Tasman National Park

Jagged sea cliffs, towering dolerite columns, and the deep blue of the Tasman Sea collide dramatically at Tasman National Park, a wild coastal pocket on the southeastern tip of Tasmania. Just an hour's drive from Hobart, this park delivers some of the island's most spectacular coastal scenery, with the Tasman Arch, the Blowhole, and the Tessellated Pavement offering geological wonders at every turn. Whether you're cruising past the soaring Cape Pillar or walking the Three Capes Track, the raw power of the ocean is ever-present.

Highlights & What to See

• Three Capes Track: A world-class multi-day walk that hugs the coast, offering jaw-dropping views of Cape Hauy, Cape Pillar, and Cape Raoul. Book well in advance.
• Tasman Arch & Devil's Kitchen: Two dramatic rock formations carved by the sea – easy short walks from the car park, perfect for a quick yet stunning stop.
• The Blowhole: Watch the ocean surge through a narrow chasm, sending spray high into the air (especially impressive after rough weather).
• Tessellated Pavement: A natural rock platform fractured into geometric slabs, revealing ancient sedimentary patterns at low tide.
• Waterfall Bay & Fortescue Bay: A serene beach and campground at Fortescue Bay, while Waterfall Bay offers a short coastal walk with a cascading waterfall.
• Port Arthur Historic Site: Combining a visit to the park with the poignant UNESCO-listed convict settlement is a must for history buffs.

Suggested Time to Spend

If you're short on time, a half-day drive from Hobart lets you hit the main lookouts – Tasman Arch, Devil's Kitchen, and the Blowhole – plus a short walk at Waterfall Bay. For the full experience, allow two to three days if you're tackling the Three Capes Track (booked independently or as a guided tour). Day-trippers can easily combine a morning at the park with an afternoon exploring Port Arthur, just 15 minutes away.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Port Arthur: The historic convict settlement sits right on the park's doorstep – allow at least half a day to explore the site and its harbour cruises.
• Hobart: The vibrant capital is the gateway to the park, with Salamanca Market, MONA, and excellent dining – base yourself here for easy access.
• Bruny Island: A short ferry ride from Kettering (south of Hobart), Bruny offers pristine beaches, gourmet produce, and the Neck lookout – pair with a Tasman Peninsula trip for a longer itinerary.
• Freycinet National Park: About a 2.5-hour drive north, Freycinet's Wineglass Bay and granite peaks make a classic Tasmanian road-top combination with the Tasman Peninsula.

Please check official sources for current details.