Forster Beach
Worimi Country
The gem of the Barrington coast
From sunrise swims to lazy arvo strolls, every moment at Forster Beach comes with its own little holiday playlist. The soundtrack here? Kids squealing by the sand, seagulls circling the sky, and laughter with your loved ones at day's end. Forster’s beauty lies in its balance — it's a town buzzing with cafes, bars, and surf culture, with sparkling water on both sides. You’ll feel it the moment you arrive: salt on your skin, sand in your shoes, and that holiday glow that lingers long after you’ve left.
Forster Beach feels
Where is Forster Beach?
Forster is tucked along the Barrington Coast, about 3.5 hours north of Sydney and a stone’s throw from its twin town, Tuncurry. If you’re not driving, you can hop on a bus from Newcastle that takes you straight to Forster. You could also fly into Taree or Newcastle airport and make the quick drive across.
Top things to do in Forster Beach
From beach days to picnics with a view, Forster is the ultimate coastal all-rounder. Swim, surf or snorkel at Forster Main Beach, kayak the pristine waters of Wallis Lake, or try your luck with a fishing rod. The Barrington Coast is oyster country, so a tasting session is a must! Families love the ocean baths for safe swimming, while adventure-seekers can set off for nearby Booti Booti National Park for bushwalks and photo-worthy views.
The Great Lakes Art Society is a registered charity operating from a purpose-built gallery facility in Lake Street Forster. The society provides regular art classes and art exhibitions for amateur artists in the local community.
The Forster Gallery has been holding exhibitions of the highest possible standard for public viewing and sale for 32 years in Forster-Tuncurry.
Set in beautiful Forster NSW, they are a cafe passionate about local produce and superior coffee.
Located on Wharf Street right near the bridge, come check them out!
Forster Main Beach stretches 563 metres from the Forster break wall to the ocean baths. The beach position is protected from large swells and is patrolled during the swimming season, making it ideal for families. It's close to cafes and shops for a quick dash off the sand for refreshments on a hot summer's day.
Forster Surf Club is located here, and it is framed by Pilot Hill and Second Head, both of which offer nice walking trails.
Main Beach is patrolled on weekends during the summer months and every day during October and summer school holidays.
Forster Ocean Baths are a short stroll from this beach offering a protected swimming area and accessible ramps.
Seven Mile Beach is a long stretch of remote beach so even in the height of summer you are guaranteed a quiet patch of sand. It is part of Booti Booti National Park.
The beach stretches south from Cape Hawke and Janies Corner at Forster down to Tiona and The Ruins Campground at Pacific Palms.
At the northern tip of Seven Mile Beach, you'll find a rough dirt track that takes you out to secluded Janies Corner, a good spot for fishing and surfing. At the southern end of Seven Mile Beach you'll also find Bulls Paddock, a right-hand point break which on a good day will bring a lot of surfers just to catch it.
This beach is not patrolled.
The Forster Tuncurry Golf Club incorporates the Forster Golf Course and the Tuncurry Golf Course.
Tuncurry Golf Course is a hidden gem on the Mid-North Coast, very few players leave this course untouched by its natural beauty. The par 72 championship layout is sure to test golfers of all skill levels. Demanding from the tee the rolling couch fairways and relatively flat putting surfaces reward the player who drives the ball well from the tee.
Forster Tuncurry Golf Club is one of the friendliest seaside courses on the north coast, The Forster course attracts a large number of social golfers year round. At 4868 metres, Par 66 for the men and Par 68 for the ladies it’s generous fairways and forgiving rough are major factors in attracting golfers out for an enjoyable experience.
Forster Fishing Charters are available for either the ocean or lake. Try snorkelling with all equipment being supplied or just come out and do a dolphin and whale watch cruise.
If you are a beginner, Robbie and his crew will assist you in everything from baiting your line to actually taking your catch off the hook. Rods, reels, bait and tackle are all supplied. Their large comfortable centre seat is actually a big esky which will keep your food and drinks cool all day.
At the end of the day, your fish will be cleaned – that is gutted, filleted, scaled and packed for you to take home. A free pick-up and delivery service is available if required within the Forster/Tuncurry area and to make your whole trip more comfortable, there is a toilet on board.
Weather in Forster Beach
Forster’s the kind of place where the sun likes to show off, with warm summers averaging 27°C and balmy ocean temps that beg for swims, SUP sessions and long beach days. Even in Winter, highs sit at an average of 18°C — perfect for rugging up and spotting whales off the coast. Rain sprinkles year-round, keeping everything lush and green. For the hottest days, plan your trip from late November to early April. Just don't forget to slip, slop, slap!
Itinerary Ideas for Forster Beach
Start the day with a dip in the famous Forster ocean baths before grabbing a barista-made coffee right across the road. Stroll the breakwall for dolphin spotting, or hire a SUP and explore Wallis Lake’s clear waters. In the afternoon, wander over to One Mile Beach in Forster for a surf or picnic, then head back into town for fresh Sydney rock oysters straight from the farm. Wondering what to do at sunset? That’s best spent with sandy toes and fish and chips on Main Beach. Yum!
Forster Beach Events and Attractions
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Frequently asked questions
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What is the main beach in Forster?
Aptly called Forster Main Beach, this calm swimming spot is around half a kilometre long and right by Forster’s cafes, restaurants and shops. It’s patrolled from October to April (by lifeguards in the busy school holiday period and volunteer surf life savers on weekends and public holidays).
What facilities are at Forster Beach?
You’ll find a range of amenities available at Forster Main Beach, like BBQs, picnic tables, showers, drinking water, a kiosk, and change rooms. It’s also where you can take a dip in the famous ocean baths!
How do I get to the Forster Ocean Baths?
From Reflections Forster Beach, head down Oyster Parade, take a left on Beach street and follow it around onto North street. The entrance to the ocean baths (known amongst locals as the ‘bull ring’) is right by the start of the Bicentennial Walk.
What is the Bicentennial Walk?
The Forster Bicentennial Walk is a beautiful nature walk from the ocean baths all the way along the coast to the hidden Burgess Beach. In this 4km walk, you’ll pass other amazing sights, such as The Tanks, Second Head Reserve, Pebbly Beach, Bennetts Head Lookout, and One Mile Beach.
Can you swim at One Mile Beach?
Yes, you can swim at One Mile Beach. In fact, it’s a popular choice for holidaymakers and locals alike for its calm waters and stretch of golden sand. There’s shallow areas for the little ones to play, plus it’s patrolled on weekends and school holidays. Want to bring your pup along? Only from 5am to 9am, then again from 5pm to 8pm daily.
Ways to stay in Forster Beach
Reflections Forster Beach has a range of accommodation options to match your holiday style. Pitch a tent or park the caravan at our campsites, or settle into a modern cabin with all the home comforts right by the sand. Wherever you decide, everything that makes Forster so special is just a stroll (or paddle) away!
