Forster: Coast, Wallis Lake and local experiences

Forster offers several ways to shape a stay around the water, coastal walks and local tastings. You can hire a boat on Wallis Lake, while coastal walking destinations include Pebbly Beach and Bennetts Head. There is also a rock pool for swimming and snorkelling, as well as two tasting rooms with different focuses. The options range from activities on the water to tastings and insights into local drink production. If you’re looking for a hotel in Forster, this variety can help you prioritise the interests you want to shape your stay.

Wallis Lake and boat hire

There are numerous ways to reach Wallis Lake from Forster. Visitors can also hire a boat on the lake. This means the options on the water range from access to the lake to hiring a boat; which one you choose depends on your plans. Boat hire availability may vary. If hiring a boat is important to your trip, check with the provider in advance.

Coastal walk, beach and lookout

The Bicentennial Walk begins at the Forster Ocean Baths. From Forster Main Beach, a short walk along the path takes you to Pebbly Beach. The Bicentennial Walk also leads to Bennetts Head, a lookout for dolphin watching. The Forster Ocean Baths are next to Forster Main Beach; the beach is patrolled seasonally. Forster Main Beach stretches 563 metres from the Forster breakwall to the Ocean Baths.

The Tanks and the Forster Ocean Baths

The Tanks is a rock formation on the Bicentennial Walk that forms a rock pool for swimming and snorkelling. Its name comes from steel tanks from ships that were used at this site during construction of the Forster breakwall in the 1890s. The recommended access is via Head Street: park there and walk through the reserve towards the sea. As parking conditions may vary, check them in advance.

The Forster Ocean Baths, also known as The Bull Ring, were officially opened on 18 January 1936.

Tastings in Forster

Coastal Brewing Company offers brewery tours and a beer tasting at its tasting room in Forster. Tasting room availability may change; check in advance whether it will be open on your chosen date. Wharf St. Distillery produces small-batch gin using local botanicals and oyster shells, and offers it in a tasting room on the main street. Check current visitor arrangements there before visiting. The offerings have different focuses: Coastal Brewing Company includes a brewery tour and beer tasting, while Wharf St. Distillery focuses on gin and its ingredients.

Explore more destinations: Blueys Beach, Bulahdelah, Charlotte Bay, Elizabeth Beach, Tea Gardens, Boolambayte

Return to the regional travel overview: Great Lakes Council.