Things to Do in Hawks Nest

Table of Contents

Discover Hawks Nest: Your ultimate things to do guide

Between Port Stephens Bay, the Pacific Ocean and neighbouring Tea Gardens, Hawks Nest is the gateway to the Barrington Coast and a laid-back beach town on the Mid North Coast NSW. A short drive north from Newcastle, it's known for its blend of beautiful beaches, coastal forests and lakes.

If you're planning a trip here, you'll love this – Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens are best bundled together, giving you two destinations in one. Here's some inspiration on things to do in Hawks Nest for your next long weekend or extended holiday.

Outdoor activities

Adventure through Tea Gardens

For things to do near Hawks Nest, hop on the ferry to Tea Gardens on the opposite bank of the Myall River, and the two towns are often treated as one destination. Home to art galleries, elegant shops and great food options, it's well worth dedicating some of your getaway to while you're in Hawks Nest.

Surf, sand and salt air

A classic Aussie day at the beach is a must-do while you're here. Our top picks are Bennetts Beach (aka Hawks Nest Beach, the main beach) – a long, sweeping stretch of white sand, consistently rated one of the best beaches in the area – and Jimmy's Beach, a sheltered bay on the Myall River side, perfect for small kids, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

For a wilder, closer-to-nature option, make your way to Treachery Beach. Accessible via Myall Lakes National Park, it's a more isolated stretch for those wanting to escape the crowds, especially if you like to carve it up and surf.

Walks, bikes and hikes

One of the best things to do at Hawks Nest with kids is to enjoy one of the trails or pathways designed to get you exploring on two feet. A must-see is the Yacaaba Headland Walking Track, which climbs the headland at the northern tip of Hawks Nest and offers sweeping views across the coast, Broughton Island, and the entrance to Port Stephens.

If you've got the kids in tow, check out the Singing Bridge bike path – technically a walk/ride – that takes you over the distinctive cable-stay footbridge that connects Hawks Nest to Tea Gardens.

Credit: Ambassador Wandering Tribe of Five

Or if you'd like to experience one of the most significant archaeological sites in NSW, visit Dark Point Aboriginal Place Walking Track (within Myall Lakes National Park). It leads through coastal heath to ancient Aboriginal shell middens – a short but meaningful walk with interpretive signage.

Local attractions

Broughton Island

Take a boat or join a cruise out to this uninhabited island off the coast. Broughton Island is a Marine Protected Area only accessible by boat, with exceptional snorkelling, clear water, Little Penguins (Australia's smallest penguin), and fur seals. Pack a picnic to make a day of it, and you can even camp overnight (but book ahead as there are limited spots).

Myall Lakes National Park

If being out on the water all day sounds like heaven, then make a point of spending some solid time at Myall Lakes National Park. With 40km of beaches and one of the largest coastal lake systems in the country, it's the perfect spot for fishing, kayaking, and snorkelling.

Singing Bridge

One of the more quirky attractions and fun things to do at Hawks Nest, the Singing Bridge is where you cross the Myall River to get to Tea Gardens. Its railings become a wind harp and sing a somewhat mournful song when it's breezy.

Yacaaba Head

Yacaaba Head is the largest headland of the bay called Port Stephens, and a great place to go for amazing views of the bay, ocean and surrounding headlands. You can access the walking track from the southern end of Bennetts Beach, a magical sunrise spot with coffee in hand.

Dining and nightlife in Hawks Nest

Breakfast and brunch

Most of the food options are over the singing bridge in Tea Gardens, but there are a few local faves to bookmark. Nest Cafe's friendly staff dishes up breakfast classics as well as some lunch options, like burgers. And Kelly's Famous Bakehouse has all your pastry and baked goods sorts (plus really great coffee!).

Then, over in Tea Gardens, you’ll find more options.

Lunch and dinner

For a unique experience, try the Tea Gardens BBQ Boats, where you can take your food out on the water for a fun day of swimming, grilling and sun. But make sure you book in advance, especially during summer school holidays (December/January).

Sando's Cafe and Restaurant in Hawks Nest Golf Club is the perfect dinner spot after a long day on the green. There are weeknight specials and all the menu highlights you'd expect from a local golf club.