The locality is about 22 kilometres (14 mi) north-east of the town of Latrobe.

Nearby is the small town of Port Sorell and locality of Shearwater.

Hawley Beach is known for its minute red sand crabs, hooded plovers and reasonable fishing.

[2] Hawley Beach Post Office opened on 2 November 1965 and closed in 1992.

[5] Route C708 (Alexander Street) provides access to the locality, terminating at the southern boundary.