There are many destination spots available to travelers during the summer months that enjoy pristine sandy beaches and crystal clear waters. But what do those same people do if they find that their vacation is in the winter months and they still long for the warmth of a beach. They head to the Tea Gardens in New South Wales, Australia where the shores are open from October to April for swimming and all water sports. When the Untied States is having their winter, Australia is experiencing their summer.

This area of Australia is next to the Hawks Nest and connected with the world’s only ‘singing’ bridge. This bridge is so named for the wild winds that whip through the rails and makes an ominous sound as passengers travel across it. The towns are near the Myall River which empties into the Myall Lake system that is both striking and majestic as the townspeople have describe it.

The main attraction to this area is the dolphin-watching excursions which leave the harbor several times a day. Many of these cruises allow their passengers to safely swim with the dolphins in their natural habitat alongside a trained guide. With these trips to the dolphin-rich waters, it is not mandatory that someone get in the water to swim with the mammals, watching and taking pictures is more than alright with the captain and crew.

The adjacent Hawks Nest region is home to the area’s largest Koala colony where they can be seen and enjoyed doing what they naturally do. There are other natural habitats of migratory birds and lots of fish near this area. Fishing is one of the regions strong draws for tourists.

For people who enjoy hiking and the great outdoors there is bushwalking and biking in the national wildlife areas that surround the great lakes. There is kayaking and boating, swimming and surfing for those who love the water and just about anything outdoors that someone would want to do.

For evening or indoor activities there is ten pin bowling and squash for those who like their game with a little more roughness. And for those who are less ‘sporty’ there are gambling and other less strenuous activities at the nearby club. This club offers a game show style entertainment and live bands on the weekends for all to enjoy, BBQ and a coffeehouse style cafe.

Each weekend in this region of sun, sand and forestry features a new and exciting market that showcases some of the areas best in the locally grown produce and handcrafted products, some from a local art school. There is everything from the farmers markets to handcraft bazaars that sell their wares to locals and tourists. Anyone who likes to wonder through the miles of booths and shop for that something special will find they are in heaven here.

Surrounding Tea Gardens and Hawks Nest is the Forest/Tuncurry, Bulahdelah and Pacific Palm regions. Each offers a unique perspective on the lands rich forestry and the beautiful seashores. Some have secluded retreats for more private getaways while others have many shops and restaurants for those who enjoy a more public style vacation.