Photo: Jane6592 / CC BY-SA 4.0
Wineglass Bay Lookout is the quintessential Freycinet experience, offering one of Tasmania's most photographed panoramas. The iconic view over the perfect arc of white sand and turquoise water framed by granite peaks is every bit as stunning in person as it is on postcards. This short but steep walk rewards you with a perspective that captures the wild beauty of Freycinet National Park.
Highlights & What to See
- The Lookout View: The main event — a sweeping vista over Wineglass Bay, the Hazards mountain range, and the deep blue of the Tasman Sea. Time your visit for late afternoon when the light softens and the bay glows.
- Wineglass Bay Walk: The 1.5 km (one-way) track from the car park climbs steadily over granite steps but is well-maintained. The reward is the lookout, but if you have energy, continue down to the beach itself for a swim or a picnic.
- Hazards Beach Circuit: For a longer adventure, combine the Wineglass Bay Lookout with the Hazards Beach track, creating a loop that takes you through diverse coastal heath and past secluded coves.
- Wildlife Spotting: Keep an eye out for wallabies, pademelons, and a variety of birdlife, including the endemic green rosella and wedge-tailed eagles soaring overhead.
Suggested Time to Spend
Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for the return walk to the lookout, including time to soak in the view and take photos. If you plan to descend to Wineglass Bay beach, budget 3 to 4 hours total. The walk is best done in the morning when the sun is behind you, illuminating the bay, or in the late afternoon for golden light and fewer crowds. Most visitors combine this with a half-day exploring other Freycinet highlights.
Nearby Areas Worth Combining
- Freycinet National Park: Explore other walks like the Friendly Beaches, Cape Tourville, or the challenging Mount Amos for a different perspective of the Hazards.
- Coles Bay: The gateway town to Freycinet, with a general store, cafes, and the famous Freycinet Marine Farm for fresh oysters and seafood.
- Wineglass Bay: The beach itself — accessible by a longer walk from the lookout or by boat tour — offers pristine sands and crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and kayaking.
- Bicheno: A short drive south, known for its blowhole, penguin tours, and excellent seafood. Great for a meal or overnight stop.
Please check official sources for current details.
Note: opening hours, prices and booking requirements change often — please check official sources for current details.
Explore more
Image credits
- Wineglass Bay — Jane6592 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Freycinet National Park — Jane6592 / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Coles Bay — Tirin aka Takver - www.takver.com / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Hazards Beach — Nick Ang / CC BY-SA 4.0
- Cape Tourville — VirtualSteve / CC BY-SA 3.0
- Bicheno — taken by uploader / Public domain