Hawks Nest is a charming coastal town located on the Mid-North Coast of New South Wales. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists, thanks to its stunning natural beauty and relaxed coastal lifestyle.
One of the main draws of Hawks Nest is its beautiful beaches. There are two main beaches in the town: Bennetts Beach and Jimmy's Beach. Bennetts Beach is a long, sweeping beach with great surf next to Hawks Nest Holiday Park, while Jimmy's Beach is a quieter, more sheltered spot in the mouth of the Karuah River that's perfect for swimming and kayaking. Both beaches are patrolled during the summer months, making them safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Hawks Nest Golf Club
The Hawks Nest Golf Club is a fantastic golf course just across the road from the Reflections Hawks Nest Holiday Park, it's popular thanks to a challenging layout and stunning natural views.
The course itself is a true gem, with 18 beautifully manicured holes set amidst rolling sand dunes and stunning coastal vistas. It's a challenging course, with plenty of water hazards, bunkers, and tricky greens to test even the most experienced golfers. However, the course is still very playable for golfers of all skill levels, making it a great place for a round with friends or family.
One of the standout features of the Hawks Nest Golf Club is its stunning scenery. As you make your way around the course, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding bushland. It's a truly unique setting that makes for an unforgettable round of golf.
Myall Lakes National Park
Myall River runs from Hawks Nest up north into the Myall Lakes National Parks and makes for a peaceful day out kayaking, boating, or fishing. As you paddle along the river, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding bushland and wildlife, including pelicans, dolphins, and even the occasional eagle. You can rent a kayak from one of the local outfitters and spend a few hours paddling up and down the river, taking in the scenery and exploring the various coves and inlets along the way.
Alternatively, you can drive up towards Seal Rocks and explore the Myall Lakes proper and the various hiking trails like the Dark Point Walking Track that go through the Myall Lakes National Park and to the nearby beaches.
Yacaaba Headland Track
The Yacaaba Headland track is a beautiful walking trail that goes around the headland from Great Mermaid Beach to Jimmys Beach. It's a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, offering stunning views of the surrounding coastline and bushland.
The trail itself is about 6km long and takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and fitness level. It's a moderately challenging trail, with some steep sections and rough terrain, but it's well worth the effort for the breathtaking views you'll experience along the way.
Following the trail, you’ll make your way up Mount Yacaaba, passing through a beautiful forest of eucalyptus trees and other native vegetation. As you climb higher, you'll be treated to stunning views of the coastline, with the sparkling ocean stretching out before you.
At the top of the hill, you'll reach Yacaaba Headland, which is the highest point in Hawks Nest. From there, you'll be able to take in panoramic views of the surrounding area, including the nearby Myall River and Port Stephens. On a clear day, you may even be able to see as far as Newcastle!
Diving around Cabbage Tree Island
1.4km off the coast of Hawks Nest is Cabbage Tree Island, also known as John Gould Nature Reserve. The island itself is home to threatened Gould's petrel and is their only known breeding colony, so visitors are not allowed on the island itself.
However, surrounding the island are waters and rocks populated with all sorts of marine life that are perfect for diving and snorkelling.
Bennetts beach 4WD
Perfect for those who love to 4x4 on the beach, Bennetts Beach offers 4WD access to enjoy the stunning sandy stretches of coastline. Pick up a permit from the local council office and get out and explore.
Where to stay near Hawks Nest
Reflections Hawks Nest is a perfect spot to call home, with its quiet, serene ambience and range of premium cabins, standard cabins and powered sites available.
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The main attractions of Hawks Nest are its beautiful beaches. The town is situated on a peninsula, with the Myall River on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, giving it access to a range of different beaches. Some of the most popular include Jimmy's Beach, Bennett's Beach, and Yacaaba Headland Beach, all of which offer pristine sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views.
The name of the town is believed to have originated from the abundance of hawks that once nested in the nearby sand dunes.
When European settlers first arrived in the area, they noticed that the sand dunes were home to a large number of hawks. These birds of prey were a common sight in the area, and their distinctive calls could often be heard echoing across the landscape.
Over time, the name "Hawks Nest" stuck, and it became the official name of the town.
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