Bicheno

Perched on Tasmania's sun-drenched east coast, Bicheno is a salty, laid-back fishing town that punches well above its weight for natural wonders and seafood. Think turquoise coves, granite boulders, and a penguin parade that rivals anything on the mainland. This is the kind of place where you pull on a wetsuit to snorkel with seals, then wander up the road for a lobster roll that tastes like the ocean itself. Bicheno is an essential stop on any east-coast Tasmanian road trip, offering a perfect blend of wildlife, coastal walks, and fresh-off-the-boat fare.

Highlights & What to See

• Bicheno Blowhole – At high swell, this granite blowhole erupts with a dramatic roar. Time your visit for a splashy show, and linger for the sunset views over the rock platform.
• Bicheno Penguin Tours – After dusk, join a guided tour to watch little penguins waddle ashore at the Bicheno rookery. A quietly magical encounter that feels like a secret shared with the locals.
• Whalers Lookout Reserve – A short, steep walk rewards you with a panoramic sweep of the coast and the chance to spot migrating whales (May–November).
• Diamond Island Nature Reserve – Accessible at low tide, this granite island is a photographer's dream, with orange-lichen-covered boulders and a peaceful loop walk.
• Bicheno Seafood & Wine – The Lobster Shack serves the best rock lobster in Tasmania, while nearby vineyards like Devil's Corner offer cellar-door tastings with knockout views.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most travellers find two to three days ideal. One day covers the blowhole, a coastal walk, and the penguin tour. A second day allows for a boat trip to nearby Schouten Island or a kayak paddle in Moulting Lagoon. If you're driving the east coast, Bicheno works perfectly as a two-night stopover between Freycinet and the Bay of Fires.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay – A 40-minute drive south, this is Tasmania's most iconic coastal park, with world-class walking tracks and pristine beaches.
• Douglas-Apsley National Park – A 20-minute drive inland, this lesser-known park offers lush rainforest walks and swimming holes away from the crowds.
• Bay of Fires – An hour north, this stretch of white-sand beaches and orange-lichen-covered granite boulders is perfect for a day of beachcombing and photography.
• St Helens – A 30-minute drive north, this fishing hub is the gateway to the Bay of Fires and offers excellent seafood and a working harbour.
• Moulting Lagoon Game Reserve – A 15-minute drive north, this wetland is a birdwatcher's haven, especially for black swans and migratory waterbirds.

Please check official sources for current details.