Tea Gardens

Tea Gardens is a tranquil riverside village on the northern shores of Port Stephens, where the Myall River meets the sea. With its charming timber boardwalk, historic pub, and laid-back atmosphere, it's the perfect escape from the Sydney crowds. The town is a gateway to the Myall Lakes National Park and offers a quintessential taste of coastal New South Wales.

Highlights & What to See

• Boardwalk & Riverfront: Stroll the scenic boardwalk along the Myall River, lined with cafés and shops. Watch the boats come and go, and keep an eye out for dolphins and pelicans.
• Tea Gardens Ferry: Hop on the vehicular ferry across the river to Hawks Nest—a short, fun ride that's a local institution.
• Myall Lakes National Park: Explore this vast freshwater lake system by kayak, canoe, or boat. Paddle through paperbark swamps and spot abundant birdlife.
• Moonshadow Cruises: Join a sunset cruise on the river or a dolphin-watching tour—Port Stephens is famous for its resident bottlenose dolphins.
• Historic Pub Lunch: The Tea Gardens Hotel (the 'T.G.'), a classic Aussie pub, serves hearty meals and cold beers on a verandah overlooking the water.
• Shoal Bay & Fingal Bay: A short drive south leads to these stunning white-sand beaches with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

Suggested Time to Spend

Tea Gardens makes a perfect overnight stop or a base for two to three days. Spend one day exploring the town and taking a ferry to Hawks Nest, then dedicate a full day to kayaking or boating on Myall Lakes. If you're short on time, a half-day visit is enough to enjoy a coffee by the river and a walk along the boardwalk.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hawks Nest: Just across the ferry, this quiet village offers beautiful beaches and the starting point for walks in Myall Lakes.
• Port Stephens (Nelson Bay): The main hub of the region, with dolphin cruises, sand dunes at Stockton Beach, and the Tomaree National Park summit walk.
• Myall Lakes National Park: Explore the lakes further—camping, fishing, and bushwalking opportunities abound.
• Bungwahl & Seal Rocks: North of Tea Gardens, these remote coastal spots have pristine beaches and the historic Sugarloaf Point Lighthouse.
• Hunter Valley Wine Region: About an hour's drive west, famous for its wineries, restaurants, and hot air ballooning.

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