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Tip to Tail Trail — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Tip to Tail Trail

Go mountain biking or horseriding on Tip to Tail trail and discover Wallingat National Park on an extended ride through the park. This easy trail takes you on a beautiful journey along the network of public roads and management trails throughout the park. Ride across undulating topography, through a diverse range of forest types and enjoy scenic views along the way as you look over steep gullies and across to distant ridges. You’ll also pass some of Wallingat’s most-visited attractions. The views from Whoota Whoota lookout are breathtaking so taking a moment to stop here is a must. Look over vast stretches of eucalypt forest in one direction or gaze across the impressive expanse of Wallis Lake and the rugged coastline in the other direction. Why not pack a picnic and enjoy a moments rest from the lookout or stop further down the trail at Sugar Creek picnic area for a break.

Coomba Bay NSW

2.4 km away

Whoota Whoota lookout

Natural Attractions

Whoota Whoota lookout

This is not only the best viewpoint in Wallingat National Park, but also one of the greatest in NSW. Drive right up to Whoota Whoota lookout and prepare to be amazed. Peer out one way and you can see the vast stretches of eucalypt forest that make up much of the park. Look in the other direction and you can see the expanse of Wallis Lake as well as the winding, rugged coastline. If you’re lucky, you might also see the sea eagles that like to soar here. Don’t forget your camera, because this is one view you won’t want to miss. There’s also a picnic table here if you want to dine with the best natural view of the NSW mid-North Coast as your backdrop.

Wallingat NSW

4.4 km away

Wallingat National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Wallingat National Park

Here, on the Mid North Coast of NSW, the Pacific Ocean meets forest. At Whoota Whoota lookout, one of Wallingat National Park's most visited attractions, you'll be overwhelmed by the beauty. Explore the park further and you'll see stands of straight, tall flooded gums. At Sugar Creek, there are also stands of cabbage palms, filled with the sounds of Wallingat's native birdlife. Pack the car and explore what this great park has to offer for a few hours. There's camping at Wallingat River, and a picnic area at Sugar Creek. A network of unsealed roads throughout the park allows you to discover its best features. Accessible by 2WD in dry weather, you can also explore them by mountain bike or horseback. There's great fishing in the river and lake, and you can swim when the weather is warm. Keep your eyes peeled for kangaroos and wallabies, as well as some of the 200 species of birds that make Wallingat their home.

Wallingat NSW

5.8 km away

Sailing Club picnic area

Natural Attractions

Sailing Club picnic area

Booti Booti National Park offers numerous places to relax in front of the ocean. Sailing Club picnic area faces away from the ocean, sitting on the shore of scenic Wallis Lake instead. The lakeside beach is just as sandy, the water just as refreshing, but safe shallow swimming and shady paperbark trees make this a terrific alternative for families and holiday-makers alike. Find an ideal picnic spot and settle down with binoculars for a bit of birdwatching: osprey and sea eagles are often in the area. Break out the swimmers, or bring your kayak for a leisurely afternoon paddle among the sail boats. Sailing Club picnic area can get busy in summer, but nearby picnic alternatives like Santa Barbara and Elizabeth Beach mean there’s enough room for everyone.

Forster NSW

6.6 km away

Santa Barbara picnic area

Natural Attractions

Santa Barbara picnic area

This picnic area has everything you need for a great day at the beach: toilet facilities, free barbecues, and an easy drive to the towns of Forster and Pacific Palms. Relax on the grass in the sunshine while your barbecue lunch sizzles away, or cool off with a dip in the ocean. Seven Mile Beach is a favourite among surfers and offers incredible views of the whale migration between May and November. Santa Barbara picnic area is surrounded by coastal heathland which blooms with pretty wildflowers in spring. It can get busy over summer so if you need an alternative, visit Sailing Club picnic area nearby. It offers a shady rest spot on the shores of Wallis Lake, where you can enjoy kayaking or let the kids splash in the shallow waters. If you want to explore the green stretch of bushland between the beach and the lake, set out on the Booti Hill and Wallis Lake walking track. It loops past the shores of Wallis Lake, through lush rainforest and twisted eucalypts. The Ruins campground is nearby, so you can make a weekend of it with tent, car-based or caravan camping.

Forster NSW

7.0 km away

Double Wharf Trail — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Double Wharf Trail

Wallingat National Park, near Forster, features stunning waterways and mountainous forests, and the best way to see them is by following the meandering Double Wharf trail either on foot or by mountain bike. The relatively flat trail heads north along the eastern side of Boggy Creek and Wallingat River, through a water crossing at Sugar Creek, and onto the scenic Reedy Creek trail. Along the way, you’ll pass through swampy casuarina forests and tall paperbarks, with dry eucalypt forest on the higher ridges. Bring some binoculars for birdwatching – egrets and cormorants frolic on Wallingat River, while yellow-tail black cockatoos are attracted by the fruiting casuarinas. There’s also a chance you’ll spot echidnas and wallabies foraging in the undergrowth. This is a great route to explore at any time of year. Bring plenty of water and a packed lunch for a quiet picnic along the way. And, if you’re up for a loop walk or mountain bike ride after lunch, you can extend your route to include Whoota Lookout Road and Sugar Creek Road.

Wallingat NSW

7.2 km away

Double Wharf to Whoota Lookout Cycle Loop — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Double Wharf to Whoota Lookout Cycle Loop

Cycling through the bush is one of life’s simple pleasures, and this scenic ride is bound to provide hours of enjoyment. Double Wharf to Whoota lookout cycle loop winds through a range of forest in Wallingat National Park near Forster. It’s perfect for adventurous mountain bikers or walkers who relish a heart pumping challenge with their scenic views. Following Double Wharf track to Reedy Creek trail, you’ll cycle past casuarinas, paperbarks and cabbage tree palms teeming with wildlife. Inhale the fragrant fresh air and listen for the eery call of the catbird. You might see wonga pigeons, king parrots and wallabies. As the cycling route ascends steeply the swamp forest gives way to eucalypts on the drier ridge. Reaching the lookout, enjoy the sublime 360-degree views as you catch your breath. Return the same way or for an extra challenge follow Sugar Creek Road west to the start.

Wallingat NSW

7.2 km away

Coachwood Loop Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Coachwood Loop Walking Track

This short loop walk in Wallingat National Park begins at Sugar Creek picnic area and wanders gently through striking cabbage palms and tall eucalypt forests. A little further on, the coachwoods appear – their smooth trunks completely covered in horizontal patches of grey lichens. The loop track forks off to the left and returns back along the watercourse. While this track is Grade 5 due to not having directional signage, you'll still find it a gentle walk. An impressive 258 animal species have been recorded in the park, with 47 of these species considered threatened or of conservation significance. Over 300 plant species have also been identified, and the park’s vegetation ranges from tall moist forest, swamps and rainforest to dry forests and woodlands. Particularly striking are the majestic white flooded gum and dense cabbage tree palm forests.

Wallingat NSW

7.3 km away

Cabbage Palm Loop Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Cabbage Palm Loop Walking Track

Cabbage Palm loop walking track begins at Sugar Creek picnic area in Wallingat National Park and follows the first section of Coachwood walk. Along the way, you’ll meander over the alluvial flats of Hotel Creek, which are dominated by striking cabbage tree palms, as well as a variety of rainforest species including turpentines and coachwoods. The track continues past majestic flooded gums, Sydney blue gums and into the slightly drier forest featuring brush box. If you’re lucky, you might hear the mimicking calls of a male superb lyrebird engaging in his courtship serenade. Continuing along an old logging road, the track passes another dense canopy of cabbage tree palms before emerging onto Hotel Creek track. Approximately 200 species of birds can be found in and around the park, including wonga pigeons, king parrots, satin bower birds and glossy black cockatoos. Wallabies, kangaroos, goannas and echidnas all also call this area home.

Wallingat NSW

7.3 km away

Sugar Creek Trail — Image credit: Photo: John Spencer

Natural Attractions

Sugar Creek Trail

Sugar Creek trail, also known as Hotel Creek track, is a short walk through lush rainforest and dense palm forest. Starting from Sugar Creek picnic area, it’s a nice hike or easy mountain bike trail that the whole family will enjoy. There is an abundance of wildlife to keep you entertained. You’re bound to spot popular locals such as wallabies, goannas and echidnas. If you’re lucky you might also spot koalas, yellow-bellied gliders and a powerful owl. There are also over 200 bird species found in Wallingat so keep your binoculars handy to get close up views of king parrots, glossy black cockatoos and blue wrens. Find a place along the way to sit and take in the peaceful sounds of the forest. You can then head back to the picnic area to cook up a storm on the barbecue and relax among the tall cabbage palms and flooded gums.

Wallingat NSW

7.4 km away

Sugar Creek picnic area — Image credit: NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Sugar Creek picnic area

Looking for a place to relax and admire nature? Walk through the forest? Maybe cook up a snag or two? Sugar Creek picnic area is a cool sanctuary among the tall timber. Make use of the gas barbecue before heading off on one of the easy walks. The tall cabbage palms and flooded gums are awe-inspiring, having survived logging in the area that continued until 1999. From September to December, you might see the purplish flowers of the red beard orchid or, in early spring, the mauve blossoms of the velvet mint-bush. These forests are also home to hundreds of species of birds, including catbirds (not surprisingly, their call sounds a bit like the mewling of a cat), as well as kangaroos, wallabies, possums and frogs. Those with eagle eyes might also be able to spot koalas in the tall eucalypts, although they’re much easier to see if you bring binoculars.

Wallingat NSW

7.4 km away

Booti Booti National Park

National Parks and Reserves

Booti Booti National Park

Scenically located between the coast and a tranquil lake, on the NSW mid-north coast, Booti Booti National Park takes in scenic headlands, beautiful beaches, refreshing rainforest, and 11km of estuarine foreshore. The name comes from butibuti, the local Worimi Aboriginal word meaning plenty of honey. Plenty is certainly a common theme here plenty of hiking, swimming, birdwatching, and whale watching in the winter as they migrate along the coast. There are plenty of opportunities to settle down in a picnic spot beneath the paperbarks, and plenty of surfing and mountain biking for the young at heart. The beaches are an enduring favourite, with families and sun-lovers turning weekends into energetic gatherings. Add in terrific driving tours and some truly stunning lookouts like the one at Cape Hawke, and you have a park that appeals across the board. Booti Booti has plenty for everyone.

Pacific Palms NSW

7.6 km away

The Green Cathedral on Wallis Lake in the Barrington Coast

Landmarks and Buildings

Green Cathedral

The Green Cathedral is a majestic open-air sanctuary and a unique feature of the Barrington Coast. It's a beautiful place with rough timbered pews and wooden lectern, situated under a canopy of rainforest on the shores of glittering Wallis Lake. Constructed in 1922, this alfresco cathedral is a favourite spot for weddings, worship, blessing of children, baptisms and funeral services.

Tiona NSW

7.7 km away

Wallingat Forest Drive — Image credit: Photo: Ian Charles/NSW Government

Natural Attractions

Wallingat Forest Drive

Prepare to see all Wallingat National Park has to offer in one easy drive. The 25 kilometre loop that is Wallingat Forest drive takes you through the thick forest, the snow-white trunks of gum trees towering over you, and underneath the vast leaves of the cabbage palm shading the road. The route takes in all the major sites of the park, including Wallingat River picnic area, where you can stop for a swim. Be sure to bring an esky full of sandwiches and barbecue essentials so you can relax at Sugar Creek picnic area. You’ll see birds swooping low throughout the drive, wallabies bounding across your path, and maybe even a goanna basking in the sun – so be sure to drive with care. This is an unsealed road, so plan your trip well – wet weather makes it unsuitable for two wheel drive vehicles. If you’re feeling energetic, you can go mountain biking or horse riding along the circuit. Any way you enjoy this route, take your time, relax and enjoy.

Whoota NSW

7.9 km away

Booti Hill and Wallis Lake Walking Track — Image credit: Photo: Ian Brown

Natural Attractions

Booti Hill and Wallis Lake Walking Track

The Booti Hill and Wallis Lake walking track touches both the ocean and the shores of Lake Wallis. Bring your swimmers and make a day walk of it with beautiful views from the headland and plenty of wildlife to keep the camera active. Start at Ruins campground and travel clockwise, so the hardest part is knocked off early. Walk out to the stunning Seven Mile Beach and look for the signposted track – this climbs up the northern side of Booti Hill through twisted eucalypts. There are rest spots along the way, and a small opening with a scenic view of Seagull Point right before you enter some refreshing rainforest. Eventually the track emerges onto the ridge-crest above Lindemans Cove and joins a fire trail that leads to a small clearing. Go straight ahead for Elizabeth Beach and a terrific opportunity for an ocean dip. If it’s winter, you might even spot a migrating whale. There are also tables and a barbecue just 100m along the trail, so don’t forget the picnic.

Booti Booti NSW

8.2 km away

Cockatoo picnic area

Natural Attractions

Cockatoo picnic area

If you fancy a relaxing day being soothed by the gentle sounds of the river, pack up the canoes and make tracks to Cockatoo picnic area in Wallingat National Park, on NSW Mid North Coast. A great way to unwind, this remote riverside picnic area is ideal for nature-lovers and adventurous families who enjoy fishing, swimming and birdwatching. Unroll the picnic blanket in the shade of the majestic eucalypts and, if you're tempted, enjoy a refreshing dip. After a leisurely lunch, launch the kayak at the nearby ramp and paddle down the tranquil Wallingat River for some wildlife spotting along the tranquil waterways. The casuarinas along the river attract the yellow tail black cockatoos while whistling kites and sea eagles are often spotted in the skies above. Round off your day with the spectacular sunset views from Whoota Whoota lookout only a short drive away.

Wallingat NSW

8.3 km away

Seven Mile Beach at Forster

Natural Attractions

Seven Mile Beach, Forster

Seven Mile Beach is a long stretch of remote beach so even in the height of summer you are guaranteed a quiet patch of sand. It is part of Booti Booti National Park. The beach stretches south from Cape Hawke and Janies Corner at Forster down to Tiona and The Ruins Campground at Pacific Palms. At the northern tip of Seven Mile Beach, you'll find a rough dirt track that takes you out to secluded Janies Corner, a good spot for fishing and surfing. At the southern end of Seven Mile Beach, you'll also find Bulls Paddock, a right-hand point break which on a good day will bring a lot of surfers just to catch it. This beach is not patrolled.

Forster NSW

8.4 km away

Seven Mile Beach at Forster in the Barrington Coast — Image credit: Carla Centrone

Landmarks and Buildings

Janie's Corner

Janie's Corner is located at Cape Hawke in the northern precinct of Booti Booti National Park on the Barrington Coast. It is isolated and easy here to imagine being marooned on a deserted island. Cape Hawke ends at Janie's Corner, where Seven Mile Beach begins its long run south to Pacific Palms. Janie's Corner is one of four tiny beaches at Cape Hawke just around the rocky corner from Seven Mile Beach and can be accessed on foot only from the car park. All four are isolated, rocky and hazardous, so use extreme caution. The largest beach here is 200 metres, wedged between protruding sandstone points with rocks also dominating the northern half. Beach breaks and permanent rips make this a highly hazardous beach. NPWS vehicle fees apply to this park.

Forster NSW

9.0 km away

exterior — Image credit: FAACC

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Forster Arts and Craft Centre

The Forster Arts and Crafts Centre is conveniently situated in proximity to the Stocklands shopping centre and a nearby bus stop, making it easily accessible to all. Inside, you'll discover a treasure trove of meticulously handcrafted and top-quality items. The diverse offerings include exquisite quilts, finely knitted and sewn fashion accessories, unique jewellery pieces, captivating paintings, expertly crafted pottery, adorable baby clothes and accessories, skillfully designed woodwork, charming toys, plush soft home furnishings, tasteful decor, one-of-a-kind cards, thoughtful seasonal gifts, and an array of other remarkable creations

Forster NSW

9.1 km away

Forster Kids Spot

Amusement and Theme Parks

Forster Kids Spot

Kids Spot is Forster's only kids' indoor play centre. At Kids Spot, they're passionate about what they do. They have provided a service to the community successfully for the past 18 years and continue to grow. While the kids run wild on the playground, meeting lots of new friends, the parents can sit back, relax and watch their children play, while enjoying a coffee, catching up with friends or having a bite to eat from the cafe. Their equipment includes a mega climbing maze, ball swamps, a jumping castle, slides, a flying fox and much more. Kids Spot also specialises in their famous birthday parties, which are offered during the day and also in the evening. To find more information about holding a party at Kids Spot, visit their website.

Forster NSW

9.2 km away

Gur-um-bee picnic area

Natural Attractions

Gur-um-bee picnic area

Gur-um-bee picnic area is an ideal base to explore the coastal forests within Wallingat National park, either on a car tour or by mountain bike. Located on the NSW Mid North Coast, near Forster, it's ideal for a leisurely family picnic. Set within a tranquil bush setting of moist eucalypt forest with majestic flood gums and lush cabbage tree palms, this picnic area is a great spot for birdwatching. Look for king parrots and wonga pigeons and if you're lucky, you might even see a shy bower bird darting through the bush. Unroll the picnic blanket in a shady spot on the grass or make use of the sheltered picnic tables. Either way, there's plenty of space for the kids to kick a ball while you prepare lunch. For scenic views across the park, check out Whoota Whoota lookout, or enjoy a cycle or leisurely drive along Wallingat Forest drive.

Wallingat NSW

9.3 km away

Forster Fishing Charters

Sports and Recreation Facilities

Forster Fishing Charters

Forster Fishing Charters are available for either the ocean or lake. Try snorkeling with all equipment being supplied or just come out and do a dolphin and whale watch cruise. If you are a beginner, Robbie and his crew will assist you in everything from baiting your line to actually taking your catch off the hook. Rods, reels, bait and tackle are all supplied. Their large comfortable centre seat is actually a big esky which will keep your food and drinks cool all day. At the end of the day, your fish will be cleaned – that is gutted, filleted, scaled and packed for you to take home. A free pick-up and delivery service is available if required within the Forster/Tuncurry area and to make your whole trip more comfortable, there is a toilet on board.

Forster NSW

9.5 km away

Miles Island in Wallis Lake at Forster

Natural Attractions

Miles Island

Miles Island is a small sandy island in Wallis Lake, the sparkling jewel in the crown that consists of the Great Lakes region in the Barrington Coast. It's a popular spot for island hopping by visitors and locals alike. The island is only accessible by boat or paddling across the Breckenridge Channel opposite Forster. Miles Island is also used as a feeding and shelter area for threatened shorebird species including the Pied Oyster Catcher and Little Tern.

Forster NSW

9.8 km away

Forster Tenpin

Entertainment Venues

Forster Tenpin

The Forster Ten Pin Centre is located behind the Bowling Club. Come into the tenpin bowling centre for a game and a meal with the family! They cater for everyone, with social games league bowling, group bookings and a kids club available. Forster Ten Pin Centre features 14 lanes, cosmic bowling (every Friday and Saturday night), Jurassic Indoor Putt Putt, Café and snack bar, catered functions, amusement games, pro shop and they cater for Birthday parties.

Forster NSW

9.9 km away

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