Ocean Beach

Ocean Beach is a wild, windswept stretch of sand on Tasmania's remote West Coast, offering a raw and untamed coastal experience. Unlike the sheltered beaches of the east, this 30-kilometre expanse faces the full force of the Southern Ocean, with roaring surf, drifting sand, and dramatic skies. It's a place for solitary walks, beachcombing, and feeling the power of nature — not for swimming, as the currents are dangerous. The beach is accessible via a short drive from Strahan, and its isolation is part of its appeal.

Highlights & What to See

• Ocean Beach itself — Walk the endless sands, watch the thundering waves, and keep an eye out for the occasional pod of dolphins or migrating whales. The beach is also a nesting site for hooded plovers, so watch your step.
• Sunset views — Ocean Beach is famous for its spectacular sunsets; the sun sinks directly into the Southern Ocean, painting the sky in fiery hues. Bring a windbreaker and a thermos.
• Strahan — Just 10 minutes away, this historic harbour town is the gateway to the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Visit the Sarah Island historic site or take a cruise on Macquarie Harbour.
• Henty Dunes — A short drive north, these massive sand dunes offer a surreal landscape perfect for sandboarding (bring your own board or rent in Strahan).
• West Coast Wilderness Railway — Departing from Strahan, this heritage steam train rides through rainforest and gorges, offering a unique perspective on the region's mining history.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend 1–2 hours walking the beach and watching the sunset. If you're staying in Strahan, you can easily combine a beach visit with a morning cruise and an afternoon at the dunes. For a relaxed pace, allow half a day to explore Ocean Beach and the nearby attractions. The beach is best visited in late afternoon for the sunset light.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Strahan — The closest town, with accommodation, dining, and tours to Macquarie Harbour and Sarah Island.
• Macquarie Harbour — Take a boat tour to see the salmon farms, the entrance to the Gordon River, and the haunting ruins of Sarah Island.
• Frenchmans Cap — A challenging multi-day hike for experienced bushwalkers, offering stunning alpine views from the iconic quartzite peak.
• Queenstown — A historic mining town with a stark, lunar-like landscape; visit the Galley Museum and the Iron Blow Lookout.
• Lake St Clair — Australia's deepest lake, about 1.5 hours' drive from Strahan, with walking trails and the start of the Overland Track.

Please check official sources for current details.