Tea Gardens is a small township adjacent the northern head of Port Stephens. It is separated from Hawks Nest by the the majestic Myall River, which runs from the Myall Lakes and empties into Port Stephens. In 1974 the two small, sleepy townships were joined by the Singing Bridge, named because it "sings" like a wind harp when the strong south-westerlies blow. The local economy historically revolved around seafood and timber. Today tourism and retirement are the two main "industries" with people seeking this quiet town, well off the Pacific Highway, as a delightful sunny retreat. It is popular for fishing, surfing, windsurfing and kayaking.