Tea Gardens Hawks Nest

Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest are twin towns separated by the shimmering waters of the Myall River, offering a serene coastal escape just north of Newcastle. With pristine beaches, a laid-back vibe, and a backdrop of the Myall Lakes National Park, this area is a haven for nature lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a genuine slice of NSW coastal life. The pace is slow, the seafood is fresh, and the sunsets over the river are unforgettable.

Highlights & What to See

• Bennetts Beach – a magnificent stretch of white sand that seems to go on forever, perfect for long walks, swimming, and surfing. It's patrolled in season and rarely crowded.
• Myall River Cruise – hop on a cruise from Tea Gardens to explore the Myall Lakes system, spot dolphins and pelicans, and learn about the area's Aboriginal heritage and early timber industry.
• Myall Lakes National Park – a vast network of lakes, waterways, and bushland ideal for kayaking, fishing, and bushwalking. The park is a Ramsar-listed wetland teeming with birdlife.
• Moonshadow – a historic paddlewheeler offering lunch and dinner cruises, giving you a nostalgic glimpse of river life.
• Tea Gardens Ferry – take the free ferry across the Myall River between the two towns; it's a charming ride with great views.
• Local seafood – try the fresh oysters, prawns, and fish and chips at one of the waterfront cafes or the famous Boat shed Restaurant.

Suggested Time to Spend

To fully appreciate the area, plan for at least two to three days. Spend one day exploring the beaches and the national park, another on the water with a cruise or kayaking, and a third simply relaxing and enjoying the local food scene. If you're short on time, a day trip from Newcastle or Port Stephens can give you a taste, but you'll want to linger longer.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Stephens – just south, with its famous sand dunes, dolphin cruises, and the resort town of Nelson Bay.
• Myall Lakes National Park – extend your exploration into the park's deeper reaches, including the stunning Bombah Broadwater.
• Booral – a historic village with a lovely old church and a great pub, perfect for a pit stop.
• Seal Rocks – a tiny coastal settlement with a lighthouse, pristine beaches, and excellent surfing.
• Bulahdelah – gateway to the Alum Mountain and the northern end of the Myall Lakes, with scenic lookouts and walking trails.

Please check official sources for current details.