Mount William National Park

Mount William National Park, tucked into the far north-east corner of Tasmania, is a rugged coastal wilderness that feels gloriously remote. This is a place of windswept beaches, granite peaks, and heathland that explodes into wildflower colour in spring. The park is named after the 216-metre Mount William, but the real draw is the untamed coastline and the chance to spot wombats, wallabies, and sea eagles. It's a perfect addition to a Tasmanian self-drive itinerary, offering solitude and raw natural beauty.

Highlights & What to See

• Eddystone Point Lighthouse – A striking pink-granite lighthouse built in 1889, perched on a headland with sweeping ocean views. The short walk to the lighthouse is a must.
• Stumpys Bay – A stunning white-sand beach that stretches for kilometres, often empty. Great for a long walk or a picnic, but beware of strong currents – swimming is not advised.
• Mount William Summit Walk – A 2.5 km return hike to the summit for panoramic views over the park and the Furneaux Group of islands. The heathland here is spectacular in spring (October–November) when it's carpeted with boronia, trigger plants, and orchids.
• Wombat spotting – The park is one of the best places in Tasmania to see wombats, especially around dusk near the campgrounds and along the roads.
• Deep Gully Forest Reserve – A short detour into the park's interior where you can see towering blue gums and tree ferns, a contrast to the coastal heath.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend half a day to a full day here, combining a walk to Eddystone Point and a hike up Mount William. If you're camping, an overnight stay lets you experience the park at dawn and dusk when wildlife is most active. For self-drivers, the park is a rewarding stop on a loop from Launceston or as part of a trip to the Bay of Fires.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Bay of Fires Conservation Area – Just south of Mount William, this stretch of coast is famous for its orange-lichen-covered granite boulders and turquoise waters. The Bay of Fires Lodge Walk is a multi-day hiking highlight.
• St Helens – The largest town on the east coast, with a good range of accommodation, eateries, and access to the Bay of Fires. Try the fresh seafood at The Gulch.
• Bridport – A charming seaside town with a golf course and safe swimming beaches, about an hour's drive from the park.
• Flinders Island – Accessible by a short flight or ferry from Bridport, this island in the Furneaux Group offers more remote hiking, birdwatching, and a strong local food scene.
• Launceston – Tasmania's second city, about 2.5 hours' drive away, is a great base for exploring the north-east and offers Cataract Gorge, the Tamar Valley wine region, and excellent cafés.

Please check official sources for current details.