East Coast Tasmania

Stretching from the white-sand beaches of the Bay of Fires to the rugged cliffs of Tasman National Park, East Coast Tasmania is a blissful stretch of coastline that feels a world away from the mainland. This is a place where you can hike through coastal heath, feast on fresh seafood, and swim in turquoise bays without the crowds. The region is a highlight of any Tasmanian road trip, offering a perfect blend of nature, food, and laid-back coastal charm.

Highlights & What to See

• Bay of Fires Conservation Area – Walk along pristine white sands and clear blue waters, with dramatic orange-lichen-covered granite boulders providing a stunning contrast. Binalong Bay is the perfect entry point for a swim or a kayak.
• Freycinet National Park & Wineglass Bay – One of Tasmania's most iconic views, the crescent of white sand at Wineglass Bay is best seen from the lookout on the 1.5-hour return hike, or by taking a scenic flight for a bird's-eye perspective.
• Douglas-Apsley National Park – A lesser-known gem with lush rainforest and the Apsley Waterhole, a perfect spot for a refreshing dip after a short walk.
• Maria Island National Park – A wildlife haven reachable by ferry from Triabunna. Cycle around the island to see wombats, kangaroos, and the ruins of a convict settlement.
• Bicheno – This charming fishing village offers penguin tours at dusk (free to view on the foreshore), excellent seafood at the Lobster Shack, and the stunning Blowhole and Foreshore Walk.
• St Helens – The gateway to the Bay of Fires, with a great food scene including fresh oysters from Melshell Oysters and the famous St Helens Bakery.

Suggested Time to Spend

To truly experience the East Coast, allow at least 3 to 4 days. This gives you time to explore Freycinet thoroughly, spend a day on Maria Island, and enjoy the coastal walks and seafood stops along the way. A week would allow for more relaxed days, including a scenic flight over Wineglass Bay and a kayak trip in the Bay of Fires. The drive from Hobart to Launceston via the East Coast can be done in 3 days, but you'll be rushing – better to take your time and soak up the coastal vibe.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Hobart – Start or end your trip in Tasmania's capital, exploring Salamanca Market, MONA, and Mount Wellington.
• Tasman Peninsula – South of the East Coast, this dramatic peninsula offers the Port Arthur Historic Site, the Tessellated Pavement, and the Remarkable Cave.
• Launceston – The northern gateway, with its Tamar Valley wine region and Cataract Gorge, is a perfect complement to a coastal itinerary.
• Central Highlands – Inland from the East Coast, this region offers wild landscapes, trout fishing, and the stunning Walls of Jerusalem National Park.
• Bruny Island – While not on the East Coast, a detour from Hobart to Bruny offers incredible food, wildlife, and the iconic Neck Lookout.

Please check official sources for current details.