Next time you’re heading to the Great Lakes Region, don’t just stick to your usual beach and coffee spot – give something different a try.

When HUNTERhunter hits the road, we don’t do it by halves. Jam-packing our two-day trip with an itinerary that was sure to keep our bellies full, our legs stretched, and our skin sun kissed.

If you’re planning a trip to the region, keep this article saved to make the most of your time away.

EXPLORE

Tuncurry Breakwall

Sitting between Tuncurry Rock Pools and 9 Mile Beach is the short (but stunning) walk out to the point of Tuncurry Breakwall. Get the kids to point out what fish they can spot in the channel (if you’re lucky, there may even be dolphins) or check out the surfers catching a wave to the North at 9 Mile Beach.
Where: Tuncurry

Cape Hawke Lookout

It’s only a short 30minute one-way trip, but once you reach the top of the tower, you’ll be presented with a complete 360-degree view of the area.
Insider Tip: Pack Aeroguard – you’ll thank me later.
Where: Booti Booti National Park

Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse

Located east of Seal Rocks Village, the 1875 Lighthouse is a top spot for watching whales as they migrate on their journey along the coast. 
Where: 75-77 Lighthouse Rd

SHOP

Burraduc Farm

Keen to try some local goodies whilst you’re in town? On the way through, pull into Burraduc Farm’s road-side shed offering a self-serve honesty system of their Buffalo Dairy. Offering milk, cheese, yoghurt and even ice-cream!
Where: The Lakes Way, Bungwahl

Blueys Cellar & Deli

Your go-to spot for all things good food and drink. From craft beer, to quality gins and all the best local produce.
Where: 197 Boomerang Dr

Palms Artisan Bakery

The husband and wife team behind Palms Artisan Bakery create the best of sourdough breads and artisan toasted muesli. Based in Buladelah, you can pick up their goodies at a number of spots around town. Click here for the full list.

Coastal Brewing Co.

The regions only microbrewery serves up local fresh craft beer. Drop in for a guided tour and to sample some of their brews.
Where: 3 Dalman St, Forster

SWIM

Cellito Beach

A little off the beaten track, Cellito Beach lies at the end of a dirt track (it's a little bumpy but most cars will make it through) and a short walk down a rainforest-esque boardwalk. Known for the great surf breaks, Cellito also has an awesome rocky area to the north end of the beach; perfect for spotting starfish in the rockpools.

Where: 7167 Sandbar Rd, Sandbar

Boomerang Beach

Quoted by VisitNSW as the ‘best surfing beach in the Pacific Palms precinct,’ Boomerang Beach spans a decent 1.45km of semi-sheltered waters, with a number of access points. The North end has a dedicated carpark and viewing platform for keen surfers to get a good look on the conditions. Great for swimming, surfing or spending the afternoon getting stuck into a local pizza.
Where: Boomerang Beach Rd

Blueys Beach

We would highly recommend setting an alarm to catch the sunrise over Blueys Beach. Being only accessible by foot,\ means for a fairly empty beach, so, if you’re a dog lover (like myself), take a seat and watch the locals walk along the sand with their four-legged friends and catch a quick puppy cuddle.

Forster Ocean Baths

In all my years of living in NSW, and visits I’ve had to Forster, I never knew they had their own ocean baths! They're perfect for those with young families as you can look across to Forster Main Beach and is only short stroll to somewhere for lunch.
Where: North St, Foster

Forster Main Beach

Stretching from Forster Breakwall to Forster Ocean Baths, it also marks the starting point for the Bicentennial Walk which leads to One Mile Beach.
Where: Forster

Tuncurry Rock Pools

Another swimming spot I never knew existed! On the other side of town in Tuncurry is this perfectly protected swimming spot right off of the channel and away from the waves of 9 Mile Beach.
Where: Rockpool Rd, Tuncurry

9 Mile Beach

The whopping 11.7km long beach extends from Black Head to Tuncurry and is popular for both surfers and families.
Where: Tuncurry

Number One Beach

Located besides the steep incline as you drive in to Seal Rocks, with the narrow road wedged in between the beach and the hill. Being semi-protected, the water can often be nice and calm making it great for a stand-up paddleboarding session!
Where: Seal Rocks

Boat Beach

The often overlooked, but one of the more scenic beaches is Boat Beach. In the cooler months its practically untouched and is popular for fishing and diving.
Where: Seal Rocks