Drives and road trips

Underrated. That word sums up the East Coast region of Tasmania.

Here, you’ll find some of the best natural attractions on the planet and enjoy unforgettable, oft-unique experiences.

And chances are you’ll do it all minus the crowds.

Discover some of the many highlights…

Essential attractions

A handful of gem-packed areas instantly spring to mind, led by a couple of icons.

Freycinet National Park

Just minutes from Coles Bay, Freycinet is jam-packed with gob-smacking treasure, including secluded beaches like renowned Wineglass Bay and Honeymoon Bay. Mix this with epic mountains, towering boulders, enchanting wildlife, and coastal views stretching as far as the eye can see. Lap it all up on various walking trails. 

Bay of Fires

This epic stretch of coast delivers a carnival of colours, reached roughly 25km north of St Helens. It extends from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point and is highlighted by colourful granite boulders and dazzling white sand beaches.

Douglas-Apsley National Park

Accessed 25km northwest of Bicheno, this national park is crammed with goodies. They include waterfalls, gorges, dolerite-capped plateaus, and much more.

Evercreech Forest Reserve

The green-filled space is home to the tallest white gums on the planet, some growing to a neck-craning height in excess of 90m. Several walking trails reveal the awe-inspiring surrounds, reached 35km west of St Helens.

Bicheno Blowhole

Mother Nature puts on a free show as water spouts to great heights. And it’s all just a stone’s throw from the town centre.

Other key photo ops

The East Coast is among the best places for photographers in Australia. Here are a few more attractions that shine in front of the lens:

  • Hazards mountain range: The towering peaks of Freycinet National Park are best framed at distance. Coles Bay provides great settings to capture their beauty.
  • St Columba Falls: Spotted 30km west of St Helens, the attraction is among the state’s highest waterfalls.
  • Colourful coastal rocks: Orange lichen-covered creations dominate the landscape and make for pretty pics.

A touch of quirk

Stop by Spiky Bridge, a peculiar convict-built creation constructed from field stones that makes for yet another memorable photo. It’s located 7km south of Swansea.

Best beaches - East Coast TAS

We’ve already mentioned Honeymoon and Wineglass bays, as well as Binalong Bay, but also check out these inviting stretches of sand:

  • Waubs Bay Beach, Bicheno: A white sand wonder with immediate appeal.
  • Muirs Beach, Coles Bay: This sweeping stretch is just a hop, skip, and a jump from BIG4 Iluka.
  • Friendly Beaches, Freycinet National Park: Highly regarded for fishing, surfing, and scenic walks.

Get to Maria Island

Accessible by ferry from Triabunna, Maria Island is rich with natural and historical treasure. The former penal settlement contains incredibly intact evidence of its punishing past, which makes for fascinating exploration. It's coupled with brilliant beaches, dramatic sea views, wildlife, and the famous Painted Cliffs, among more. 

Wildlife essential

Featuring a diverse collection of native animals, birds, and reptiles in sprawling surrounds, East Coast Natureworld at Bicheno is well worth a visit. The chance to view and learn all about Tasmanian devils is a highlight, including as part of an enthralling after-dark experience.

Adventurous activities

Those looking to up the ante should head to St Helens. The town is regarded as Tasmania’s game fishing capital and has various charter options available.

On dry land, the St Helens Mountain Bike Trail Network features an assortment of amazing tracks, from shortish loops to the stunning 42km Bay of Fires Trail.

East Coast TAS seafood

If you like seafood, you’ll love the East Coast. And there is ample opportunity to indulge, with highlights including:

  • Freycinet Marine Farm, Coles Bay: Sample fresh oysters, mussels, scallops, salmon, and more from a deck setting. Or take your goodies away.
  • Melshell Oyster Shack, Dolphin Sands: Tuck into fresh oysters while soaking up river views.
  • Tasmanian Coastal Seafoods, Bicheno: Feast on famous, fabulous fish and chips.

More foodie essentials

Let the tastebuds run wild at these excellent attractions.

  • Pyengana Dairy Company: Sample tasty cheeses as well as watch the good stuff being made.
  • Pub in the Paddock, Pyengana: This icon features a beer-swilling pig, hearty food, and friendly locals.
  • Kate’s Berry Farm, Swansea: Feast on goodies galore while soaking up equally delicious views.

East Coast wine region

The East Coast wine region is highly regarded for its cool-climate wines. Poke your head into these cellar doors:

  • Devil's Corner, Apslawn: Amazing views, award-winning wines, and fresh seafood.
  • Freycinet Vineyard, between Bicheno and Swansea: Try this family-owned winery’s signature pinot noir.
  • Gala Estate, Cranbrook: Another cherished boutique beauty (by appointment only).
  • Priory Ridge, near St Helens: Character-filled heritage building creates an inviting setting.
  • Spring Vale, Cranbrook: Family owned, located on a historical site. Pinot noir leads the way.

East Coast Tasmania accommodation

BIG4 parks are planted in prime locations within the East Coast region. Take a peek below.

Related Parks