Pretty Beach

Pretty Beach is a serene coastal hamlet on the western shores of the Myall River, offering a peaceful escape from the busier beach towns of Port Stephens. This hidden gem is beloved for its calm, clear waters, lush bushland setting, and uncrowded shores – perfect for travellers seeking quiet nature, kayaking, and a genuine taste of the Australian lakeside lifestyle.

Highlights & What to See

• Pretty Beach itself – a sheltered, sandy beach with gentle waters ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, and launching a kayak; the adjacent picnic area with barbecues makes it easy to spend a lazy afternoon.
• Myall River kayaking and boating – explore the winding waterways and mangrove forests, spotting pelicans, ospreys, and maybe a sea eagle; bring your own vessel or rent from nearby Hawks Nest.
• Bushwalking in Myall Lakes National Park – the beach is the gateway to several short trails through coastal heath and paperbark swamps, such as the walk to the old fishing village of Mungo Brush.
• Fishing off the beach or from a tinny – the river is known for flathead, bream, and whiting; the boat ramp at Pretty Beach makes launching easy.
• Sunset over the river – find a spot on the sand or at the picnic tables and watch the sky turn gold and pink over the still water.

Suggested Time to Spend

Pretty Beach is a half-day to full-day destination. Most visitors come for a morning of kayaking followed by a picnic lunch, or an afternoon swim and walk. If you're staying in nearby Hawks Nest or Tea Gardens, it's easy to combine with other activities in the area. For a truly relaxed pace, bring a book and spend a whole day unwinding by the water.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hawks Nest – just a 10-minute drive away, with patrolled surf beaches, the Hawks Nest Golf Course, and the popular Jimmy's Beach for swimming.
• Tea Gardens – a charming historic village on the opposite side of the river, accessible by ferry; known for its cafes, art galleries, and the famous Tea Gardens Hotel.
• Myall Lakes National Park – extend your exploration to the vast lake system, sand dunes, and the remote beach at Mungo Brush.
• Port Stephens – a 30-minute drive to Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay for dolphin watching, sandboarding at Stockton Bight, and vibrant dining.

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