Noosa gets a lot of attention — thanks to the turquoise curves of Main Beach and Laguna Bay, the trendy boutiques of Hastings Street, and the year-round vacation vibe. But it’s far from the only place with clear blue waters, quality cafes and that relaxed coastal feel. You can have all the fun of the iconic coastal darling, but for a fraction of the cost, not too far from Sydney. Enter Forster — perched on a narrow spit between the glittering turquoise expanse of Wallis Lake and the Pacific Ocean, the famous coastal town offers that same sun-drenched charm with gorgeous beaches and lakes, natural beauty, coffee by the water, and natural wonders all effortlessly stitched together. Ready to plan your trip? Here’s how to make the most of a summer trip to Forster.
Things to do in Forster in summer
The best way to experience the town is by the water, specifically on the sprawling, Caribbean-blue expanse of Wallis Lake. Spanning nearly 100 square kilometres, it is twice the size of Sydney Harbour but minus the influx of tourists so you’ll find plenty of space to fish, swim, kayak, snorkel and more. If you’re keen to spend your day by the water, hire a small boat from the marina and chart your own course across the glassy surface, or try stand-up paddleboarding in the calmer inlets.
If you prefer to stay on the sand, Main Beach is the perfect starting point. Patrolled in the warmer months, with a magnificent ocean pool for calmer swims, the beach is conveniently located within minutes of the main CBD. Meanwhile, the popular One Mile Beach is a local favourite for a reason, with powder white sands, picturesque dunes, and azure waters, and if you want to escape the crowds consider the relatively small and secluded Burgess Beach, with dramatic rock formations, sea caves and perfectly carved rock pools.
Link your beachy adventures together via the Bicentennial Walk, an extended 4km boardwalk trail which traces the coastline past headlands, lookout points, lagoons and beaches. Keep an eye out for dolphins along the trail, or make your way to Bennett’s Head, an easily accessible vantage point with Pacific views galore.
If you’re keen for more outdoorsy adventures, Booti Booti National Park sits just south of town and is packed with walking trails that wind past coastal forest and quiet golden beaches. The Cape Hawke track is a standout in summer with sweeping views over the coastline, Wallis Lake and Seven Mile Beach. Spend some time camping by the beach, walking along the refreshing rainforest and whale watching in season.
Other ways to enjoy the town
Once you’ve had your fill of salt and sun, head out to explore the town along its charming main street. Forster offers a cool lifestyle hub with waterfront restaurants, breezy cafes, stylish shops, and relaxed drinking spots.
Start your day at Nineteen 59 for excellent coffee paired with ocean views, then head to Beach Bums Cafes overlooking Forster’s Main Beach and settle in for a classic breakfast of smashed avo and berry bowls. Palm Artisan Bakery is the place to go for baked treats, delicious pastries and doughnuts while, Tartt Cafe, located along the main strip is another stellar spot for coffee, brekky rolls and burgers. Instagram aficionados will want to keep Cafe Toscano on their radar, a Tuscany-inspired spot with delicious food and gorgeous leafy decor.
Other local favourite eateries around town include Waterline Boathouse Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar for waterfront dining and fresh seafood, Spice Monkey for Asian fusion food and pristine views of Wallis Lake, Thirty Three Degrees, a light-filled oyster bar & restaurant, Si Señorita for delicious cocktails and authentic Mexican food with quality produce. Don’t forget to visit Wharf St. Distillery for award-winning gins and hearty pub bites.
If you love a market wander, you’ll be spoilt for choice here. The Forster Town Park Markets, held on the second Sunday of each month, offer homewares, artworks, handmade jewellery, and ready-to-eat street food right by the water. Meanwhile, the Forster Farmers Market runs on the third Saturday of the month with a focus on fresh produce, flowers, seasonal fruit and artisanal breads. On the fourth Saturday, the Tuncurry Markets feature crafts, clothing, veggies and more with a lovely waterside atmosphere to boot.
While it’s more low-key than the famous Hastings Street, Forster still has a solid boutique scene. Wander along the main street and pop into independent fashion stores, surf shops and small homewares boutiques, like Indigo Attic, Sampson & Delilah and Heidi Beau then browse the coastal homewares at Coasting Home and Circle of Friends. Read more about Forster and find accommodation options here.
Getting there
Located on the Mid-North Coast of NSW, Forster is around a 3.5 to 4 hour drive from Sydney via the M1 and Pacific Highway, making it the perfect summer weekend road trip. If you’re short on time, the town is just under a 2-hour drive from Newcastle Airport. For those travelling by public transport, you can catch a train from Sydney via Newcastle to Taree and then connect to Forster by local bus or taxi. Check current schedules and any service changes with Transport for NSW before setting off.