Jimmy's Beach is a stunning 5-kilometre arc of white sand stretching from the mouth of the Myall River to Yacaaba Headland, nestled in the sheltered waters of Port Stephens. Crowned Australia's calmest beach for its exceptionally still, crystal-clear waters, it offers a dreamlike snorkeling environment protected from Pacific swells and northeast winds. The gently sloping, seagrass-covered sandy seabed makes for easy shore-entry snorkeling, with excellent visibility ideal for spotting rays, fish, and the rich estuarine life of the nearby marine park. This tranquil bay is as safe as it is beautiful — perfect for families and snorkelers of all abilities.
Jimmy's Beach - Hawks Nest (snorkeling)
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Wave Height 0.6 mSwell Period 11 sWind Speed 0.8 knPrecipitation 0.0 mmTidal Phase slack
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
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Moderate risk: Bull shark breeding area nearby
The Myall River estuary nearby is a known bull shark breeding area. Avoid swimming near the river mouth, especially after rain or at dawn/dusk.
Low risk: Dingoes on beach
Dingoes are known to frequent the beach and surrounding campground; keep a safe distance and never feed them.
Low risk: Unpatrolled beach
Jimmys Beach is not regularly patrolled by lifeguards, though it is patrolled during peak holiday periods. Swim with caution.
Low risk: Limited facilities
No public toilets or amenities directly at the beach; nearest facilities are at the Reflections Holiday Park playground area.
Low risk: Boat traffic near river mouth
The western end of the beach near the Myall River entrance sees boat traffic. Snorkelers should stay clear of the channel.
Low risk: Seagrass and marine stingers
The seabed is covered in seagrass below low water which can hide stingrays and also occasionally attract jellyfish in warmer months.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
4 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Jimmy's Beach runs along The Boulevarde in Hawks Nest, NSW. From the Pacific Highway, take the turn-off to Hawks Nest via Tea Gardens, crossing the Singing Bridge over the Myall River. Follow the main road into Hawks Nest township, then turn onto The Boulevarde which parallels the entire beach.
Parking & facilities
Street parking is available along The Boulevarde at several access points. There are also small car parks at the southern end near Yacaaba Headland and near the Myall River mouth.
parkingtoiletspicnic_tables
Free entry. No fees for beach access.
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Gallery ┬╖ 4 photos
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports