity to cafes and shops allows beachgoers to easily take a break from the sand and enjoy refreshments on a hot summer day. Forster Surf Club is situated here, with the picturesque surroundings of Pilot Hill and Second Head, both offering scenic walking trails. During the summer months, Main Beach is patrolled by lifeguards on weekends, and in October and during school holidays, it is patrolled every day. Forster Ocean Baths, a short walk away, provide a protected swimming area and accessible ramps for visitors.

This nature trail commences at the Forster Ocean Baths, locally known as the ‘Bull Ring’. The path leads from the bathroom block into the bush, to Second Head, offering two scenic ocean viewpoints. Descend… the stairs to Pebbly Beach, then follow the coastline past the popular ‘Tanks’ swimming spot, progressing to Bennetts Head, an excellent location for spotting dolphins. Continue along the Rotary Walk, reaching the sand dune of One Mile Beach. Walk along the shore until you reach Palmgrove Park, and then ascend to the secluded Burgess Beach. The complete trail spans 4km, but you can pause and resume at your convenience.

Not just the place to launch your boat into the water, but also the spot to see huge groups of pelicans congregate hoping for some fish offcuts. These birds are iconic in Forster and are super friendly.… Definitely come at sunset for some great pics.

Catering for  the first time fisho’s to the dedicated seasoned anglers Forster Sport and Game Fishing specialise in deep water jigging and bottom fishing, marlin and pelagic sport fishing charters. With… twenty two years experience locally and have travelled all up and down the east coast for many years, game and sport fishing for many boats and skippers. They utilise their knowledge and experience from the best crews and skippers around. Using the best equipment including Shimano, Tiagrra, Penn International reels and supporting equipment like Black Magic harnesses, Top Shot tag, reelax outriggers and custom teaser rods. They will supply you with refreshments and light snacks on every charter. Full day charters will include lunch also. SHANE CROCKETT Phone: 0413 475 233 Email: marlinshane@hotmail.com

Tuncurry’s Home of Good Times and Great Brews 🍻 If you like your beer fresh, your food full of flavour, and your afternoons easy, this is your kind of place. Just around the corner from Bella Villa,… Pacific Ocean Brewery is where locals and visitors come together for fresh craft beer, tasty coastal eats, and easygoing good times. The brewery is all about great beer brewed on site, from crisp pale ales to bold seasonal specials, paired perfectly with share plates, stone-baked pizzas, and platters made for sinking your teeth into with friends. The atmosphere? Relaxed, welcoming, and full of that laid-back coastal charm that makes everyone feel like a regular. Whether you’re a craft beer devotee or just here to try “some kind of beer,” there’s a pint for you. Grab a tasting paddle, enjoy the flavours of the season, and soak up the vibe — this is Tuncurry, done right.

The Coastal Brewing Company is an award winning family-owned microbrewery based in the coastal town of Forster Tuncurry, NSW. Being based in Forster-Tuncurry and part of the wonderful Barrington Coast,… community is playing a big role in the brewery’s strategy and operations. For The Coastal Brewing Company, it’s all about enjoying L.I.F.E – that’s local, independent, fresh, everytime.  Building on its enjoying L.I.F.E focus, all of the Coastal Brewing Company beer names link to the natural beauty of the Barrington Coast area in NSW. Using all natural ingredients on a 1,200 litre brewhouse, the brewery produces fresh, craft beer for sale in kegs to restaurants, bars, clubs and pubs. Beer is also canned onsite and sold through bottlestores, restaurants and bars.   From 27 April onwards the taproom will adopt our Autumn / Winter opening hours. You can visit the taproom at the brewery (3 Dalman Street, Forster) on Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am – 6pm. Visitors can enjoy a range of regularly, rotating beers on a tasting paddle (89mL or 200mL glasses) and schooners.  Cider, gluten free beer and a range of soft drinks are also available in the taproom.  Cans and cartons can also be purchased from the taproom and we also sell (and fill) ‘growlers’ and ‘squealers’ of beer for takeaway. Light food (chips, nuts and cheeseboards are available at all times) and we also have food trucks from time to time. Food can also be ordered in from local takeaway restaurants. And YES we are children and dog friendly !!

Welcome to Dorsal by the Sea, Forster-Tuncurry’s newest culinary destination! Nestled on Forster’s stunning Main Beach, our restaurant, grill, bar and coffee house offers a vibrant atmosphere where… coastal charm meets modern Australian cuisine. Inspired by our abundance of local seafood and fresh produce, our menu features premium Wagyu steaks, fresh seafood and hearty ribs, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients. Start your day with coffee overlooking Main Beach, enjoy a leisurely lunch, or unwind with cocktails and dinner as the sun sets and you can look out over the ocean. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Dorsal by the Sea promises exceptional food, warm hospitality and unforgettable moments.

Wingman Espresso – Forster’s Best Coffee Spot by the Beach Located directly opposite Forster’s Main Beach, Wingman Espresso is your go-to for exceptional coffee, delicious food, and laid-back coastal… vibes. Whether you’re grabbing a post-swim caffeine fix or settling in for a leisurely brunch, our alfresco dining area is the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine and ocean breeze. ☕ Great Coffee | Delicious Food | Beachfront Location 🌊 📍 Find us at Forster Main Beach🕰 Open daily 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM Come for the coffee, stay for the view!

Step into an authentic slice of Southern Italy, right in the heart of Forster. The Sicilian Restaurant brings the warmth, flavour and relaxed charm of family-style dining to the coast. Inspired by classic… Sicilian cooking and built on the belief that when you’re in, you’re family – just as their grandfather used to say. Here you’ll find hearty, simple & fresh meals crafted from the best local produce, all served in a 1940s-inspired Italian setting. Located at 32 Wharf St, Forster NSW 2428 (guest entrance via Memorial Drive) with sweeping views over the lake. Whether it’s a casual lunch, romantic dinner, or a big celebration with friends and family — The Sicilian sets the scene. Come hungry, stay awhile, enjoy the view, savour the flavour and leave with memories.

Wingman Espresso – Forster’s Best Coffee Spot by the Beach Located directly opposite Forster’s Main Beach, Wingman Espresso is your go-to for exceptional coffee, delicious food, and laid-back coastal… vibes. Whether you’re grabbing a post-swim caffeine fix or settling in for a leisurely brunch, our alfresco dining area is the perfect spot to soak up the sunshine and ocean breeze. ☕ Great Coffee | Delicious Food | Beachfront Location 🌊 📍 Find us at Forster Main Beach🕰 Open daily 6:30 AM – 2:00 PM Come for the coffee, stay for the view!

The Coastal Brewing Company is an award winning family-owned microbrewery based in the coastal town of Forster Tuncurry, NSW. Being based in Forster-Tuncurry and part of the wonderful Barrington Coast,… community is playing a big role in the brewery’s strategy and operations. For The Coastal Brewing Company, it’s all about enjoying L.I.F.E – that’s local, independent, fresh, everytime.  Building on its enjoying L.I.F.E focus, all of the Coastal Brewing Company beer names link to the natural beauty of the Barrington Coast area in NSW. Using all natural ingredients on a 1,200 litre brewhouse, the brewery produces fresh, craft beer for sale in kegs to restaurants, bars, clubs and pubs. Beer is also canned onsite and sold through bottlestores, restaurants and bars.   From 27 April onwards the taproom will adopt our Autumn / Winter opening hours. You can visit the taproom at the brewery (3 Dalman Street, Forster) on Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am – 6pm. Visitors can enjoy a range of regularly, rotating beers on a tasting paddle (89mL or 200mL glasses) and schooners.  Cider, gluten free beer and a range of soft drinks are also available in the taproom.  Cans and cartons can also be purchased from the taproom and we also sell (and fill) ‘growlers’ and ‘squealers’ of beer for takeaway. Light food (chips, nuts and cheeseboards are available at all times) and we also have food trucks from time to time. Food can also be ordered in from local takeaway restaurants. And YES we are children and dog friendly !!

Spice Monkey is a balance of modern and traditional Asian cuisine with a strong Japanese influence with its unique sushi bar. Spice Monkey brings a new vibrancy to Forster restaurants with our large outdoor… share-table overlooking the pristine Wallis Lake or inside at our large or round booth tables seating up to 12 and 6 people.

Start the day the with salt water, breakfast & a sunrise, overlooking Forster’s Main Beach & the Pacific Ocean. Our seasonal breakfast & lunch menu includes healthy & gluten-free options… as well as sweet treats & great coffee. Enjoy fabulous ocean views and a friendly atmosphere all year round, 7 days.

A café passionate about local produce and superior coffee. This is a must.

Offers you a variety of the freshest seafood for your eating pleasure. Nothing is pre-cooked.

Fish and Chips, Burgers, local fresh seafood, prawns, oysters. Something for everyone!

Forster’s number one Pub, Sports Bar, Bistro Dining Restaurant with live music and a view of the lake from the verandah.

Enchanted garden, meets Parisian cafe, meets chic modern sophistication, that about sums up Café Toscano. With a Mediterranean-inspired menu.

The Coastal Brewing Company is an award winning family-owned microbrewery based in the coastal town of Forster Tuncurry, NSW. Being based in Forster-Tuncurry and part of the wonderful Barrington Coast,… community is playing a big role in the brewery’s strategy and operations. For The Coastal Brewing Company, it’s all about enjoying L.I.F.E – that’s local, independent, fresh, everytime.  Building on its enjoying L.I.F.E focus, all of the Coastal Brewing Company beer names link to the natural beauty of the Barrington Coast area in NSW. Using all natural ingredients on a 1,200 litre brewhouse, the brewery produces fresh, craft beer for sale in kegs to restaurants, bars, clubs and pubs. Beer is also canned onsite and sold through bottlestores, restaurants and bars.

Great Lakes Paddocks is a destination offering delicious wine, pasture raised angus beef, local produce, music events and private functions. Nestled in the stunning hinterland of the Great Lakes region… on the mid-north coast of New South Wales, we are a part of the magical natural landscape that surrounds us. Nearby are legendary coastal areas such as Forster Tuncurry, Seal Rocks and Pacific Palms.

Discover Booti Booti National Park, located on an 8km stretch of land between the Pacific Ocean and the stunning Wallis Lake, close to Forster. Embark on a day trip to explore its pristine beaches, scenic… walking trails, captivating lookouts, and lush coastal rainforest.

With a wide range of cruising options, on-board catering and a fully-licenced bar, Free Spirit Cruises are the perfect way to sit back and relax as you explore the waterways and wildlife of the Great… Lakes. Private charters and group booking are available for parties and functions of all kinds, so book your wedding or any private function with our experienced crew online today.   Check our the cruise options: https://freespiritcruises.com.au/all-activities/#cruises

This nature trail commences at the Forster Ocean Baths, locally known as the ‘Bull Ring’. The path leads from the bathroom block into the bush, to Second Head, offering two scenic ocean viewpoints. Descend… the stairs to Pebbly Beach, then follow the coastline past the popular ‘Tanks’ swimming spot, progressing to Bennetts Head, an excellent location for spotting dolphins. Continue along the Rotary Walk, reaching the sand dune of One Mile Beach. Walk along the shore until you reach Palmgrove Park, and then ascend to the secluded Burgess Beach. The complete trail spans 4km, but you can pause and resume at your convenience.

A great round of golf on the Barrington Coast! This is two courses in one with one course located in Forster and the other in Tuncurry. The Tuncurry course is ranked in the Australian Top 100 Public Access… Golf Courses. There is also a World Class Golf Museum. Visitors and new members are welcome.

One Mile Beach, situated within Forster’s residential area, is a beloved destination among both surfers and families. It is closely monitored by lifeguards on holidays and weekends, offering… a safe environment for beachgoers. Adjacent to the beach lies a spacious park featuring barbecue facilities, picnic areas, and playground equipment. At the northern tip of the beach, visitors can access Bennett’s Head lookout, providing breathtaking 360-degree views of the surroundings. This spot is also home to a colossal sandhill, perfect for exhilarating sand sliding and boarding adventures, and offers an excellent vantage point for capturing stunning photos of the beach. Additionally, there’s a picturesque stretch of white sand where dolphins are frequently spotted gracefully riding the waves in the crystal-clear water. Interestingly, the name “One Mile Beach” does not refer to the beach’s length but instead indicates its distance from the Forster post office. It’s important to note that lifeguards patrol this beach diligently, ensuring the safety of beach enthusiasts, especially during the bustling summer holiday season.

Burgess Beach, located along Burgess Road in Forster, is a serene and secluded coastal destination. While it lacks the amenities found on larger beaches, it remains a great choice for families, offering… natural shelter on three sides and numerous small rock caves to explore. It’s important to note that this beach is not patrolled for safety. Nestled between Cape Hawke and Booti Booti National Park, Burgess Beach is renowned for its rocky formations, making it a favored location for thrilling rock hopping adventures.

Pebbly Beach is just a brief walk away from Forster’s Main Beach, following the scenic Bicentennial Walk along the coastline. It’s an ideal spot for families, renowned for the captivating Tanks rock formation… that forms a charming inlet, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Despite its name, the beach boasts ample sandy shores, and it features extensive areas of smooth, ocean-polished rocks, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. This location is immensely popular among both tourists and locals for swimming. The adjacent park, situated along the Bicentennial Walk, offers amenities such as a playground, picnic shelters, barbecues, and public toilets. It’s important to note that this beach is not patrolled for safety.

The Tanks, a striking rock formation along the Bicentennial Walk, creates a picturesque rock pool perfect for enjoyable family swimming and snorkeling activities. The name “The Tanks” originates from… a group of steel ship tanks that were once situated here during the construction of the Forster breakwall in the 1890s. These tanks supplied water for the steam engine trains, which transported quarried rocks from Bennetts Head to the current breakwall location. During high tide, The Tanks are filled with water, and as the tide recedes, it unveils the sandy base. The majority of the swimming area is shielded from incoming waves by natural rock formations, providing a safe and entertaining environment for children to swim in. To reach The Tanks, it is advisable to park along Head Street and take a stroll through the nearby reserve toward the ocean. Picnic tables and public restrooms are conveniently located, as well as Pebbly Beach, which features a park and BBQ facilities. Please note that this location is not monitored by lifeguards.

Spanning from the Forster break wall to the Ocean Baths, Forster Main Beach is 563 meters of fun. This beach area is shielded from large waves, making it safe for swimming and ideal for families. Lifeguards… are on duty during the swimming season. Its proximity to cafes and shops allows beachgoers to easily take a break from the sand and enjoy refreshments on a hot summer day. Forster Surf Club is situated here, with the picturesque surroundings of Pilot Hill and Second Head, both offering scenic walking trails. During the summer months, Main Beach is patrolled by lifeguards on weekends, and in October and during school holidays, it is patrolled every day. Forster Ocean Baths, a short walk away, provide a protected swimming area and accessible ramps for visitors.

Forster Ocean Baths is located on North Street, next to Forster Main Beach. It’s a popular swimming spot, particularly for the littlies and young families. The large pool has an infinity edge, making it… feel like you’re floating in the ocean, without any of the waves. The Forster Ocean Baths, commonly known as The Bull Ring, was officially inaugurated on January 18, 1936. Remarkably, the pool’s physical structure has remained largely unchanged since its opening. The pool spans 56 meters along the northern wall, 50 meters along the eastern wall, and 69 meters along the western wall. During high tide, seawater flows into the pool through an inlet valve positioned on the eastern side of the wall, aided by gravity. This water, along with debris, travels through a pipe to a sediment well where sand, rocks, seaweed, and shells settle at the bottom. From there, the water is pumped into the swimming pool.

With a wide range of cruising options, on-board catering and a fully-licenced bar, Free Spirit Cruises are the perfect way to sit back and relax as you explore the waterways and wildlife of the Great… Lakes. Private charters and group booking are available for parties and functions of all kinds, so book your wedding or any private function with our experienced crew online today.   Check our the cruise options: https://freespiritcruises.com.au/all-activities/#cruises

GlideTime offers e-foiling near Forster, Pacific Palms and Seal Rocks. Imagine gliding over the water on the world’s best electric hydrofoil board! W-foiling boards are silent, wake-free, and with zero… emissions, so you can experience the Barrington Coast’s pristine waters in an eco-friendly way. ​GlideTime e-foiling experiences are fun and easy to learn. Try 90 minute fun rides, learn-to-foil multi lessons, or bring a group of 4 for an e-foiling Glide Party. Weekdays : by appointment 7am till sunset Saturday: morning session from 8am, afternoon session  from 1:30pm Sunday: morning session from 8am, afternoon session  from 1:30pm Call Mic Evans our Head Coach to check session availability and book: 0408 625 816

Not just the place to launch your boat into the water, but also the spot to see huge groups of pelicans congregate hoping for some fish offcuts. These birds are iconic in Forster and are super friendly.… Definitely come at sunset for some great pics.

Forster Marina is one of the last boat sheds from Main St Forster. The marina is home to long-term large boats and a range of powered and unpowered watercraft for hire.