Forster may be best known as a summer escape, but there’s a strong case for visiting this coastal town once spring rolls around. Set between the Pacific Ocean and sprawling Wallis Lake, the Mid North Coast favourite is surrounded by crystal-clear water, sandy beaches and national park, with plenty to do as the weather warms up and before the summer crowds head out. Spend your days walking along the coast, paddling across the lake or exploring secluded beaches before heading into town for waterfront dining and shopping. But one of the biggest reasons to visit in spring is happening just offshore. Whale migration continues until November, with humpbacks travelling along the coastline and opportunities to spot them from scenic lookouts or out on the water. Here are some of the best things to do in Forster this spring.
Things to do in Forster this spring
Forster’s location between lake, ocean and national park means much of its appeal lies outdoors, and spring is a great time to get out and get exploring. Whale watching is one of the season’s biggest highlights. Join a dedicated whale-watching cruise for a closer look, or stay on land and head to Bennett’s Head for sweeping ocean views. Another excellent vantage point is Cape Hawke Lookout, reached via a short uphill walk through coastal forest.
The nearby Booti Booti national park is at its prettiest this time of year, with colourful wildflowers blooming across its coastal heathlands. Keen walkers can tackle the 8km Booti walking track, a moderately challenging loop through rainforest, turquoise waters and coastal scenery, with elevated views across the surrounding landscape.
Closer to town, the Bicentennial Walk is an easy way to take in several of Forster’s coastal highlights in one go. The 4km route links beaches, rocky headlands and ocean viewpoints, passing Pebbly Beach before continuing towards One Mile Beach. Keep an eye on the horizon as you walk — you may spot whales or dolphins without leaving the shore. Wallis Lake is another excellent spot for water lovers with options for kayaking, paddleboarding and boating. For a swim, Main Beach and its ocean baths are conveniently close to the centre of town, while little Burgess Beach offers rock pools and a more secluded setting.
Where to eat and drink
Foodies will find plenty to enjoy around town. Start the morning at Beach Bums Cafe, perched directly opposite Main Beach and serving breakfast favourites alongside coffee, or stop by Palm Artisan Bakery for pastries, doughnuts and other freshly baked treats. For something a little more tucked away, Cafe Toscano brings a touch of Tuscany to town with its leafy courtyard and Italian-inspired setting.
Forster is particularly good for seafood, thanks in part to the oysters grown locally in Wallis Lake. Thirty Three Degrees specialises in Sydney Rock Oysters and fresh seafood, while Waterline Boathouse is a local lakeside gem. Meanwhile, Spice Monkey serves Japanese-influenced Asian dishes, and Si Señorita is the spot for Mexican food and cocktails. You can also try locally made gin at Wharf St. Distillery, which uses native botanicals and even oyster shells in some of its spirits.
Where to shop
Save some time for browsing the shops around town too. Independent boutiques include Indigo Attic and Heidi Beau for fashion, while Coasting Home is worth a look for coastal-inspired homewares and gifts.
If your trip falls over a weekend, you can also catch one of the area’s regular markets. The Forster Town Park Market are traditionally held on the second Sunday of the month, with stalls spanning handmade goods, art and street food, while the Forster Farmers Market runs on the third Saturday with local produce, flowers and artisan goods. Across the bridge, the Tuncurry Markets take place on the fourth Saturday of the month, with everything from clothing and crafts to fresh produce.
Getting there
Forster is just over a 3.5-hour drive north of Sydney via the M1 and Pacific Highway. From Newcastle Airport, the drive takes around one hour and 45 minutes. If you’re travelling without a car, trains and coaches run from Sydney via Newcastle to Taree, where you can connect to Forster by local bus. Plan your travels on Transport for NSW.
