Tea Gardens Hawks Nest

Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest are twin towns on the northern shores of Port Stephens, offering a laid-back coastal escape with pristine beaches, tranquil waterways, and a charming village atmosphere. The area is a haven for nature lovers and water enthusiasts, with the Myall River meandering between the two settlements and providing a scenic backdrop for kayaking, fishing, and boating. The iconic Singing Bridge connects the towns, and the pace of life here is wonderfully slow, making it an ideal spot to unwind.

Highlights & What to See

• Bennetts Beach – A spectacular 11-kilometre stretch of white sand that's perfect for swimming, surfing, and long walks. It's patrolled during summer and offers stunning views of the coastline.
• Myall River – Explore the river by kayak or stand-up paddleboard; hire equipment from local operators and paddle past mangroves and birdlife. The river is also great for fishing for flathead and bream.
• Tea Gardens Ferry – Take the historic car ferry across the Myall River to Nelson Bay; it's a charming and practical way to explore the southern side of Port Stephens.
• Hawks Nest Golf Club – A scenic 18-hole golf course overlooking the river and ocean, with kangaroos often grazing on the fairways. Non-members are welcome.
• Jimmy's Beach – A quieter alternative to Bennetts Beach, ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful spot for a picnic or swim.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Just north of Hawks Nest, this park features pristine lakes, rainforest, and abundant wildlife. Walk the Mungo Brush Rainforest Walk or hire a canoe to explore the waterways.

Suggested Time to Spend

Plan for at least two full days to soak up the relaxed vibe and explore the natural attractions. Spend one day on the water—kayaking the Myall River or taking the ferry to Nelson Bay—and another day alternating between Bennetts Beach and a walk in Myall Lakes National Park. If you're a golfer or angler, you could easily stretch it to three or four days. The area is also a perfect stopover for a couple of nights as part of a longer road trip along the North Coast.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Nelson Bay – The bustling hub of Port Stephens, offering dolphin-watching cruises, restaurants, and shops, just a short ferry ride away.
• Port Stephens – The broader region with stunning beaches like Fingal Bay and One Mile Beach, plus the Tomaree Head Summit walk for panoramic views.
• Myall Lakes National Park – Extend your nature exploration with more walks, camping, and water activities in this vast wilderness area.
• Bula Bula – A quiet riverside hamlet perfect for kayakers and birdwatchers, located up the Myall River.
• Pacific Palms – About an hour north, with the spectacular Blueys Beach and the Booti Booti National Park for coastal walks.

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