Tea Gardens

Tea Gardens is a serene waterfront village on the Myall River, just across from Hawks Nest, offering a peaceful escape with a touch of old-school charm. With its timber boardwalk, fishing boats bobbing in the channel, and a handful of laid-back cafes, it feels like a step back to a simpler time. The area is a gateway to the Myall Lakes National Park and the stunning beaches of the lower north coast, making it ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet coastal retreat.

Highlights & What to See

• Myall River Boardwalk – A scenic timber walkway that winds along the river, perfect for a morning stroll with views of moored boats and birdlife.
• Tea Gardens Ferry – Take the free car ferry across the Myall River to Hawks Nest, a charming village with access to the pristine beaches of Jimmys Beach and Winda Woppa.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Explore one of NSW's largest coastal lake systems by kayak, canoe, or boat. The park offers excellent fishing, birdwatching, and secluded camping spots.
• Moonee Beach – A quiet, unpatrolled beach on the ocean side of Hawks Nest, great for a peaceful swim or surf when conditions are calm.
• Fishing and Boating – The Myall River and lakes are renowned for flathead, bream, and whiting. Hire a tinny or join a charter for a day on the water.

Suggested Time to Spend

Tea Gardens itself can be explored in a couple of hours, but to truly appreciate the area, plan for a full day or an overnight stay. Spend the morning walking the boardwalk and grabbing a coffee at a riverside cafe, then take the ferry to Hawks Nest for lunch and a beach afternoon. If you have a kayak or boat, add another half-day to explore the Myall Lakes. For a relaxing weekend, base yourself in Tea Gardens and use it as a launchpad for nearby national parks and coastal walks.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hawks Nest – Just across the river via ferry, this laid-back village offers stunning beaches, the Hawks Nest Golf Course, and access to the northern end of Myall Lakes National Park.
• Port Stephens – A 45-minute drive south, this popular holiday region boasts dolphin cruises, sand dunes at Stockton Beach, and the lively town of Nelson Bay.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Directly accessible from Tea Gardens, this vast park is a paradise for paddlers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
• Bungwahl – A small settlement at the northern edge of the lakes, with a historic pub and access to the remote Seal Rocks area, known for its lighthouse and surf beaches.
• Bulahdelah – About 30 minutes north, this town sits on the Myall River and offers the dramatic Alum Mountain lookout and the start of the Great Lakes Way scenic drive.

Please check official sources for current details.