Great Eastern Drive

The Great Eastern Drive is Tasmania's premier coastal touring route, unfurling along the wild, sun-drenched east coast from Orford to St Helens. It's a 176-kilometre journey of dramatic sea cliffs, turquoise bays, and laid-back seaside villages, where the pace slows to the rhythm of the swell. This is a road trip for lovers of fresh oysters, white-sand beaches, and the kind of raw, elemental beauty that makes you pull over every ten minutes.

Highlights & What to See

• Freycinet National Park – Home to the iconic Wineglass Bay, a perfect arc of white sand. Hike to the lookout for the classic view, then descend to swim in crystalline waters.
• Bay of Fires – A 50-kilometre stretch of dazzling beaches, clear aqua water, and huge granite boulders splashed with orange lichen. The northern end near Binalong Bay is especially photogenic.
• Maria Island – Take the ferry from Triabunna for a day of cycling among wombats, kangaroos, and convict-era ruins. No cars allowed—just pure wildlife and history.
• Bicheno – A charming fishing village with a blowhole, a penguin parade at dusk, and some of the best lobster in Tasmania.
• Coles Bay – The gateway to Freycinet, with a laid-back vibe, kayak hire, and sunset views over the Hazards mountain range.
• St Helens – The northern gateway, known for its scallop pies and access to the Bay of Fires. A great spot to stock up for a picnic.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least three to four days to do the drive justice. This allows time for a full day exploring Freycinet National Park, a day on Maria Island, and a relaxed meander through the Bay of Fires. If you're short on time, a two-day blitz from Launceston can hit the highlights—Wineglass Bay and the Bay of Fires—but you'll be rushing. The drive itself is only two hours from end to end, but the pull-overs, walks, and wildlife spotting will eat up your clock in the best way.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Launceston – Start or end your trip in Tasmania's second city, with its stunning Cataract Gorge, vibrant food scene, and historic architecture.
• Hobart – A 2.5-hour drive south from Orford; combine the Great Eastern Drive with the state capital for markets, MONA, and kunanyi/Mount Wellington.
• Tam Valley – After St Helens, head inland through the Tam Valley for waterfalls, rainforest, and the charming town of Derby—a world-class mountain biking hub.
• Port Arthur – From Orford, it's a scenic hour-and-a-half drive south to the historic penal settlement on the Tasman Peninsula.

Please check official sources for current details.