Walks and Hikes in Hawks Nest

Immerse yourself in national parks

Hawks Nest places you right near some of the state's most impressive national parks. There's a track for almost every level of fitness but you will need a car to access the trails. The good news is they're only a short drive away, so pack a picnic and don't forget your water bottle.

Myall Lakes National Park

If you're looking for a park with lots to offer, you can't skip Myall Lakes National Park. It's where native bushland meets one of NSW's biggest systems of coastal lakes, great for kayaking, fishing and walking. Follow the Myall River north, and you'll find some incredible trails you might want to check out when you're here:

• Mungo Walking Track: The Mungo Rainforest Walk is an easy 1.2 km shaded loop that takes about 20-30 minutes, ideal for everyone, especially families with young children and older walkers. Explore a rare pocket of littoral rainforest near Mungo Brush campground that has a distinct, humid atmosphere that feels completely different to the surrounding eucalypts.
• Dark Point Aboriginal Place: This is where you'll find the Dark Point Walking Track (Little Gibber), a moderate 45-60 min 2km return track into a significant Aboriginal archaeological site. Cross over low dunes and sandy heath to reach a headland overlooking the ocean, where ancient shell middens can be seen along the beach and dune edges. It's one of the best Hawks Nest bush walks for history buffs and anyone interested in First Nations heritage.
• Tamboi Walking Track: A moderate, but largely flat, 1.5 to 2.5 hr, 5.6km return hike or bike through diverse scrub tracing the edge of Bombah Broadwater. See cabbage palms and paperbarks, migratory birds, and other flora and fauna on your journey. Birdwatchers, cyclists and keen walkers will love this one!

Gir-um-bit National Park

Covering 580 hectares, Gir-um-bit National Park is a small, but ecologically significant place protecting coastal wetlands, heathland, and waterway habitats around Swan Bay and Tanilba Bay on the southern shores of Port Stephens. It's a quietly rewarding destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers who want to get off the beaten track.

Karuah National Park

Karuah National Park is a rugged, multi-use park set on the Karuah River, a few clicks inland from Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens. Known for its mountain biking and 4WD touring fire trails, it's a brilliant option for thrill seekers and adventurous families wanting to ditch the lazy beach days for something more active. There's also kayaking, canoeing, birdwatching and fishing to keep you occupied.

Tomaree National Park

Sitting on the southern shores of Port Stephens on Worimi Country, Tomaree National Park is one of the most diverse and well-developed national parks in the area. A mere 1 hour from Hawks Nest, it offers 27 km of hiking along the scenic Tomaree Coastal Walk, as well as access to patrolled beaches and historical sites, like the WWII-era Fort Tomaree gun emplacements at Tomaree Headlands.

It's also home to the short but steep Tomaree Head Summit Walk, one of the best places on the mid-north coast for whale watching, and spotting sea eagles and koalas.

Walks on the ocean's edge

Yacaaba Headland

One of the most captivating headland walks in the area is the Yacaaba Headland Walking Track. Walk along the sand dunes of Bennetts Beach up to the informal lookout with coastal views of Port Stephens Bay and Nelson Bay. It's one of the more challenging Hawks Nest walks, so make sure you bring water, sun protection and snacks.

Broughton Island

A Broughton Island day trip won't disappoint – this natural wonder is only accessible by boat, but it's well worth the visit. Bring a snorkel to see local marine life in action and, if you're up for it, consider booking a campsite to spend the night amidst seabird colonies. While it's not one of the primary Hawks Nest Walks, it's a beautiful place to set up and explore for something a little different and more secluded.