Forster & Taree Area

Aptly described by its traditional Aboriginal custodians as “the place where the leaves touch the waters, from the mountains to the sea”, the Barrington Coast meanders from the Great Lakes in the south to the lush Manning Valley, encompassing World Heritage-listed wilderness, tranquil lakes and spectacular beaches. This is a stunning and easily accessible region where adventure comes naturally, from admiring tumbling waterfalls, to kayaking through tranquil estuaries or sharing the waves with curious dolphins.

Coastal aerial of Forster Beach and Coolongolook River, Forster-Tuncurry, Forster & Taree Area

Vibrant townships

The towns of Forster and Taree are both excellent bases for exploring the Barrington Coast, with plenty of facilities, accommodation and attractions to ease you into holiday mode. Forster is the heart of the Great Lakes, surrounded by waterways including Myall and Wallis lakes as well as pristine beaches such as Hawks Nest, Pacific Palms or the deserted Booti Booti National Park.

Kangaroos at Diamond Head Beach in Diamond Head, Forster & Taree

Nestled on the banks of the Manning River, the historic town of Taree is an ideal place to enjoy cruising, boating and fishing, as well as scenic drives to hinterland rainforests and national parks. Surrounded by rich farmland, Taree is a hub for local produce showcased on the menus of buzzing cafes and restaurants. You can also enjoy wine tasting at boutique valley wineries. Check out the events calendar for festivals, farmers markets and special events.

The towering Ellenborough Falls, on the mid NSW North Coast

Hit the road

With its scenic variety, the Barrington Coast is ideal for roadtripping, exploring from the beach at Old Bar near Crowdy Bay National Park to Wingham’s historic town centre. In the verdant Manning Valley, marvel at Ellenborough Falls, one of the longest single-drop waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere; or hike through subtropical rainforests in Coorabakh National Park, taking in uninterrupted views over volcanic formations at Big Nellie Lookout.

A flock of galahs (pink and grey cockatoos) near One Mile Beach in Forster, North Coast

Getting there & where to stay

The Forster and Taree region is around 3hr 45min drive north of Sydney or two hours from Newcastle. You can also take a train from Sydney to Taree, with the journey taking around 5.5 hours. There are coach services to both towns. Fly Pelican currently operates direct flights between Sydney and Taree twice a week.

Accommodation options in the region range from seaside resorts and rural retreats, to waterside holiday parks and camping in national parks. Near Forster you will find campgrounds in Myall Lakes National Park, and near Taree, the Coopernook State Forest has peaceful tent and van sites surrounded by tall gum trees. Houseboats are another great option in this watery wonderland.

Taree Airport

Fly into Taree Airport

Taree Airport is 7km from Taree’s town centre. Use the taxi services to make the short trip northeast. Alternatively, rent a car from the hire services available at the airport and explore the regions of Manning Valley and the Great Lakes at your own pace.

Fly Pelican operates direct flights between Sydney and Taree twice a week. For other major Australian cities, connect via Sydney to travel into Taree.

Forster & Taree Area Highlights

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Things to Do and Places to Stay

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