On the Water

Explore the Myall River with Ezy Kayaks Looking for a fun and easy adventure during your stay in Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest? Ezy Kayaks offers the perfect way to explore the stunning Myall River at your... own pace. Located in Hawks Nest, just over the Singing Bridge from Tea Gardens, this is one of the most popular activities for visitors looking to experience the natural beauty of the area. No experience? No worries! Their self-guided kayak hire is great for beginners and a fantastic way for families, couples, or solo adventurers to get out on the water. Paddle through mangrove-lined waterways, explore hidden islands, and keep an eye out for local wildlife—including dolphins! You’ll even pass by historic shipwrecks along the way. For those after a longer adventure, takeaway kayaks can be arranged for overnight camping trips. And if you're visiting from Nelson Bay, simply hop on the ferry and ask to be dropped off at Hawks Nest Wharf—Ezy Kayaks is just a short 3-minute walk away. Make the most of your holiday in Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest—get out on the water with Ezy Kayaks! 🚣‍♂️🌿🐬

Broughton Island lies in the Myall Lakes National Park, part of the Barrington Coast. Accessible only by boat, enjoy a day trip from Nelson Bay or sail your own. Daytrippers cherish its stunning beaches,... suitable in any weather. Pack a hamper for a beach picnic, swim, and snorkel in clear waters. Explore endless water activities, from swimming and fishing to boating, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

Established for a decade, Tea Gardens Boatshed Restaurant now features a licensed cafe and restaurant accommodating 60 guests. Open daily for breakfast and lunch, expanding to dinner Wednesday to Saturday... (off-peak), and seven nights during Christmas and Easter. View their latest menu here; https://www.teagardensboatshed.com/hungry Looking for boat hire? Navigate the Myall River at your leisure or drop anchor for fishing – our boats offer an excellent experience. Before you set off, we provide a briefing on easy navigation, a map to avoid getting lost, and life jackets if you fancy a swim. No boat license required! Enjoy our boats during restaurant daytime hours, currently from 7:30 am to 4 pm.

Tea Gardens BBQ Boats is a local family owned business established in 2019. We are located an easy one hour drive north of Newcastle or just 40 minutes from Newcastle airport.  We provide you... the opportunity to explore the picturesque Myall River at your own pace on our custom designed, pontoon-style BBQ party boats. The Pickled Pelican is the first boat in our fleet and carries up to 10 passengers. The Pickled Pelican has an outdoor kitchen  with four burner BBQ grill plate, side burner, rotisserie and sink. A private full size toilet and bluetooth stereo system are also on board for your use.  Please note seafood and nut products can/have been used by patrons on the BBQ plate.  BOAT HIRE RATES Cruise Options Mini - 3 Hours - $297 Midi - 5 Hours - $385 Deluxe - 8 Hours - $440 Custom/longer hours also available with boats returned at least 1 hr before sunset (subject to change depending on the season) - please call us to discuss this option as custom rates are subject to negotiation.      **plus $100 security deposit, refundable subject to the Terms and Conditions contained in TGBB's Boat Hire Agreement. Hire rates include 8.5kg LPG gas bottle, BBQ tools, 25L fuel, water for amenities, adult life jackets, chairs, table, toilet paper and garbage bin liners. BOOK NOW www.tgbb.com.au or call 0413 345 000         

Embark on daily ferry excursions aboard the YKNOT Catamaran between Nelson Bay and Tea Gardens, seven days a week. Enjoy the spacious deck, remarkable stability, and panoramic views of scenic Port Stephens.... Perfect for cruising, you might even spot dolphins! Refresh with on-board tea and coffee.   Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure. Bookings are ESSENTIAL for all services. Book your seats online or call Teresa on 0411 388 380 to book and pay over the phone. For Nelson Bay departures. Head to Dock C, D’Albora Marina at 6 Teramby Road Nelson Bay. Dock C is located at the gangway next to the blue Bay Booking Office. For Tea Gardens departures. Ferry wharf is located at 93 Marine Drive, across from Tea Gardens Hotel. Please arrive 15 minutes before departure. Journey is 1 hour each way (30 mins across the bay, 30 mins up the Myall River). Call 0411 388 380 to book. 

Whether you would like to paddle for a few hours or the whole day, if you would like a double or a single kayak, a sit-on or a sit-in kayak, or a stand up paddle board, Lazy Paddles can get you on the... water. We launch into the Myall River at Tea Gardens or we can deliver a kayak or SUP to the location of your choice (delivery charges may apply). Paddle with dolphins. Explore the mangrove forests of the Myall River or leisurely cruise through Myall Lakes National Park. See amazing bird and marine life. Immerse yourself in nature. Take a picnic breakfast or lunch. Bring your camera and fishing rod. Paddle as hard or as easy as you like. Kayaks require only a few centimetres of water. With a kayak you can reach beautiful places that most watercraft cannot, and without the noise pollution and destructive wake associated with motor-boats.