Spectacular scenery, breathtaking beaches, beautiful bushland and wonderful waterways combine in this pristine paradise.
Yacaaba Head rises dramatically from the southern end of a long, sandy beach and towers over this coastal haven. Its striking presence heralds the remarkable experiences that nature has in store for its visitors. This is Worimi Country.
The Myall Way turns towards the coast and leaves the Pacific Highway and its traffic behind around two and a half hours north of Sydney. A pleasant drive off the beaten track through bushland leads to the secluded twin coastal villages of Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest that lie at the mouth of the Myall River on the northern shores of Port Stephens. There’s something for everyone in this unspoilt natural wonderland – gorgeous beaches, great fishing and boating on the scenic Myall River, bushwalking and camping in the magical Myall Lakes National Park.
Tea Gardens
This idyllic little river-side village is thought to have been named either because of the plentiful tea-trees that line the Myall River, or the Australian Agricultural Company’s unsuccessful attempts to grow tea in 1826. It’s a great base for exploring the endless waterways or to relax at the delightful cafes, restaurants and art gallery that line the riverfront.
Established in 1946, the Tea Gardens Hotel also sits right beside the Myall River. It’s a friendly and cosy venue famous for its ‘Fish and Chip Cone’. This very generous serve is presented in traditional butchers’ paper fashioned into a giant cone shape. Presumably it makes for an easy to eat take-away meal, or can be enjoyed with other meals beside the log fire in the dining room surrounded by beautiful artworks, or in the more casual beer garden adorned with loads of hanging plants.
