East Coast Tasmania is one of the state’s most widely renowned regions, reputed for its enchanting coastal views, dramatic landscapes, cosy seaside towns and premium seafood. Explore the region’s national parks and look out over pink-granite mountains and make the most of the crystal-clear waters along the East Coast beaches. Farm-fresh local produce is perfectly paired with the day’s catch and served throughout the port towns and seaside hamlets that fringe this spectacular coastline.
The region’s largest towns are Bicheno and St. Helens. In Bicheno, find barrelling surf and laid-back beach culture as well as fantastic foreshore walking trails and fishing spots. Encounter some of the region’s wildlife at East Coast Natureworld. Join a special guided tour to see little penguins and Tasmanian devils. Governor Island Marine Reserve is the ideal spot to see the rich marine life on a snorkelling trip or glass-bottom boat tour. St. Helens is the gateway to the East Coast’s magnificent Bay of Fires. Sample locally grown cool-climate wines and snap photographs of the sun setting over the bay’s geological formations, tinted with eye-catching red lichen.
Spend time exploring the secluded bays and native forests of Freycinet National Park. Situated on the Freycinet Peninsula, this protected area is home to Wineglass Bay, a pristine sweep of white sand lapped by aquamarine-coloured water, and the Hazards Range with their pink granite peaks. Swim, snorkel and explore rock pools with the kids at Coles Bay.
Inland, you’ll find the stunning canyons and waterfalls of the Douglas-Apsley National Park. See wildflowers amid the rugged peaks of Mount William.
At establishments ranging from reputable restaurants to local fish and chip shops, East Coast Tasmania serves up some of the freshest seafood in the country. Don’t miss trying regional pinot noir and freshly shucked oysters.
Tasmania’s East Coast is best explored via the Great Eastern Drive, an exciting road-trip route that hugs the coast between Buckland in the south and the Bay of Fires in the north.
