The Tanks is a natural rockpool formation along Forster's Bicentennial Walk, created by historic steel ship's tanks left behind during breakwall construction in the 1890s. The rock formations shelter the pool from ocean swell, making it a calm, family-friendly snorkel spot. At high tide, the pool fills with clear water; as the tide recedes, sandy patches emerge. Waves crashing over the surrounding rocks add drama while keeping the swimming area protected. Located near Pebbly Beach with its park, BBQs, and playground, it's a beloved local gem for a safe splash and snorkel on the Mid North Coast of NSW.
The Tanks
BeginnerMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.7 mSwell Period 6.7 sWind Speed 12 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase ebb
Last evaluated
The spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: No lifeguard patrol
This location is not patrolled by lifesavers — swim at your own risk.
Low risk: Changing tide conditions
At low tide the pool drains significantly, exposing sand, and at high tide waves can crash over the rocks. Snorkel best at mid-to-high tide.
Low risk: Slippery rocks
The rock formations around the pool can be slippery, especially when wet.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
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Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Park along Head Street, Forster, and walk through the reserve towards the ocean. The Tanks is a short 100-metre walk across the foreshore lawn from the parking area, situated along the Bicentennial Walk near Pebbly Beach.
Parking & facilities
Street parking available along Head Street, near the reserve entrance.
parkingtoiletspicnic_tables
Free entry. No fees apply.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports