Hawks Nest Lookout

Perched above the southern shores of Port Stephens, Hawks Nest Lookout delivers one of the most arresting panoramas along the NSW coast. From this elevated vantage point, you gaze across the shimmering blue expanse of the bay, the white sand of Jimmy's Beach, and the forested slopes of the Myall Lakes National Park. The lookout is a short, easy walk from the car park, making it a rewarding pit stop for anyone exploring the Tomaree Peninsula or the Great Lakes region. Bring your camera at sunrise or late afternoon when the light paints the water in gold and pink.

Highlights & What to See

• Panoramic views over Port Stephens: The lookout offers a sweeping vista of the bay, including the iconic headlands of Yacaaba and Tomaree. On clear days you can spot dolphins playing in the channel below.
• Jimmy's Beach: Directly below, this long, uncrowded stretch of sand is perfect for a post-lookout swim or a beachcombing stroll. It's also a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding.
• Myall Lakes National Park: The lookout provides a glimpse into this vast wilderness of lakes, wetlands and coastal forests. It's a prime area for birdwatching, bushwalking and canoeing.
• Whale watching (June–November): During migration season, the lookout is a fantastic place to spot humpback whales breaching and spouting as they travel along the coast.
• Nearby walking tracks: The Tomaree Head Summit Walk, a short drive away, offers even more dramatic views and is a must-do for active travellers.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 20 to 30 minutes at the lookout itself, including the short walk from the car park and time to soak in the scenery. However, if you combine it with a visit to Jimmy's Beach or a walk on the nearby Tomaree Head, plan for 1.5 to 2 hours. For a half-day outing, add a picnic at the beach or a kayak paddle in the bay. The lookout is a quick stop on a self-drive itinerary of the Port Stephens area, so you can easily fit it in between other attractions.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Tomaree Head Summit Walk – A challenging but rewarding climb with 360-degree views of Port Stephens and beyond; just 5 minutes' drive from the lookout.
• Nelson Bay – The hub of Port Stephens, with dolphin-watching cruises, restaurants and the marina; 10 minutes' drive from Hawks Nest.
• Shoal Bay – A beautiful beach town with calm waters, great for families and snorkelling; 10 minutes away.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Explore the lakes by canoe or take a bushwalk through coastal heath; the park entrance is a short drive north.
• Anna Bay – Famous for its sand dunes, where you can go sandboarding or take a 4WD tour; 20 minutes south.

Please check official sources for current details.