Hawks Nest

Hawks Nest is a serene coastal village at the northern end of the Hunter Region, where the Myall River meets the Tasman Sea. It's the kind of place where time slows down – think long, empty beaches, shimmering waterways, and a landscape of dunes and coastal bush. This is the gateway to the Myall Lakes National Park, a wonderland for kayakers, birdwatchers, and anyone craving a dose of unspoiled nature. The vibe is laid-back and family-friendly, with a handful of excellent cafés and a fishing co-op that sells the day's catch. For travellers on a self-drive itinerary from Sydney or Newcastle, Hawks Nest offers a peaceful contrast to the Hunter's wine country, and it's an easy detour that rewards with genuine wilderness.

Highlights & What to See

• Bennetts Beach: A spectacular, patrolled stretch of sand that goes for kilometres – perfect for swimming, surfing, or simply strolling at sunset. The southern end is popular for fishing.
• Myall Lakes National Park: Paddle through a network of tranquil lakes and rivers, spot sea eagles and kangaroos, and hike the Mungo Brush Rainforest Walk for a dose of cool, green serenity.
• Jimmy's Beach: On the Myall River side, this calm, shallow beach is ideal for families with young kids, with picnic tables and a boat ramp nearby.
• Point Stephens Lighthouse: A scenic coastal walk from Fingal Bay leads to this historic lighthouse (currently closed to the public but a great photo spot), with views over the bay and the chance to spot whales in season.
• Karuah River Oysters: Just across the bridge, the Karuah area is famous for its oysters – stop at the local shacks for a dozen fresh shucked ones.

Suggested Time to Spend

Two to three days is ideal to soak up the best of Hawks Nest and the surrounding national park. With one day, you can explore the main beach, hire a kayak on the Myall Lakes, and grab a meal at the Hawks Nest Café. With an extra day, take a boat tour on the lakes or drive to the nearby town of Tea Gardens for a seafood lunch. The area is also a fantastic base for a longer stay if you're keen on fishing, birdwatching, or simply unwinding.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tea Gardens: A charming village just across the bridge, with a historic hotel, boutique shops, and a lovely waterfront walk.
• Port Stephens: Twenty minutes south, this popular holiday hub offers dolphin cruises, sandboarding at Stockton Bight, and the Tomaree Head Summit walk with epic views.
• Myall Lakes National Park: The park itself stretches north and west, with camping spots, walking trails, and the remote Broughton Island accessible by boat.
• Bulgah Beach: A quieter, dog-friendly beach just north of Hawks Nest, great for a peaceful afternoon.
• Karuah: A small town on the Karuah River, known for its oyster farms and the Karuah Jetty – a lovely spot for a picnic.

Please check official sources for current details.