There’s a lot to love about the East Coast of Tasmania.
Whether it’s paddling the sparkling azure waters of Coles Bay. Or hopping over flaming-red rocks and strolling along white sandy beaches in the Bay of Fires. Or climbing to incredible lookouts for jaw-dropping views over iconic Wineglass Bay, and the pink granite mountains of Freycinet.
Surf spots, sun and salt water. Seafood too.
Lip-smacking lobster in Bicheno, or perfect sweet oysters in Freycinet, fresh from the Tasman sea.
An epic east coast road trip with vineyards and cellar doors dotted along the way.
There’s whale watching and penguin spotting.
Oh, and then there’s the coastal views. Round every bend. On every hiking trail.
Or there’s plenty of nothing to do but relax. Find a deserted beach. Fold out your towel. Soak up the serenity. Decompress.
That’s just how they roll in the east.
Our Epic East Coast Tasmania Guide to Endless Fun 😎
We love an East Coast road trip. We’ve done several. Stayed at some incredible places. Soaked up the sun on Tasmania’s best beaches. Hit the wineries. Indulged in amazing seafood. Wandered the walking trails. Here’s a guide that puts the best of the east coast together, for you.
The Best Places to Stay on the East Coast of Tasmania
East Coast Tasmania accommodation options are incredible, if you know where to look! You’ll find unique stays dotted along this saffire coast. Think beach houses with expansive ocean views from every room, glamping tents glowing under star-filled skies, romantic cabins for two, or campsites meters from powder-white sandy beaches.
There’s secluded spots to decompress, or bustling bnbs right near the action. From Bicheno to Bay of Fires you’ll have miles and miles of beach to explore, right at your door.
Stays on Tasmania’s east coast are unforgettable. So pack your swimmers and your sunnies, because here are some of the best.
Check available East Coast Tasmania accommodation →
😴 Our favourite East Coast Tasmania accommodation…
Top 10 things to do on the East Coast of Tasmania
The East Coast is one epic road trip. You’ll be spoilt for things to see and places to go. Plan your trip around these incredible destinations and you’re guaranteed to have the holiday of a lifetime.
Survey stunning Cape Tourville
Cape Tourville Lighthouse
Cape Tourville Lighthouse is a rare perspective on Tasmania’s wild coastline. We were stunned by the views on this easy short walk. Situated on the dramatic Freycinet Peninsula, this quiet outpost is a must visit. A suspended path along the cliff face leads you to the lighthouse, with sweeping views of Great Oyster Bay and the Hazards Mountains all the way. The lighthouse, still standing strong after more than a century of service, is a glimpse into Tasmania’s seafaring past. Here, the coastal landscape speaks for itself – raw, beautiful, and dramatic – while the lighthouse quietly watches over the bay.
Glamp under the stars at Bay of Fires
Glamping in the Bay of Fires
Glamping at Bay of Fires Bush Retreat is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Tasmania’s northeast coast. And it’s one of our favourite experiences. Hidden among the native bushland close to pristine white sands, glamping here is a unique blend of comfort and wilderness. Sleep under the stars in spacious, luxe tents surrounded by the soothing sounds of waves crashing against the shoreline. By day, explore the stunning Bay of Fires, known for its crystal-clear waters, striking orange rocks, and sweeping beaches. By night, unwind around a campfire as the cool sea breeze rolls in.
Sip and savour mountain views
Devils Corner
At Devils Corner Vineyard, the wine is as great as the view. These guys make our favourite dry whites – must be all those warm sea breezes. Perched above the vines, the tasting room here takes advantage of a stunning panorama across Great Oyster Bay to the Hazards Mountains, a backdrop that feels surreal. Enjoy a glass of cool-climate wine, expertly crafted under one of Tasmania’s most famous labels, and pair it with fresh, local pizza from Tomobolo’s Freycinet or seafood from Fishes of Freycinet. With a relaxed, pet-friendly atmosphere, this is the place to slow down, savour the sips and scenery, and let the natural beauty of the region do the talking.
Admire the mighty Hazards Mountains
Coles Bay Foreshore waLk
This little known Coles Bay Foreshore Walk is one of those experiences that stays with you. The trail winds its way along the calm, azure blue waters of Great Oyster Bay, with striking red rocks along the foreshore a vivid contrast to the surrounding blue. Take a cooling dip in one of the peaceful coves as you make your way to Coles Bay. Explore the rock pools, watch the birds soaring high above and soak in the mighty Hazards Mountains in the distance, their rugged peaks a constant, awe-inspiring backdrop. The path is easy to follow and to walk, and at the end is a well-earned stop at the Coles Bay Ice Creamery – perfect on a summer’s day.
Visit the amazing blowhole at Bicheno
Bicheno Blowhole
Visiting the Bicheno Blowhole feels like standing at the edge of something powerful and unpredictable. The first time I saw the water explode from the rocks up close, sending a spray high into the air with force – it was wierdly unexpected. The sound of the water crashing against the rocks is deafening – hard not to feel humbled by nature’s raw energy. It’s of those spots where the natural world doesn’t hold back, and you can’t help but watch in awe.
Kayak the azure seas
Paddle Great Oyster Bay
A Freycinet Paddle kayak tour around Coles Bay and Great Oyster Bay gives you a whole new perspective of this stunning region. Paddling through the calm waters, I was struck by the serenity of the bay, surrounded by the towering Hazards Mountains and the smooth, red granite of the coastline. From the water, you get a sense of quiet that’s hard to find on land. The view of the coastline, is next level – something you can’t fully appreciate unless you’re out there on the water, moving at your own pace. It’s a peaceful, immersive experience that reveals the true heart of this iconic Tasmanian destination. Be prepared for sore arms the next day though!
Marvel at iconic Wineglass Bay
Walk to Wineglass Bay lookout
The walk to Wineglass Bay Lookout is not for the faint-hearted—it’s an uphill climb that will certainly get your lungs sucking in air. But the effort is more than worth it. Waiting for you at the top is one of Tasmania’s most iconic views: the sweeping panorama over Wineglass Bay, marked by its pristine white sandy curve set against the deep blue of the bay. Beyond that, the rugged beauty of the Freycinet Peninsula unfolds before you, stretching out as far as the eye can see. The views are breathtaking, and standing there with the landscape at your feet is an incredible experience. Just go early to avoid the climbing crowds.
Cruise the day away
Cruise the Waters around Freycient
A boat cruise around Coles Bay is the perfect way to see the sealife in this stunning region. We highly recommend the experience. As you cruise along the coast, the towering granite cliffs loom overhead – unexpected and stunning at the same time. And Wineglass Bay appears like a postcard, its white sands glistening if you hit a blue sky summer day. We spotted dolphins playing in the water, seals lounging on a rocky outcrop. There are whales too, at the right time of year. The ploughman’s lunch served on board—filled with local cheeses—topped off the experience exploring the best of Freycinet’s wild, rugged coastline.
Cool off along the coast
Explore hidden coves
Exploring the hidden coves and peaceful bays along Tasmania’s east coast is like uncovering well-kept secrets. Tucked away from the crowds, these quiet pockets of coastline invite you to slow down and dive into the crystal-clear waters. Some spots feel like your own private paradise, with sheltered shallows perfect for a refreshing dip or a snorkelling adventure. The best thing – the fun of finding these coveted spots. Take that turn off the highway. Follow that winding gravel road. The beauty that awaits – of empty beaches and blue seas – makes it easy to forget the world and feel like you’ve escaped. What more could you ask for on an epic road trip?
Walk the Beautiful Bay of Fires
Bay of FIres Self guided walks
The Bay of Fires beach trails are like wandering through a natural masterpiece. Narrow, winding paths lead you through dense riparian scrub, opening up onto vast, deserted beaches, where the sand is so untouched it feels like you’re the first person to ever walk there. And the boulders—dusted with vivid orange—beckon you to climb and scramble to get to the top. Waves crash against the rocks, and the turquoise water glistens in the sunlight. It’s a raw and sometimes isolating experience, perfect for adventurers.
Tasmania East Coast Road Trip
We’ve marked out the route of a 7-day Tasmania East Coast road trip to knock your socks off!
This 7 day east coast Tasmania itinerary starts in either Hobart or Launceston and takes in 4 of the east coast’s biggest destinations, and a tonne of attractions, adventures and fun stops along the way. Here are the highlights (from Hobart, but you can easily do it in reverse from Launceston):
- Richmond – historic village, cute boutiques
- Maria Island – wombats & world heritage nature
- Coles Bay – wineries, walks, lookouts & seafood
- Bicheno – beach, lobsters, food and brews
- Bay of Fires – orange rocks, turquoise seas, white sand beaches
- St Helens – laid back coastal vibes, brews, mountain biking.
- Pyengana – Ice cream & cheese heven
- Derby – sauna plunge rejuvenation on a pretty lake
- Lilydale – beautiful waterfall to top off your trip
After a day in Richmond and exploring the Coal River Valley, we recommend the first night in Triabunna at the Triabunna Barracks (Lux) or the East Coaster (budget).
The next day is dedicated to Maria Island – one of our favourite spots in Tassie!
Nights 2 and 3 are in Coles Bay at Freycinet Lodge soaking up the ocean sunset views.
Then two nights in Bicheno at Travellers Rest with dinner at Le Coq.
Night 6 is in the Bay of Fires – Bay of Fires Bush Retreat glamping experience is one you won’t forget.
Then it’s an epic day of scenic driving through the North’s prettiest country with a stop over for ice cream, a sauna and watefall before arriving in Launceston.
Or do the exact itinerary in reverse, from Launceston to Hobart.
There’s a whole bunch in this 7 day east coast tasmania road trip for everyone – fun for families, romance for couples, adventure for off the beaten track wanderers.
It’s East Coast Tasmania at it’s epic best.
East Coast Tasmania Map
Here’s an East Coast Tasmania Map with all of our favourite destinations marked – from incredible walks, to amazing stays, from the best coffee on the east coast to our favourite seafood stops. You’ll find everything we recommend in thise East Coast Tasmania guide, and more! Best of all – it’s free!
Just open the map on your iphone, jump in your rental car, and you’re on your way for an epic east Coast road trip.
What a time saver!
Tasmania East Coast Road Trip
Tasmania’s version of icon Route 66. Here’s how to plan the most unforgettable road trip along Tasmania’s East Coast:
East Coast Tasmania’s Best Restaurants
The Bay Restaurant, Freycinet – Bistro with a view.
Mount Paul Lounge (Omakase set), Freycinet – Japanese set menu
Furneaux Restaurant and Comptoir, St Helens – French fine dining overlooking the bay.
The SOCIAL Tasmania, St Helens – quirky and delish.
Flora’s Restaurant, Craige Knowe Vineyard – food to savour on the vines.
Best Seafood on Tasmania’s East Coast
Lease 65, St Helens – best and most affordable Oysters.
Skippers Fish Shop, St Helens – best fish n chips
Freycinet Marine Farm – best Tasmanian scallops and mussels
The Lobster Shack, Bicheno – best fresh Lobster lunch.
The Bay Restaurant Freycinet Lodge – best seafood platter
Mt Paul Lounge, Freycinet Resort – best sashimi & sushi
Top 3 East Coast Tasmania Destinations
Bay of Fires
World famous and in everyone’s ‘Tasmania top ten’, the Bay of Fires is everything you’ve heard, and more. Here’s a smapshot or read our full guide 👇🏽:
Where to stay
If you haven’t tried glamping, Bay of Fires Bush Retreat is our favourite Tasmania glamping experience. It’s also our top pick for unique accommodation on the East Coast of Tasmania. And we can’t think of a more perfect place to do it than Bay of Fires!
What to see & do
- Remote beach combing – explore Tasmania’s most incredible deserted beaches
- Photography – sunrise & sunset in the Bay of Fires is next level backdrop and light for stunning photography.
- Bay of Fires Walks – gob-smacking self-guided walks weave along the Bay of Fires coast. It’s time to hit the trails.
- Swim, snorkel, paddle board – sheltered Binalong Bay is the perfect spot to put your toes in.
- Glamping – Bay of Fires Bush Retreat in Binalong Bay does glamping to perfection. And it’s hugely fun.
- Off-grid freedom camping – so many wild beach-front camp spots, so little time…
- Beach fishing – Bay of Fires is among Tasmania’s best beach fishing spots to snag some flathead, whiting or bream.
- Mountain biking – Get your heart racing on the Bay of Fires Mountain Bike Trail. Bike hire and shuttles are easy to organise.
Where to eat
There’s just the one cafe / restaurant to eat out in the Bay of Fires, located at Binalong Bay. But boy is it a good one! The Hub Seaside serves up excellent wood-fired pizza, cold beer and hot coffee. Even better, it’s a cracking spot to take in the views over beautiful Binalong Bay.
St Helens’ restaurants are just a 15 minute drive away. The ‘best places to eat in St Helens’ list is headed up by Furneaux Restaurant and Comptoir. If it sounds fancy, that’s because it is. Fine dining on Tasmania’s east coast starts here.
💎 Hidden Gem: Don’t miss the creamy, fat take away Tasmanian oysters at Lease 65, Located on Binalong Bay Road betwen St helens and Binalong Bay, these guys are easy to miss! They’re not a restaurant or cafe. But they do retail the best and most affordable oysters in the Bay for you to take away!
Plan your trip to Bay of Fires and St Helens 👇🏽
St Helens to Bay of Fires Road trip
The journey from St Helens to the Bay of Fires is an unforgettable road trip. This 55km stretch of Tasmania’s east coast is renowned for its breathtaking white sandy beaches and striking orange-hued granite boulders that make the Bay of Fires so iconic. Along the way, you’ll encounter secluded spots perfect for a peaceful swim, hidden coastal walks, and lookouts with panoramic views of the Tasman Sea.
A longer visit to the Bay of Fires is ideal for adventurers. For the camping, the hiking, and discovering of deserted beaches, rocky outcrops, rock pools and gulches.
Check out our perfect St Helens to Bay of Fires road trip itinerary to stay a day or hide away here.
Bicheno
The sweet, sleepy, seaside town of Bicheno on the east coast of Tasmania punches above it’s weight as a beach-goers haven. Here are the highlights or read our full guide 👇🏽:
Where to stay in bicheno
Pods on Fraser – if you love vast views you’ll love this place! Its 2 bedrooms, fully equipped kitchen, outdoor deck and modern vibe are perfect for a family or couple want more space.
Anchored at Bicheno – if you love sophistication in a holiday home this place is for you. Its ocean views, 3 bedrooms, full kitchen and laundry make it great for big families and longer stays.
Travellers Rest – The quality and style of this 2 bedroom holiday home in Bicheno is unmatched. And the beachfront location is incredible too. If you want an unforgettable family holiday, this is it.
Things to do in bicheno
- Bicheno Blowhole – get up close to this feat of nature and feel the spray.
- Bicheno Foreshore walk – Start at the end of Burgess Street and walk around to the Blowhole. The views are spectacular.
- Bicheno Penguin Tour – our first time seeing Penguins up close was on this tour. Heaps of fun and knowledgeable guides that can tell you everything you want to know about Penguins.
- Bicheno Brews – Up and coming new microbrewer worth a visit. Kick back and relax with a few local ales in the centre of Bicheno.
- Bicheno Glass Bottom Boat tour – check out what’s under the crystal clear waters of Bicheno bay in a glass bottom boat.
- Waubs Harbour Distillery -Pop in for a guided tasting of whisky with sea views. Book first.
- Whale watch – from May to December, head up to Whaler’s Lookout Scenic Reserve and try spot some whales in the bay.
Where to eat in bicheno
The Lobster Shack for lunch is not to be missed. It’s iconic Tasmania and the Lobster ain’t half bad either. Market price was $70 for a half lobster when we were there. It’s not cheap but is fresh and sweet.
Le Coq Bicheno is the new kid in town – and it’s opened to rave reviews! Like Furneaux Restaurant and Comptoir in St Helens, Le Coq is French. But in a modern industrial style eatery with a relaxed feel. The combination just works and the food in delish!
💎 Hidden Gem: Don’t miss the excellent coffee and delectable pastries at Little Bay Patisserie. Hidden in a clothes shop these pastries sell out early. Drop in and try one!
Plan your trip to Bicheno👇🏽
Hobart to Bicheno
Coming soon
Freycinet National Park
Nature lovers paradise, Freycinet and Coles Bay have it all – adventure, relaxation, luxury, and views to kill. Just remember you need a Parks Pass for this destination. Here’s what to do and see, or read our full guide 👇🏽:
Where to stay in Freycinet
Freycinet Lodge – Luxe option! spacious cabins with a touch of luxury (spa bath with a view!) in a central location by Honeymoon Bay with a sunset deck, cocktail bar, restaurant & excellent service. Our fave resort stay in the Bay.
Big 4 Iluka on Freycinet – great reviews for this budget option. The Standard Studio is a great choice for couples wanting to cook in. The 2 bed holiday unit is perfect for a family. Just book early as this place is popular.
The Moorings at Freycinet – Family accommodation option! 3 beds, 2 baths in a great location with spectacular views of the Hazards & Coles Bay from the lounge, dining and main bedroom. Immaculately presented with outstanding guest reviews.
Things to do in Coles Bay (that aren’t in our top 10 list but are still awesome)
- Sunset cocktails overlooking Coles Bay – head to Freycinet Lodge for cocktails on the deck overlooking the sea. Go for happy hour from 4:30 to 5:30 and stay for the stunning sunset.
- Paddleboard the bays – Calm waters around Richardson Beach make this a paddle board haven. You can ren the gear from Freycinet Paddle Boards and they will drop it off to you!
- Hike the Hazards Beach Track – this 11km walk to Hazards Beach and back will test your stamina but there’s a cooling dip on a beautiful beach to look forward to. Hugs the coast with lovely views and easy track to walk.
- Float your troubles away at Richardsons Beach – take a dip in the tranquil waters of Richardsons Beach, float off into your own world and stare at the Hazards. The rest of the planet melts away…
- Fish for flathead – Great Oyster Bay is one of Tasmania’s fishing hotspots. Grab a fishing kit from the same guys that rent paddle boards and fish off the rocks around the bay.
Where to eat in Coles Bay
Freycinet Marine Farm – have lunch here for the freshest seafood in Freycinet. Scallops were divine and the mussels a favourite too. We were oystered out by this point of our trip but I’m sure they’re divine here too.
Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar – we have to give this place a wrap for their wood fired pizza best consumed overlooking the boat ramp to Coles Bay. The coffee here is also brewed to perfection.
💎 Hidden Gem: For a beach experience away from the crowds, head over bumpy gravel roads to Friendly Beaches. It’s a bit of a trek but you’ll be rewarded with deserted white-sand beaches and beautiful views back to Cape Tourville.
Plan your trip to Freycinet National Park👇🏽
When to go to the East Coast Tasmania
In one word, summer, It’s THE season to hit the East Coast.
Expect early to mid 20s in the day time and cool enough to sleep temperatures in the teens at night.
The water is warmer. The day’s longer. The breezes less chill. There’s a beach vibe wherever you go.
Sunny days, minimal rain. Starry nights. It’s perfect. But places like The Wineglass Bay Lookout Walk and Cape Tourville Track are very crowded.
If you want the warmth without the hoards, travel in early December or in February, March.
🔐 Read more: To work out when to book to book your East Coast trip for good weather check out When is a good time to visit Tasmania? And it’s not what you think!
East Coast Tasmania FAQs
Where to stop on the east coast of Tasmania?
The 4 big attractions on the east coast of Tasmania that you should consider stopping at – Freycinet, Bicheno, Bay of Fires, St Helens.
If you have a spare day, we highly recommend taking the boat the Maria Island. Heres how to plan a Maria Island day trip 👉🏽 A magical Maria Island day trip you’ll rave about after.
Our Epic East Coast Tasmania Guide 👆🏼 shares all the best destinations for food, fun, views and experiences. Check it out.
If you want to get off the beaten path, there’s plenty of opportunities along the east coast too. Call in to Friendly Beaches, Beaumauris Beach or hit some of the more remote trails in Freycinet National Park.
Which coast of Tasmania is best?
We prefer the east coast Tasmania to the west coast. There are more attractions, destinations, beaches and incredible experiences along the east coast.
The weather is also drier and sunnier, with warmer termperatures in winter. Although in summer, the east coast is a few degrees hotter than the west. Compared to Australia, the east coast Tasmania has mostly mild summer days so it’s still the perfect seaside spot to escape the mainland summer heat.
The east coast is also easier to get to and travel around. There are fewer gravel roads to navigate, and the driving is mostly easy – conditions are good. There’s more infrastructure too as the population is bigger, so tourists generally have an easier experience on the east coast.
The west coast is wilder, more rugged and still a great place to visit if you want remote, off the beaten path experiences.
What are the best towns on the east coast of Tasmania?
Our favourite town on the east cosat of Tasmania is Bicheno. It punches above it’s weight for beaches, food and there’s a new brewery too. You’ll find excellent holiday homes in Bicheno, rounding out the relaxed seaside vibe.
St Helens has a lot going for it too – proximity to the Bay of Fires and a couple of new-commers to the food scene make it an excellent stop over on any east coast Tasmania road trip.
These are two great towns to base yourself, but the thing about the east coast is that it’s easy to get around. Exploring the towns along the coast for yourself is part of the fun!
How many days do you need for the east coast Tasmania?
Ideally, we’d recommend a 7 day itinerary for east coast Tasmania. Check out the driving route and destinations on our 7 day east coast Tasmania road trip above 👆🏼.
If you don’t have 7 days, I’d spend a night in Triabunna to see Maria Island, a night at Coles Bay to see Freycinet National Park, and a night in Bay of Fires St Helens. This truncated trip should give you all of the best highlights of the east coast.
What's the weather like on the east coast Tasmania?
The east coast is dry and hot (for Tasmania) in summer. The sun is especially harsh and sunburn can happen easily and quickly. But the seas is warmest in summer too, making it the best place to swim at the beach in Tasmania.
Winters are mild and mostly dry, compared to the rainfall experienced around the rest of the island.
With temperate conditions most of the year, the east coast Tasmania is extremely popular with tourist all year round.