Things To Do
in Forster

Forster, Australia is a picturesque coastal town located on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales. Renowned for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life, it offers visitors a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The area is surrounded by national parks and lush hinterlands, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.

With a friendly atmosphere and a variety of attractions, Forster is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Forster's Coast
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Forster Main Beach, where you can enjoy a swim or a leisurely walk along the shore. Afterward, grab breakfast at a nearby café, such as the Beach Bums Café.

afternoon
:

Head to the Forster Marina for some dolphin watching or rent a kayak to explore the pristine waters. Enjoy a picnic lunch at One Mile Beach.

evening
:

Dine at the popular restaurant, The Sicilian, known for its delicious Italian cuisine and beautiful waterfront views. Finish your day with a stroll along the scenic Forster Tuncurry Bridge.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a hike in the Booti Booti National Park, taking in the stunning coastal views. Stop for breakfast at the Pacific Tce Café afterwards.

afternoon
:

Visit the Forster Arts and Crafts Centre to appreciate local artworks and perhaps find a unique souvenir. Enjoy lunch at a local seafood market, sampling fresh catches of the day.

evening
:

Experience the local nightlife at The Greenroom, a popular bar with live music. End the night at a beachside takeaway for some fish and chips.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20-$40
Coffee$4-$5
🍕Takeaway Pizza$15-$25
🚉Public Transport Ticket$3-$5
🏨Hotel Night$100-$200

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and beautiful beaches.
  • Family-friendly activities and attractions.
  • Laid-back atmosphere with a vibrant local community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Can be crowded during peak holiday seasons.

Places to Visit in Forster

Visit one of these nice places.

Cape Hawke Lookout

Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline and is a great spot for landscape photography.

Forster Main Beach

A picturesque beach ideal for capturing stunning sunsets and the vibrant beach life.

Tuncurry Rock Pool

A beautiful location for family and nature photos, surrounded by rock formations and clear waters.

Culinary Guide

Food in Forster

Forster offers a delectable culinary scene that highlights its coastal location, featuring fresh seafood and local produce. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual beachside eateries to upscale restaurants.

Forster Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fish and Chips

A classic Australian dish featuring fresh local fish, battered and fried to perfection, served with crispy chips.

Must-Try!

Prawns

Locally sourced prawns, often grilled or served in a garlic butter sauce, are a must-try for seafood lovers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Forster Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, artisan goods, and delicious street food options from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Forster experiences a temperate climate, with warm summers averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F) and mild winters averaging 10-17°C (50-63°F). Rainfall is fairly spread throughout the year, with the wettest months being February and March. Autumn and spring offer pleasant temperatures and lower humidity, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Visitors are expected to respect local wildlife and natural environments, including not littering and following park guidelines.

Casual Dress

Forster has a laid-back vibe, so casual dress is the norm. Beachwear is acceptable at many casual dining spots.

Friendly Greetings

A simple 'hello' or nod to passersby is common and appreciated in the friendly local culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Forster is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. Visitors should still take standard precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings, securing belongings, and following safety guidelines when swimming or engaging in water sports.

Tipping in Forster

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in Australia, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and many places also offer contactless payment options.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, perfect for beach activities and water sports. Crowds can be larger during holiday periods.

Autumn

A mild climate with fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for hiking and outdoor activities. The colors of the leaves also provide beautiful scenery.

Winter

Cooler temperatures prevail, but it's still pleasant for coastal walks and exploration. Whale watching begins during this season.

Spring

Mild weather returns, flowers bloom, and wildlife is active, making it a wonderful time for outdoor exploration and photography.

Nightlife Guide

Forster at Night

Forster's nightlife is relaxed yet vibrant, with a variety of bars and live music venues. Popular spots include The Greenroom and The Reef Hotel, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy live performances, craft beers, and cocktails. The atmosphere is typically friendly, making it easy to mingle with locals and other travelers.

Hiking in Forster

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Booti Booti National Park Trail

This scenic trail takes you through diverse ecosystems and offers stunning views of the coastline and lush forests.

Green Point Trail

A shorter, accessible walking track that provides beautiful views of Wallis Lake and the surrounding area, ideal for families and casual hikers.

Airports

How to reach Forster by plane.

Taree Airport

Located about 30 minutes from Forster, Taree Airport offers domestic flights and is the closest airport for travelers heading to Forster.

Getting Around

Walkability

Forster is a very walkable town, with key attractions, beaches, and dining options within easy walking distance. The flat terrain and well-maintained pathways make it accessible for pedestrians, providing a pleasant experience for those who enjoy exploring on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Forster attracts many families, particularly during school holidays, due to its safe environment and family-friendly attractions.

Retirees

The area is popular among retirees seeking a peaceful coastal lifestyle, contributing to the town's relaxed vibe.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Surfing

With its great beaches and waves, surfing is a popular sport in Forster, attracting both beginners and experienced surfers.

Fishing

Fishing is a beloved pastime in Forster, with many locals and visitors enjoying both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Forster is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect Forster with nearby towns, but schedules may vary, especially on weekends.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Forster.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many restaurants in Forster offer gluten-free options, but it's advisable to inform the staff of any dietary restrictions when ordering.

Vegetarian/Vegan

Most eateries provide vegetarian and vegan dishes, but checking menus online beforehand can help ensure a suitable choice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Forster is available through local clinics and the Forster Private Hospital. Emergency services are also accessible, and visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Australia

Read more in our Australia 2025 Travel Guide.

Australia Travel Guide