Burgess Beach, NSW, is something of a local secret. In Forster on the Mid North Coast, it isn’t nearly as well known as other local favourites such as One Mile Beach, Forster Beach and Tuncurry Beach.
You also have to put in a bit of work to get there. Burgess Beach is off Burgess Road in Forster, but the path down to it is pretty darned steep.
Surfing and swimming at Burgess Beach, Forster
This Mid North Coast beach is not one you come to for vast curves of white sand. It’s only about 300 metres long and there are a few rocky sections. It’s a reasonably protected beach which makes the waves quite small.
Surf conditions can be decent occasionally, but it’s not somewhere you’d pick for reliable surf. Swimmers should be aware that the beach is not patrolled by surf lifesavers, although it’s not especially hazardous.
The fairy pool: Burgess Beach tidal rock pool
The aspect of Burgess Beach that is starting to give it a reputation is the tidal pool at the northern end. This tidal rock pool has been dubbed a “fairy pool” by Instagrammers, and people have started showing up there purely to get their photo taken.
There are also some small mini-caves amongst the rocks on the northern side of the beach. This is a place you come to for exploration and rock-hopping rather than sunbathing.
Continuing along south from Burgess Beach, you soon reach the Cape Hawke section of Booti Booti National Park.
Burgess Beach Forster: key visitor information
There are no toilets or facilities at the beach itself — bring everything you need. Visit at low tide to get the most from the rock pools. Park considerately, as this is a residential area.
| Question | Information |
|---|---|
| What are the opening hours of Burgess Beach? | Always open. There are no set opening or closing times. |
| How much does it cost to visit Burgess Beach? | Entry is free. |
| Where is Burgess Beach? | Burgess Road, Forster NSW 2428. There is no signage on the road, so look carefully for the steep path leading down to the beach. |
| Is there parking at Burgess Beach? | A small car park is available off Burgess Road. Additional limited street parking is available nearby. This is a residential area, so park considerately and keep noise down. |
| What facilities are at Burgess Beach? | None on the beach itself. No toilets, showers or shops. A viewing platform is located at the reserve. Bring all food, water and sunscreen with you. |
| Is Burgess Beach patrolled by lifeguards? | No. Burgess Beach is unpatrolled. Swim with caution, especially if you are unfamiliar with the conditions. |
| Is Burgess Beach suitable for children? | Yes, particularly for families who enjoy exploring. The sheltered, calm water and rock caves make it well suited to children, though the steep access path and rocky surfaces require care. |
| When is the best time to visit the Burgess Beach rock pools? | At or around low tide, when the tidal pools are fully exposed and easiest to explore. |
| Is Burgess Beach accessible for wheelchair users? | Access to the beach is via a steep set of stairs, which is not wheelchair accessible. The viewing platform at the reserve may be accessible — contact MidCoast Council for details. |
| How far is Burgess Beach from Forster town centre? | Around a five-minute drive. |
Things to do near Burgess Beach, Forster
One Mile Beach – A short walk or drive from Burgess Beach, this long, sweeping surf beach is one of Forster’s most popular, with surf lifesaving patrols during summer and good conditions for swimming between the flags.
Booti Booti National Park – Directly adjoining Burgess Beach to the south, this national park features walking trails through coastal heath and forest, with scenic views from the Cape Hawke headland lookout.
Tuncurry Beach – Just across the Wallis Lake bridge, Tuncurry Beach is a patrolled family beach with a calm ocean pool at its northern end, making it a good alternative for young children or less confident swimmers.
Forster Town Beach – The main beach in central Forster, patrolled throughout summer, with easy access to cafés, restaurants and shops along the foreshore.
Wallis Lake – The broad, calm estuary between Forster and Tuncurry is a popular spot for fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding and family boating, with several launch points around the town.
More New South Wales travel
Other New South Wales travel guides on Planet Whitley include:
- Why Ballina is more than just a gateway town for Byron Bay.
- Why visit Wategos Beach in Byron Bay?
- Planning a visit to the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour.
- What to expect at the Walkabout Wildlife Sanctuary on the Central Coast.
- What first time visitors can expect at the Hunter Valley Wildlife Park.
