Best Beaches in Forster NSW – A Local’s Guide to Coastal Paradise
- Deb Carr
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Forster is one of those places that somehow still feels like a secret. Tucked away on the sparkling Mid North Coast of New South Wales, it’s where aqua water meets golden sand, and time slows down just enough to let you breathe it all in. If you’re planning a coastal getaway and searching for the best beaches in Forster NSW, you’re in for a treat.
As someone who has spent years wandering this coastline, I can tell you that Forster isn’t just about sunbathing — it’s about connection. With nature. With stillness. And with a part of yourself that gets lost in the city. Let’s dive into five standout beaches in Forster that locals adore (and visitors remember).
1. Main Beach Forster – Best for First-Time Visitors
Right at the heart of town, Main Beach is exactly what it sounds like — central, convenient, and wonderfully accessible. It’s patrolled during summer months, has ocean baths perfect for less confident swimmers, and there are plenty of cafes just a few footsteps away.
This is a fantastic place to start if you’ve never been to Forster. Whether you want a morning coffee and a gentle swim or just a stroll along the breakwall, Main Beach is easygoing and always welcoming.
Local tip: Grab a takeaway coffee from Beach Bums Café and watch the surfers do their thing from the shoreline.
2. One Mile Beach – Best for Surfing and Scenic Views
If you drive just a few minutes south, you’ll reach One Mile Beach — a wide, windswept stretch of coast that’s a hit with surfers and families alike. The swell here makes it ideal for boogie boards and beginner surf lessons, and it’s usually less crowded than Main Beach.
What makes One Mile special (aside from the perfect surf) is the giant sand dune at the northern end. Locals love climbing it at sunset or using it as a natural sandboarding slope.
Local tip: The lookout from Cape Hawke nearby offers a panoramic view of One Mile and beyond — don’t miss it on a clear day.
3. Burgess Beach – A Hidden Paradise Loved by Locals
Ask any Forster local where they go to escape, and chances are you’ll hear about Burgess Beach. Tucked between rocky headlands and largely unpatrolled, this beach feels like a secret. The water glows that signature Mid North Coast turquoise on sunny days, and the small swimming holes between the rocks are known as the “Washing Machine.”
It’s not recommended for inexperienced swimmers or rough conditions, but on a calm day, it’s heaven.
Local tip: Follow the trail up to the lookout for stunning photos. You might even spot dolphins playing just offshore.
4. Pebbly Beach – For Coastal Walks and Rock Pool Wanders
Pebbly Beach is the starting point for Forster’s Bicentennial Walk — a scenic coastal trail that leads to Bennetts Head and on toward One Mile Beach. This beach isn’t for lounging or surfing, but it’s a fantastic stop for nature lovers and photographers.
The rock pools come alive at low tide, and the crashing waves make for dramatic seascapes.
Local tip: Bring sturdy shoes and explore the full walk if you can — it’s one of the most underrated things to do in Forster.
5. Seven Mile Beach – Wild and Windswept Serenity
Looking for peace and quiet? Seven Mile Beach, just south of Forster near Booti Booti National Park, is a long, untamed stretch where you can walk for what feels like hours without seeing another soul. It’s more about solitude and connection with nature than swimming, but it’s incredibly grounding.
Local tip: Pack water, wear a hat, and walk early in the morning or late afternoon — the light here is beautiful.
Bonus: Family & Dog-Friendly Tips
Dog-friendly beaches: While most Forster beaches have restrictions, One Mile Beach has off-leash zones depending on the time of day. Always check signs and local guidelines.
Family-friendly: Main Beach and the ocean baths are perfect for kids, while Burgess and Seven Mile require more caution.
Facilities: Main and One Mile beaches have parking, toilets, and picnic tables. Pebbly and Burgess are more rustic.
Where to Stay Near Forster’s Beaches
If you're making a weekend (or week) of it, Forster has plenty of accommodation close to the coastline. From motels and beach houses to holiday parks, accommodation is plentiful in Forster.
Other Things to Do in Forster
While the beaches steal the show, Forster has plenty more to offer.
