27 wonderful things to see and do on the east coast of Tasmania
Sleepy Bay. ©
Whether you like to chase waterfalls, go surfing or indulge in the freshest seafood in the world, there are so many alluring things to do on the east coast of Tasmania.
By Esta Pinto.
I’ve included a huge selection for you since you’re probably reading this for Tasmanian east coast inspiration. Look no further. A giant list of ideas of places to see and things to do awaits you below. Enjoy!
Before we begin, I wish to acknowledge Tasmanian Aboriginal people as the traditional owners of this land and pay my respects to Elders past and present, for they hold the memories, the knowledge, and the culture and hopes of Aboriginal Tasmania/lutruwita.
Places to visit.
Mathinna, Tasmania.
Located near Mathinna in Tasmania's northeast, approximately 95 kilometres from Launceston or 37 kilometres from St Helens, this region flies under the radar when it comes to nice things to see and do on the east coast of Tasmania. Here, you’ll find some mind-bogglingly beautiful hikes.
Evercreech Forest Reserve.
There are two astonishing walks here to explore. One is a wet rainforest and the other is a dry forest with huge white gum trees.
White Knights Walk.
In this dry forest, you can see the majestic Evercreech white gums, which tower over 90m. This species of Eucalyptus viminalis claim the title of Australia's tallest. Photos never do justice, of course.
Evercreech Falls Loop.
Evercreech Falls Loop, tree hollow tunnel. ©
Wild fungi in Tasmania. ©
This 40-minute return loop of scenic forest walk along mostly flat forest ground is short but nothing short of stunning. Fungi enthusiasts, keep your eyes open for some magical sights.
For more astonishing beautiful rainforest magic, check out the Tarkine Drive Guide.
Pyengana.
2. St Columba Falls, Pyengana.
St Columba Falls, Pyengana.
River at St Columba Falls Reserve. ©
You’ll feel like you’re in James Cameron’s Avatar when you experience this easy 20-30 minute return walk in St Columba Falls, Pyengana, through tall tree ferns and cool rainforest.
3. Pub in a paddock.
Peppa the pig at pub in a paddock in Pyengana. ©
This iconic Tassie pub in a paddock in Pyengana serves up scrumptious pub grub and cosy accommodations. But what they’re really known for is their gorgeous pigs. Our encounter with the adorable Peppa, pictured above, was a delight. She's a happy, confident, and sociable lady, as you can see how close she got with us in the photo.
3. Pyengana Dairy.
Pyengana Dairy. ©
A place where the cows graze on fresh, lush pastures all year round that results from the clean air, rich soil and water flow, bringing you happy cows and tasty cheese. The Pyengana Dairy Company is simply legend…dairy. (I’m not sorry).
The Surf Coast.
Discover the stunning surf coast between St. Marys and St. Helens, home to Seymour, Chain of Lagoons, Four Mile Creek, Falmouth, Scamander, and Beaumaris. Here are some highlights of these coastal towns.
4. Scamander River, Scamander.
Scamander River at dusk. ©
Nature’s mirror, Scamander River. ©
Don’t miss the phantasmagorical Scamander River when it’s tranquil and the sky is filled with lush ice cream colours.
5. Diana’s Beach, Beaumaris.
Diana's beach, Beaumaris. ©
It’s worth getting up at the break o’day for these unreal ice cream hues at Diana’s Beach in Beaumaris.
If you appreciate a great beach, you can check out an extensive list of the best beaches in the south coast of NSW here.
Bay of Fires.
Known as larapuna to the Traditional Custodians of the Land, this stretch of breathtaking coast full of white sandy beaches juxtaposed against striking orange lichen-covered granite rocks is an absolute must if you love beaches and nature. Beach hop between them or pick your favourite and settle in.
6. Cosy Corner.
Cosy Corner. ©
Cosy Corner at dusk. ©
20 minutes north of St. Helen’s, you’ll find Cosy Corner with two available options for camping, and a whole lot of vibrant and cosy landscapes to feast your senses with.
7. Binalong Bay.
Binalong Bay. ©
The small, pristine coastal village framed with orange lichen-covered boulders of Binalong Bay is a fantastic base to stay if you’re exploring the larger Bay of Fires area.
8. The Gardens.
The Gardens, Bay of Fires. ©
You’ll find The Gardens, in the Bay of Fires, 13 kilometres north of Binalong Bay, and it’s a worthwhile stop!
9. Jeanneret Beach.
Jeanneret Beach, Bay of Fires. ©
Jeanneret Beach is a 250 stretch of sand in Binalong Bay bordered by those iconic rust-coloured rocks, and an excellent beach to stop at for a swim or a picnic, or simply to marvel at those water colours.
Freycinet National Park.
From wineglass-shaped bays to walks and wildlife, Freycinet National Park occupies most of the Freycinet Peninsula and stretches nearly up to Bicheno. There’s plenty to see and do in this part of east coast Tasmania.
10. Wineglass Bay.
Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park. ©
Wineglass Bay is one of Tasmania’s most iconic beaches, and a must-see.
11. The Hazards.
The Hazards, Freycinet Tasmania. ©
Iconic low-line granite peaks which form the famed majestic barrier across the national park, known as The Hazards.
12. Friendly Beaches.
Friendly Beaches, Freycinet National Park. ©
Make friends with a macropod or go surfing on one of Tasmania’s amiable beaches, Friendly Beaches.
13. Honeymoon Bay.
Honeymoon Bay, Freycinet National Park. ©
Wineglass Bay might be more well-known, but the small, secluded Honeymoon Bay, Tasmania, is a beautiful gem. Don’t overlook it or get it confused with Honeymoon Bay in the Beecroft Peninsula.
14. Sleepy Bay.
Orange lichen rocks at Sleepy Bay, Tasmania ©
Sleepy Bay rock formations. ©
Descend a flight of stairs to unveil a gorgeous gravel beach and turquoise cove with more prominent orange-hued rock formations.
Bicheno.
From Douglas Apsley National Park to wineries, seafood and penguins, Bicheno has it all. This quaint town is excellent for foodies, surfers and nature and wildlife lovers and is a great spot to base yourself on the east coast of Tasmania if you want to explore much of the mesmerising coastline.
15. Douglas Aspley National Park.
Apsley Gorge and River in Douglas Apsley National Park. ©
A few kilometres north of Bicheno resides Douglas Apsley National Park, filled with luscious gorges, waterholes, Eucalypt forests and waterfalls—what’s not to love? It’s an easy 15 minute walk to view the waterhole, and absolutely worth the jellied legs, you can walk a steeper, longer walk to Apsley Gorge. For the more intrepid, the Leeaberra Track is a multi-day hike spanning 28 km.
16. See penguins.
Join Bicheno Penguin Tours for an enriching experience that will deepen your understanding of these fascinating birds.
17. East Coast Nature World.
A high probability you’ll encounter a Tasmanian devil.
18. Bicheno Glass Bottom Boat tour.
Get up close with the marine wildlife in Tasmania’s crystal clear waters through this cool ecotourism experience.
19. Diamond Island.
Make sure you don’t get stuck here. It’s safe to walk there and back within one hour of low tide only. Stay on the rocks and keep away from the greenery to avoid our penguin friends.
Maria Island.
Painted cliffs, mystical sea caves, wallabies and wombats await you at Maria Island. Whether you’re into walking or cycling, snorkelling or boat touring, you really can’t go wrong. Get the ferry from Triabunna for a day trip or stay the night.
20. Painted cliffs.
Access and enjoy their beauty safely within two hours of low tide.
21. Darlington.
The most intact example of a convict probation station in Australia and a World Heritage Australian Convict Site, dating back to 1824. If staying overnight in a penitentiary is your kind of thing, you could do that here or if that spooks you, camp for free instead.
22. Ile Des Phoques.
Accessible by boat only. Check out Maria Island Cruises to book.
St. Helens.
The largest of Tasmania's northeast coastal towns is an excellent base to explore Tasmania’s spectacular northeast coast. You’ve got quite a few cool things to do on the east coast of Tasmania in this spot:
23. Mountain bike trails.
Some of the most scenic mountain bike trails in the world.
24. Kerry Agius gallery.
Kerry is a St. Helen’s local who paints a stunning array of Australian wildlife and scenery.
25. Serpentarium Wildlife Park.
An indoor reptile exhibit displaying exotic captive-bred pythons, including Mickey, a green anaconda.
Food and drink.
26. Tasmania East Coast wineries.
Devil’s Corner Cellar Door and Lookout. ©
You won’t have anything to whine about on the Tasmanian east coast wine trail.
Be sure to check out the opening times of each vineyard, as some are only open by appointment.
Craigie Knowe Vineyard
Freycinet Vineyard
Mayfield Estate
Spring Vale Vineyards
Milton Vineyard
Boomer Creek Vineyard
Priory Ridge Wines
Darlington Vineyard
Iron House Vineyard
Devil’s Corner Cellar Door and Lookout
Gala Estate
Kelvedon Estate
27. Tasmanian seafood.
Skipper's fresh oysters at St. Helens Tasmania.
The Lobster Shack at Bicheno oysters.
Like to sea food and eat it? If you’re in Tasmania, you’re unquestionably in the best place for that. Tasmanian seafood is incredible. I always make a point to try the straight-from-the-ocean fresh Tasmanian oysters whenever it’s possible. Here are a few of my favourites from up and down the east coast:
The Lobster Shack, Bicheno
Freycinet Marine Farm, Freycinet
Skippers, St. Helens
The Wharf Bar & Kitchen, St. Helens
Melshell Oyster Shack, Dolphin Sands
Spring Bay Seafood & Wine Bar, Triabunna
The Fish Van, Triabunna
This is not an extensive list, so by all means, make sure you do more research. To get you started, you can view a few Tasmania seafood trail ideas here.
The best of east coast Tasmania things to do.
Tasmania’s east coast is truly one like no other, where you can immerse yourself in breathtaking natural beauty, pristine beaches, charming coastal towns, and unforgettable hiking trails. Hopefully, you’ve got a great collection of ideas for east coast Tasmania things to do now, so go out and embrace it. And remember, #keeptassiewild and consider donating to reputable charities that do their utmost to protect Tasmania’s wild places, such as The Bob Brown Foundation and Keep Tassie Wild.
For more cool walks, check out south coast NSW’s best walks here.
