Local Favourite: Tea Gardens Hotel – Family-Friendly Vibes by the Water
- Deb Carr
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
Tucked along the banks of the Myall River, Tea Gardens Hotel is one of those places that truly captures the spirit of our small coastal town. As a Tea Gardens local, I can confidently say it’s more than just a pub—it’s a community hub, a weekend hangout, and a place where locals and visitors alike come to unwind, listen to live music, and enjoy a meal in a relaxed riverside setting.
Tea Gardens Hotel Outdoor Area
The hotel’s outdoor area is one of its biggest drawcards, especially for families. There’s a well-equipped playground where the kids can run wild while parents relax under the shade of tall gums with a cold drink in hand. It’s casual, friendly, and full of the kind of atmosphere that reminds you why you chose to spend time in a laid-back town like this.
Bands and Entertainment
Come the weekend, the beer garden lights up— bands play most Fridays and Saturdays, creating a great atmosphere that blends live music with the sound of the river. Whether you're into acoustic sets, pub rock, or bluesy grooves, the entertainment is reliably good and draws a crowd from both sides of the Singing Bridge.
The restaurant serves classic Aussie pub fare—think hearty burgers, fresh seafood, and generous salads. It’s all reasonably priced and portioned for those who’ve spent the day out on the water or exploring the Myall Lakes National Park. The menu caters for kids and dietary preferences, and there's plenty of seating inside or out, depending on the weather.
Accommodation
For those staying overnight or visiting from further afield, the Tea Gardens Hotel also offers motel-style accommodation just a few steps from the pub itself. Rooms are clean, convenient, and ideal for a short getaway. It’s an easy base to explore the area, especially if you’re planning on catching the ferry to Nelson Bay or heading out to Bennetts Beach.
Whether you’re here for a casual lunch, a few drinks with mates, or looking for a place that welcomes kids, music lovers, and weekend travellers, Tea Gardens Hotel is the kind of local pub that ticks all the boxes. And if you’re lucky enough to be here when the sun sets across the river, you’ll see why it’s a place we locals keep coming back to.
