Photo: Srikumar Venugopal / CC BY-SA 2.0
Mt William National Park is a wild coastal gem on Tasmania’s northeast tip, where untamed beaches meet granite peaks and abundant wildlife. This is a place for solitude and raw nature – think red lichen-covered boulders, turquoise coves, and the chance to spot Forester kangaroos at dawn. It’s less visited than Freycinet, but just as stunning, offering a true off-the-beaten-track experience.
Highlights & What to See
- Bay of Fires – The park’s northern section boasts the famous orange-hued granite boulders against dazzling white sand and clear blue water, perfect for photography and beachcombing.
- Mt William Summit Walk – A short but steep 1.5 km climb rewarded with panoramic views over the coast and the Furneaux Group islands.
- Eddystone Point Lighthouse – A striking pink granite lighthouse built in 1889, with a lovely picnic area and views over the bay.
- Wildlife spotting – Keep an eye out for Forester kangaroos, wombats, echidnas, and a huge variety of seabirds along the coastline.
- Anson’s Bay and the Gardens – Quiet swimming spots and sheltered coves ideal for a peaceful paddle or picnic.
Suggested Time to Spend
Plan for at least a full day to explore the park’s highlights. If you’re keen on walking, two days allows you to tackle the longer coastal trails and really soak in the atmosphere. Camp overnight at one of the basic campgrounds to experience the incredible starry skies and dawn wildlife activity.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Wineglass Bay – Iconic crescent-shaped beach within Freycinet National Park, a 90-minute drive south, perfect for a classic Tasmanian bushwalk and kayaking.
- Bicheno – Charming coastal town with a blowhole, penguin tours, and excellent seafood, just south of Freycinet.
- St Helens – Gateway to the Bay of Fires, offering great fishing, boat trips, and the famous St Helens Point walk.
- Launceston – Tasmania’s second city, around 2.5 hours west, with Cataract Gorge, Tamar Valley wineries, and historic architecture.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
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Image credits
- Wineglass Bay — Jane6592 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Bicheno — taken by uploader / Public domain
- St Helens — Archives New Zealand / CC BY 2.0
- Bay of Fires — Diego Delso / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Launceston — File:Launie (cropped).JPG : User: (WT-shared) Plug at wts wikivoyage derivative work: Georgfotoart / Public domain
- Freycinet National Park — Jane6592 / CC BY-SA 4.0