Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest: Where River, Ocean and Wilderness Meet

Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest form one of the Great Lakes region’s most enchanting coastal escapes—an easy two‑and‑a‑half‑hour drive north of Sydney yet a world away from the everyday. Here, the Myall River winds gently between two relaxed townships, feeding the vast Myall Lakes system and setting the scene for a holiday defined by nature, tranquillity and slow‑paced coastal living.

The two towns are linked by the iconic Singing Bridge, named for the soft, melodic hum created when coastal winds sweep through its railings. Cross it and you’ll feel the shift instantly: from the riverside charm of Tea Gardens to the laid‑back surf culture of Hawks Nest, each with its own personality but sharing the same pristine environment.

This is a place where dolphins glide through estuary waters, koalas doze in gum trees, and secluded beaches stretch for kilometres. Whether you’re seeking adventure, wildlife encounters or simply a quiet corner to unwind, Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest offer a premium coastal escape shaped by nature’s finest elements.

Why Visit Tea Gardens & Hawks Nest

• Unspoiled natural beauty across river, ocean, forest and lakes
• Abundant wildlife, including a resident koala colony
• Outdoor adventure from bushwalking to deep‑sea fishing
• A peaceful, uncrowded atmosphere ideal for couples, families and nature lovers
• Access to Myall Lakes National Park, one of Australia’s largest coastal lake systems

Things to Do

Explore the Myall Lakes
Houseboating is one of the region’s signature experiences. Drift across calm, glassy waters, anchor in hidden coves and wake to birdsong echoing through the forest. With countless secluded spots, it’s easy to find your own private slice of paradise.

Meet the Local Wildlife
Hawks Nest is home to a thriving koala colony, offering rare opportunities to see these iconic animals in their natural habitat. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for sightings. Dolphins are also frequent visitors to the river and offshore waters.

Discover Broughton Island
Sitting just off the coast of Hawks Nest, Broughton Island is part of Myall Lakes National Park and a haven for divers, anglers and bushwalkers. Its rugged cliffs, sheltered bays and rich marine life make it a favourite for deep‑sea fishing and underwater exploration.

Beach Time at Its Best
From the surf‑friendly waves of Bennetts Beach to the calm shallows of Jimmy’s Beach, the coastline offers something for every style of beachgoer. Long walks, sunrise swims and picnics with a sea breeze are all part of the rhythm here.

Bushwalking & Camping
The surrounding national parks are laced with walking trails that lead through coastal forests, wetlands and dunes. Campers will find peaceful sites where the night sky glows with stars and the soundtrack is pure nature.

How to Get There

Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest sit on the southern edge of the Great Lakes region, around 2.5 hours north of Sydney via the M1 Pacific Motorway. The drive is smooth and scenic, passing through rolling countryside and coastal landscapes. For those arriving from Newcastle, the journey takes just under an hour.

Best Time to Visit

The region is a year‑round destination, but each season brings its own charm:

• Summer: Perfect for beach days, boating and long evenings by the water
• Autumn: Mild weather ideal for bushwalking and wildlife spotting
• Winter: Quiet, peaceful and great for cosy escapes with crisp coastal air
• Spring: Wildflowers bloom and koala activity increases

A Coastal Escape That Stays With You

Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest offer a rare blend of serenity and adventure—where you can spend one moment kayaking through still waters and the next strolling along a windswept beach. It’s a destination that invites you to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect with the natural world.