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Things to do in Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens
- Deb Carr
- Nov 21, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Jan 10
Updated Article January 2026
Discover things to do in Hawks Nest and Tea by exploring this guide, by a local.
Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens sit quietly on the northern edge of Port Stephens, where life slows down and nature sets the pace. Most of the year, Hawks Nest feels like a sleepy coastal village, all wide beaches, bushland walks and salty air. Cross the Singing Bridge and you’ll find Tea Gardens, a laid-back riverside town known for its peaceful foreshore walks, pelicans gathering by the water, and easy access to the Myall River.
During school holidays and the Christmas period, both towns come alive with visitors — yet even at their busiest, they retain a relaxed, small-town charm that keeps people coming back year after year.
Hawks Nest Village
Hawks Nest is a sleepy little village until Christmas when it turns into one of Sydney's most popular holiday destinations. The neighbouring village, across the Singing Bridge, is Tea Gardens. It is a tranquil paradise with a wonderful path beside the river. In peak season, Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens become crowded with tourists and holiday makers, but they will never outdo the Pelicans!
Hawks Nest has limited shopping and in saying that, there is an IGA, bakery, bottle shop, real estate, flower and gift shop, bar, restaurants, chemist and medical centre.
Things to do in Hawks Nest
Activities to enjoy consist of fishing, kayaking, ferrying across to Nelson Bay, swimming, camping, hiking, exploring the art gallery, visiting the boutiques or relaxing with a beer at the pub.
The Singing Bridge - Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens
The Singing Bridge, which links Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest, derives its name from the noises produced by the railings in powerful South/Westerly winds. Caution is advised for pedestrians during peak hours when the narrow path can make passing each other challenging. Despite this, the bridge offers a breathtaking view, and I once witnessed a mother dolphin swimming with her calf directly beneath it.
Jean Shaw Koala Reserve
The Jean Shaw Koala Reserve is located on Kingfisher Avenue (corner of Ibis Avenue), just across the Myall River and just behind the Singing Bridge. The koalas are endangered due to road kills and dogs. They particularly like munching on Swamp Mahogany. I remember years ago when I visited Hawks Nest the koalas were seen wandering around the streets; I am yet to encounter one since I moved up here in September. There are since been a development on the opposite side of the Reserve which has taken away a lot of vegetation.
Swim and Relax at Jimmys Beach
Jimmys Beach is sensational and, stunning! When I first discovered this beautiful beach, I was in awe. This tranquil beach is a picture of paradise, with calm waters, water birds and views to Nelson Bay and other towns in Port Stephens. The beach is wonderful to swim in, but it can have a strong current so caution is needed as with any beach swimming. The views are spectacular. On the Southern end of the beach there are a few tracks that take you across to Bennetts Beach. You may come across dingoes on these beaches.
Bennetts Beach Hawks Nest
Bennetts Beach in Hawks Nest is the primary beach in the area and is home to a surf life-saving club. Certain sections of the beach permit 4WD vehicles, although a permit is required for access. This beach is quite lengthy, and I find it challenging to walk on when the tide is high due to the softness of the sand. Despite this, I have a great fondness for this beach because of its stunning views and crystal-clear water. The sight of Mt Yacaaba from the beach is truly magnificent, and to reach the summit, one must traverse the shoreline. Additionally, Bennetts Beach features numerous sand dunes that offer entertainment for children. Dolphins are often spotted.
Hawks Nest Golf Club
Hawks Nest Golf Club is a beautiful space adjacent to the beach. The Club offers modern Clubhouse facilities and a magnificent Championship rated 18 hole course of 6079 metres of pleasant walking. The club welcomes all standard of players.
Mount Yacaaba Headland and Bushwalk
For those who enjoy a challenging hike with stunning views, put on your hiking boots and head to Yacaaba Headland walking track. This trail takes you across the northern headland of Port Stephens, located in the southern part of Myall Lakes National Park. Initially, the walk is relatively easy for the first 1km, but the final 500m becomes tough, with a steep and rocky ascent.
Mungo Brush Camping Ground
Mungo Brush campground is not far out of Hawks Nest on the Mid North Coast NSW. It is a wonderful place to take your caravan, campervan, trailer or tent. There are 72 campsites to choose from, including: caravan, tent, camper, tailer and sleep next to the car, but be warned, in summer, you will have to battle mosquitoes. Mungo Brush campground offers a close walk to the beach, lake views, kayaking, fishing, bushwalking in the stunning rainforest and relaxation in nature.
I drive out to Mungo at least once a week because it really is spectacular and I love being in nature.
Dingoes in Hawks Nest
Dingoes are frequently spotted wandering around Hawks Nest and Mungo Brush, and it is advised for visitors not to feed them. Feeding these wild dogs does not benefit them in any way; in fact, it only exacerbates the issue. I have had a couple of encounters with these animals. Once, I ventured out for a solo bushwalk (I know, not very smart) and stumbled upon a few dingoes. It was a frightening experience despite the fact that they are quite tame in this area. After managing to escape that situation, the following day I was driving towards Mungo Brush when I spotted a lone dingo on the road. I stopped and quickly took a photo, but this time I had the safety of my car to protect me!
Dark Point Aboriginal Place
Without a doubt, Dark Point Aboriginal Place is the most sacred place ever! You can read more about this Dark Point Aboriginal place in this post.
Please be respectful when you visit and take your rubbish with you including the things you slide down the dunes on.
Accommodation in Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens
Whether you prefer ocean breezes or river views, these are the best places to start your search:
– Hawks Nest accommodation (beachside stays and holiday units)
– Tea Gardens accommodation (riverfront, motels and relaxed getaways)
Dining in Hawks Nest
Sando's Restaurant and Cafe - situated in Hawks Nest Golf Club
Moongarden Restaurant - Chinese cuisine
The Nest Cafe - Next to IGA
Barefoot Cafe and Pizza - Near Bombah Point Ferry which ferries cars across the river
Things to do in Tea Gardens NSW
To reach Hawks Nest, you need to travel through Tea Gardens. The Singing Bridge acts as a boundary between the two communities. Nestled by the Myall River, Tea Gardens is a charming village that provides a peaceful escape. Surrounded by waterways and parks, the village offers a serene atmosphere. One of the things I enjoy the most is brewing a cup of coffee and walking down to the water to admire the sunrise (shown in the first photo of this article).
The Tea Gardens Hotel
The Tea Gardens hotel is a favourite pub among both residents and tourists. They offer excellent bistro dishes and pizzas, and their garden area is ideal for a lunch outing on a pleasant day! The hotel boasts water views and provides affordable accommodation as well. As previously stated, it is advisable to visit during the off-peak season to fully appreciate the charm of Tea Gardens without the large crowds.
The Gallery, Galleries in the Garden
Galleries in the Garden is a non-profit community collective of local artists from Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest and the Myall River region.
Nestled within lush, shaded gardens along the Myall River waterfront in Tea Gardens, The Gallery cottage is filled with a variety of artworks and creative gifts available for display and purchase.
Visit Tea Gardens Police Station
The Tea Gardens Police station is a quaint building with a modern 'lock up'. Watch out for Constable Pelican above you!
Take The Original Tea Gardens Ferry to Nelson Bay
The Original Tea Gardens Ferry offers a daily round-trip ferry service connecting Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens. Crossing the bay is a popular activity for both tourists and residents exploring the Port Stephens and Myall Coast Blue Water Wonderland. Their experienced and friendly crew will share interesting insights as you admire the breathtaking views of Port Stephens and The Myall River. Enjoy a leisurely journey through Port Stephens Marine Park and keep a lookout for local wildlife such as Dingoes, Turtles, Seabirds, and the resident dolphins that often entertain our passengers.
Dining in Tea Gardens
Tea Gardens Boatshed - Lovely restaurant overlooking the River for breakfast and lunch
Mumm's on the Myall - Seafood overlooking the river
Tillerman's - French
Thai House - Thai restaurant takeaway and dine in
Auroras - Chinese takeaway
Golden Flame - Pizza, Kebab and Hamburgers
Two Fat Bakers - Bakery, Pies and Coffee
Mema's - Bakery, Pies and Coffee
Shopping in Tea Gardens
Bohemian Spirit - Offers Quality Clothing, Gifts and Jewellery
Bohemian Spirit is an Iconic gift and clothing boutique in Tea Gardens, offering locals and visitors a unique shopping experience. Located on the Cnr of Maxwell and Myall Streets. The boutique offers a wonderful shopping experience.
You will notice the exotic scents from the diffusers created by Australian Native Flora providing a delicate perfume in the store. Infused with Native Aromas and finished with Quandong Seeds, these glass beauties will scent your room 24 hours for up to six months.
Maxine, the owner, is passionate about the environment, particularly reducing landfill, so all packing is recycled as much as possible in the store. The store offers a range of eco-friendly goods as well as organic skincare.
Maxine's business partner is Deb Carr (publisher of Sydney Chic) and local Artisan jeweller (see below).
Handmade Jewellery by Local Artisan in Tea Gardens
I must mention my own store, right? Visit Upbeat and Positive Jewellery located within Bohemian Spirit, where I create and sell crystal jewellery. The collection features mostly one-of-a-kind and distinctive pieces. Additionally, I offer restringing services and can create custom-made pieces as well.
Circle of Friends
I have been a fan of Circle of Friends for years. I can't even remember how many. I have quite a few statement pieces in my home from Circle of Friends, and here is one of them below.
You might like to read my story: Considering a Sea Change
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