Tea Gardens

Tea Gardens, a peaceful waterfront village on the northern shore of the Myall River, is the perfect escape for travellers seeking laid-back charm and natural beauty. With its calm riverbanks, historic timber cottages, and a relaxed holiday atmosphere, this small town offers a quintessential taste of the New South Wales mid-north coast. It’s an ideal stop for a self-drive journey between Sydney and Port Macquarie, or a serene base for exploring the surrounding waterways.

Highlights & What to See

• Myall River – The heart of Tea Gardens, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or a leisurely riverside stroll. Watch fishing boats come and go, or join a cruise to explore the Myall Lakes system.
• Tea Gardens Ferry – Hop on the free vehicular ferry across the Myall River to Hawks Nest. It’s a short, scenic ride that feels like a mini adventure.
• Moonshadow – This historic paddlewheeler offers river cruises with afternoon tea or dinner, a nostalgic way to soak up the scenery.
• Bennetts Head Lookout – A short drive away in Hawks Nest, this lookout offers panoramic views over the coast and is a prime spot for whale watching (May–November).
• Jimmy’s Beach – A calm, family-friendly beach on the ocean side, great for swimming and picnicking.
• Local dining – Try fresh seafood at the Tea Gardens Hotel or the Boatshed, both with river views and a relaxed vibe.

Suggested Time to Spend

Tea Gardens is a small town that can be explored in a half-day, but it’s best enjoyed as a relaxed overnight stop. Arrive in the afternoon, take a ferry ride, have dinner by the river, and spend the next morning kayaking or walking along the foreshore. If you’re combining it with the Myall Lakes or Nelson Bay, allow two to three days to truly unwind.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hawks Nest – Just across the ferry, this coastal village offers stunning beaches and the Worimi Conservation Lands.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast system of lakes, forests, and wetlands, ideal for boating, fishing, and bushwalking.
• Nelson Bay – The hub of the Port Stephens area, with dolphin cruises, dune adventures, and excellent seafood.
• Port Stephens – A larger region encompassing Nelson Bay, Shoal Bay, and Anna Bay, known for its blue-water bays and sand dunes.
• Seal Rocks – A remote, beautiful coastal area with a historic lighthouse and pristine beaches, about an hour’s drive south.
• Forster – A lively town on the Great Lakes, offering beaches, the Booti Booti National Park, and great fishing spots.

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