Welcome to Forster, a coastal delight on the Mid North Coast of New South Wales, just a four hour drive from Sydney. Home to majestic lakes, white sandy beaches, breathtaking National Parks and a wide range of local attractions, Forster is the perfect destination for those seeking a bit of reprieve from the hustle and bustle. A visit to this timeless coastal destination will be sure to leave you rejuvenated and recharged as you soak up the ambience and laid-back coastal atmosphere of the region. So what are you waiting for? If you’re ready to discover the endless beauty and charm of the Mid North Coast, continue reading as we explore all the best that Forster and beyond has to offer with Hertz.
The Jewel of the Great Lakes
As soon as you arrive in Forster, you’ll immediately feel a sense of relaxation wash over you as you take in the sparkling turquoise waters. Before hitting the beach, you’ll want to pick up your Hertz rental car from Forster Downtown, conveniently located just minutes away from the centre. Once you’ve secured your drive, make Forster Beach your first port of call. This summer holiday staple is not only the closest beach to town, it is also an all-round excellent beach, one of the best on the coast. You’ll find clear and calm waters in this protected north-facing cove, as well as a large ocean bath and over 500 metres of golden sand to spread out on. The beach is framed by the Forster Breakwall and Pilot Hill lookout, both which offer pleasant bushwalking trails to explore. If you’re feeling peckish, pop into Beach Bums cafe. Located right on the beach, this is the absolute best spot in town to enjoy a delicious brunch and coffee with stunning views to match.
Forster is a town that is every bit as famous for its great lakes as it is for its beautiful beaches. Wrapping around the southern edge of town is Wallis Lake, a remarkable natural wonder that is home to pristine clear water, abundant marine wildlife, birdlife and untouched bush surroundings. The lake is also home to some of the freshest seafood supply in the country, with local Sydney Rock Oysters being the finest specialty. While you’re here, indulge in oyster tasting from Graham Barclay Oysters. Direct and fresh from the farm, these will be the freshest oysters you will ever taste.
The Forster waterfront is dotted with quaint little boatsheds, where you can hire a stand-up paddleboard, kayak, or even a boat to explore the extensive lake system at your own pace. If you’d prefer something a bit more leisurely and luxurious, explore the lake in style on a discovery cruise by Free Spirit Cruises. To see the lake at its very best, our pick would be the highly popular sunset dinner cruise, not to be missed. On this enchanting two-hour cruise, you’ll experience dolphin and turtle encounters, breathtaking sunset views, a delicious three-course dinner menu and licensed cocktail bar - it really doesn’t get much better than this. If you are driving anywhere after the cruise, ensure you have a designated driver nominated.
Exploring the Coast Road
Forster town centre is your delightfully typical coastal holiday hotspot - a buzzing hive of activity and excitement. If you’re looking to get away from it all and immerse yourself in the beauty of the region’s natural wonders, you’ll find all that and more beyond the town’s borders. An ideal base for adventures in the greater Mid North Coast, there is no better way to experience it first-hand than by heading out in your Hertz rental car. Before you head off, grab a quick coffee and bite to eat at Cafe Brassbell before packing up to hit the road.
If you’re here for the beaches but looking for somewhere a little more quiet and secluded, the eastern beaches should tick the box. Located just a short drive from town, Booti Booti National Park will have you feeling a world away.Stretching eight kilometres from Forster in the north to Elizabeth Beach in the south, this lush coastal national park is home to remote sandy beaches, coastal bushwalking, dramatic headlands and stunning vistas.
Along the eastern foreshore of this narrow peninsula is where you’ll find Forster’s lesser-visited beaches and local favourites, including Burgess Beach, McBrides Beach, Seven Mile Beach and Elizabeth Beach. To soak up those panoramic coastal views, Cape Hawke Lookout is the highest point in the park, easily accessible in your Hertz rental car. The observation tower is set deep amongst the lush forest and extends above the canopy of the highest treetops for uninterrupted 360 views of the ocean, lakes and Forster beyond. If you’re lucky enough to be visiting during the winter months, you may even catch a glimpse of migrating whales.
Whether you’ve come to Forster for its majestic lakes, golden stretches of sand, whale watching or to discover an oyster-lover’s paradise, you can be sure to enjoy plenty of rich experiences and create life-long memories in the captivating Mid North Coast region.
