Freycinet & Coles Bay
Travellers Guide to Fabulous Freycinet National Park 🦘
📕 In a Nutshell
Why visit Freycinet National Park & Coles Bay?
Freycient National Park and Coles Bay are world class. For the views, the sea, the seafood, and the summer vibes. All year long
So lets dig in to these two popular Tasmanian holiday destinations.
If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania, there’s a strong chance you’ve already come across a photo of Wineglass Bay. That flawless crescent of white sand backed by granite mountains and shimmering teal water is on every Tassie brochure, Instagram reel, “must do” holiday list. But Wineglass Bay is just one part of what makes Freycinet National Park and its gateway town, Coles Bay, one of the most breathtaking corners of Tasmania.
We’ve visited Freycinet and Coles Bay a few times, most recently in December 2024, and I can tell you this: it’s not just the views that make this place special.
It’s the light that turns the granite of The Hazards pink at sunset. It’s the taste of oysters pulled from the bay that morning. It’s that stillness you get while floating in the cold, clear water at Honeymoon Bay with nothing but sky and granite as far as the eye can see. It’s quite simply, the vibes of summer all year long that attract people here – in droves.
But here’s what most travellers don’t expect.
But it’s also a place with layers—deep ones. The Freycinet Peninsula has been home to the Paredarerme people for tens of thousands of years. This is their Country.
The name Freycinet comes from a pair of French explorers who mapped the coastline in the early 1800s, but the stories here stretch far beyond European arrival. Middens—ancient piles of shellfish remains—can still be found tucked behind sand dunes, evidence of lives lived in rhythm with the sea long before tourists came for the views.
Next came the whalers.
Coles Bay was once a site of intensive shore-based whaling in the 1820s and 30s. It’s hard to imagine now, standing on the calm jetty looking out across Great Oyster Bay, that these waters once ran red with the blood of southern right whales.
Today, those same whales are returning, cautiously, season by season, and you might just spot one if you’re lucky—especially from the lookout at Cape Tourville or on a boat cruise (more on that later).
What makes Freycinet National Park truly unforgettable is the way the human history, the wild natural beauty, and the rhythm of the east coast all layer together. It’s a place of contrasts—harsh and gentle, exposed and intimate, popular and still somehow peaceful if you know where to look.
Freycinet or Bay of Fires?
We get this question a lot. And I understand – people’s time is limited.
If you’re tossing up between Freycinet and another east coast favourite the Bay of Fires, here’s the quick take: Bay of Fires has better far beaches,. World class in fact.But Freycinet has better everything else—walks, views, seafood, and that indescribable feeling you get when you’re standing above Wineglass Bay as the wind comes off the sea.
This guide will help you plan your trip to Freycinet and Coles Bay with all the insight of someone who’s been there a few times, done the hikes, swum the bays, and eaten the oysters. And who keeps going back.
Getting to Freycinet & Coles Bay:
What You Need to Know
Freycinet might feel remote—and that’s part of the appeal—but getting there is easier than you’d think. You just have to commit. There’s no public transport to the park entrance, and no Uber rides waiting in Coles Bay. This is Tasmania’s wild east coast, not a city pitstop. If you want to do it right, and trust me, you do, you’ll need your own set of wheels.
Where exactly is Freycinet?
Freycinet National Park is perched on a striking peninsula about halfway up Tasmania’s east coast. Most people stay in the tiny town of Coles Bay Tasmania, which hugs the edge of Great Oyster Bay and stares straight across the water to the iconic Hazards mountain range. It’s about 2.5 hours from Hobart to Freycinet, 2.25 hours from Launceston to Freycinet, and around 3 hours from Devonport if you’re coming in via the Spirit of Tasmania.
Driving is half the fun. Coming from Hobart, the east coast route takes you through rolling countryside, coastal towns like Orford and Swansea, and past roadside farm stalls that tempt you to stop (you should).
I recommend making a road trip of it and including a side quest to Maria Island. If you love the thought of devils and wombat in the wild, you’ll love it.
And don’t skip Devils Corner—it’s more than just a cellar door. Think seafood shacks, wood-fired pizza, and a lookout tower with one of the best panoramic views of the Hazards anywhere outside the park. Ideal lunch spot.
If you’re driving from Launceston, the route is slightly more direct and cuts through lush farmland and eucalyptus forest before joining the coast near Bicheno. Different vibe, same payoff when those granite peaks come into view.
Whichever way you come, you’ll eventually peel off onto Coles Bay Road—a sealed and scenic drive that delivers you straight into the heart of Freycinet. Once you hit that first glimpse of The Hazards glowing over the bay, you’ll understand why this place steals hearts.
When to go—and how to avoid the crowds
We visited in the first week of December and it was perfect. Warm days, calm water, and the big summer crowds hadn’t quite rolled in yet. Peak season runs from mid-December through February, and things get hectic. Hikes are crowded, parking is a battle, and accommodation books out months in advance.
If you’re thinking about Freycinet camping, especially right on the water inside the park, listen up: the best campsites here are subject to a ballot system during summer. Parks and Wildlife Tasmania runs a Freycinet ballot every August for campsites at Richardsons Beach, Honeymoon Bay, and Ranger Creek—the prime beachfront spots just inside the park entrance. The ballot applies to stays over the Christmas and January school holiday period, and it’s the only way to secure a site during that time. Applications open 1 August and close 31 August. It’s luck of the draw, but worth entering.
Outside of the ballot period, campsites return to first-come-first-served bookings. But don’t assume “off-peak” means empty. Freycinet’s popularity stretches well into autumn. If you’re planning to camp, book early—anytime of year.
Autumn (March to May) is a brilliant time to visit. Quieter trails, calm seas, and mild weather perfect for hiking. Winter has its own charms—misty mornings, cosy cabins, and zero crowds—but you’ll want to rug up and temper your beach swimming dreams.
Road conditions and car advice
The road into Coles Bay is sealed and well-maintained, but don’t expect city slick infrastructure when you get there. Coles Bay is tiny—like, blink-and-you’ll-miss-it tiny. One general store, one fuel pump (sometimes closed), a handful of bakeries and cafes, and no supermarket. If you’re self-catering, stock up on groceries and fuel in Swansea or Bicheno. Petrol too.
Some of the best bits of Freycinet—like Friendly Beaches—sit down gravel roads. These are drivable in a 2WD, but full of potholes and washboarding, especially after rain. An SUV or AWD isn’t essential but it’ll make things more comfortable. Take it slow and watch for wildlife.
Parking at the main trailheads inside Freycinet National Park can also be chaotic in peak season. The lot at the Wineglass Bay lookout track is full by mid-morning on most summer days. Thankfully, there’s a Freycinet shuttle bus that runs from Coles Bay to the park during busy periods. It’s the best way to avoid the carpark circus and still hit the big-ticket walks.
Practical tips from the road
- Fill up before you arrive. Coles Bay has fuel, but limited hours. Don’t leave it to chance.
- BYO groceries. The local shop stocks basics, but you’ll pay more and choices are slim.
- Download maps. Mobile coverage can be patchy, especially inside the park.
- Watch for wildlife. Wombats, wallabies and echidnas don’t follow road rules. Avoid driving at dawn or dusk.
- Time your hikes. Start early to beat the heat and the busloads of visitors.
Where to Stay in Freycinet and Coles Bay
What to Know Before You Book
So you’re sold on coming to Freycinet. Good call. But now comes the hard part—where to stay in Freycinet National Park or nearby Coles Bay? Because what you pick—be it a luxe lodge, a rustic beach shack, or a spot in a campground ballot—shapes how your trip plays out. There’s a bit of everything here: cabins, resorts, village holiday homes. Read what we’ve learned (often the hard way) about choosing your base in this wild and wildly popular part of Tasmania.
Best rated from Hobart
Freycinet & Wineglass Bay Tours
Visiting Freycinet National Park isn’t snapping a photo of Wineglass Bay and moving on. It’s following the curve of the coastline by kayak, walking through eucalyptus forests with granite underfoot, and watching the light shift across Coles Bay as the day begins or ends. It’s the kind of place that gets under your skin—in the best way.
Why Take a Freycinet or Wineglass Bay Tour?
Sure, you can explore Freycinet solo. And you should, if you’ve got the time. But a guided tour brings this place to life in ways that’ll stick with you long after your shoes are full of sand. Imagine paddling quietly across Coles Bay in a sea kayak, the pink Hazards rising beside you as your guide shares stories of the land and sea. Or stepping aboard a Wineglass Bay cruise and watching dolphins dance in the boat’s wake while you sip a local pinot.
Tours here aren’t just about logistics. They’re about access—about slipping into hard-to-reach coves, learning how Wineglass got its name, or seeing the bay from a perspective you’d never get on foot. It’s the joy of discovery with a little less guesswork and a lot more ease.
And the shared moments? They’re the kind that linger. Laughing with new friends on the track up to to Mt Amos. Spotting a sea eagle overhead at the same time. Toasting the view with a local sparkling as the boat slows into Wineglass Bay. There’s something powerful about experiencing wild places with other people who are just as awestruck as you are.
Freycinet tours range from the adventurous to the indulgent. Paddle, hike, cruise, or simply soak it all in. However you explore it, this place delivers a front-row seat to Tasmania’s rugged, radiant beauty.
How to Book a Freycinet Tour
I’ve narrowed it down to the top tours that show off the best of Freycinet—👇🏽 from kayaking around Coles Bay and guided walks to laid-back cruises that include a gourmet lunch in one of the world’s most photogenic bays.
Find your perfect Freycinet or Wineglass Bay tour 👇🏽
Wineglass Bay Cruise Adults Only
4.9 ⭐️ (67 reviews) | 4.5 hours
We’ve done Wineglass Bay countless times, but this adults-only cruise is the one we’d recommend for couples. Our favourite moment? When they start shucking fresh oysters right on deck and slide a proper Tasmanian wine into your hand. It’s your best change to spot some seals and explore hidden sea caves you’d never notice from the walking tracks..
Wineglass Bay Day Trip (ex. Hobart)
4.8 ⭐️ (213 reviews) | 10 hours
We’ll be honest – the 2.5-hour drive from Hobart feels long until you hit that lookout and see why Wineglass Bay is on every “world’s best beaches” list. The 6km return hike with those infamous 1,000 stairs down to the beach will test your legs but trust us, floating in that impossibly turquoise water makes every step worth it. The bonus stops at historic Spiky Bridge and charming Swansea remind you there’s so much more to Tassie’s east coast than just the main event.
Paddle Freycient Kayak Tour
4.8 ⭐️ (37 reviews) | 3 hours
We tried this thinking it’d be just another paddle, but gliding silently past those pink granite cliffs while a curious seal followed our kayak for twenty minutes changed everything. The guides know every secret spot that you’d never find walking going solo. Three hours feels like five minutes when you’re weaving through crystal-clear aqua waters with the Hazards towering above – it’s the most peaceful way to experience Freycinet’s wild side. And just that little bit adventurous!
What to See & Do in Freycinet National Park
top 5 activities
You don’t come to Freycinet to sit still. This peninsula is packed with granite peaks, glassy bays, walking trails, and water-based adventures that make you feel—if only for a moment—like the world’s last great explorer.
The views hit different here. So does the air. And with every corner of Freycinet National Park shaped by deep history—both ancient and colonial—there’s plenty to uncover, beyond just ticking off the top walks.
Here’s our three favourite ways to spend your time in Freycinet if you want the kind of experiences you’ll remember forever.
- Walks and Hikes
- Swimming & snorkelling
- Paddling and cruising
- Eating & Drinking.
👇🏽👇🏽
Top things to do
Walks & Hikes in Freycinet National Park
Let’s start with the obvious: the hiking here is unreal.
Granite mountains roll straight into the sea, walking tracks hug cliffs or plunge into cool forest, and the bush flickers with movement—pademelons, parrots, skinks and the occasional wallaby if you’re lucky. Lets look at four of the best:
- Wineglass Bay Lookout Walk
- Cape Tourville Lighthouse Walk
- Mt Amos Hike
- Hazards Beach to Wineglass Bay circuit
Wineglass Bay Lookout Walk
You can’t come all the way to Freycinet and not do this one. Yes, it’s busy. Yes, it’s a bit of a stairmaster. But the view from the top? Worth every step. Wineglass Bay lookout is Tasmania’s most photographed vista for a reason—white-sand crescent beach, turquoise water, and The Hazards standing tall behind you.
We walked it in early summer and even then, the path was full of visitors—some bounding up like mountain goats, others turning back halfway. Stick it out. It’s a steady climb, about 45–60 minutes return. Bring water, wear grippy shoes, and aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light and smallest crowds.
(Tip: Want to beat the mobs and get the shot? Hike up at sunrise. Pack a head torch and a thermos. It’s magic up there.)
Cape Tourville Lighthouse Walk
An absolute highlight—and one of our Top 10 Short Walks in Tasmania. This one’s short, sealed, and delivers cliff-top ocean views that look like a David Attenborough drone shot. It’s also wheelchair- and pram-friendly, so great if you’ve got little ones or limited mobility. But fair warning: it gets packed by mid-morning.
We paired it with a side trip down to Sleepy Bay, and that little detour is still imprinted in my mind. You leave the smooth boardwalk behind and descend into rugged, boulder-lined bush. The sound of the sea builds slowly, and then the trees open to reveal the bay—deep blue water crashing over smooth pink rocks, with barely another soul in sight. It felt wilder. More personal. And more Tasmanian, somehow.
We sat on a ledge and just stared for a while.
Freycinet Walking Tour
If you’d rather let someone else handle the route planning, there’s a half-day Freycinet Walking Tour from Coles Bay that we’ve had bookmarked for next time. It’s led by local guides who know the park intimately—not just the tracks, but the geology, plants, and palawa culture. You’ll visit key viewpoints like Sleepy Bay and Cape Tourville, but with commentary that brings it all to life.
Perfect if you want something relaxed, informative, and a bit off the beaten path. Pick-up is from Coles Bay and the walk is moderate, not extreme.
Mount Amos Hike
This one’s for the brave—and the flexible. The track is steep, unmarked in places, and involves actual scrambling over slick granite. But the payoff is wild: 360-degree views over Wineglass Bay, The Hazards, and the whole Freycinet Peninsula
Don’t attempt this one in wet weather or if you’re not confident on rock. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s arguably the best viewpoint in all of Freycinet National Park.
(PS: We skipped this one on our December trip, but it’s firmly on the list for next time. Everyone we’ve spoken to who’s done it calls it epic.)
The Hazards Beach–Wineglass Bay Circuit
If you want to go deeper into the landscape, this loop track combines both Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach. Take the left fork first toward Hazards Beach, then cross the Isthmus Track to Wineglass Bay and climb back out via the lookout. About 11km in total.
The trail hugs the coastline, slips through peaceful forest, and gives you that sense of really being in the wilderness. Not everyone makes it past the lookout, so once you’re on the circuit, it gets quieter. Highly recommended.
Kayaking, Cruising & hidden bays
Get on the water
If you’re thinking Freycinet is all about hikes and headlands—hold up. The water here is just as big a drawcard, and honestly, some of the best views aren’t from the trail—they’re from the sea.
Kayaking with Paddle Freycinet
We joined a sea kayaking tour with Paddle Freycinet and it was one of the best things we did all trip. Gliding across still water, past granite cliffs, secret beaches and oyster leases—it’s a completely different perspective on the park.
You don’t need to be an athlete, but bring some upper body strength and sunscreen. If the wind picks up, it’s a solid paddle back. But the guides were fantastic, and we felt safe the whole time. A beautiful way to start the day or wind it down.
Honeymoon Bay
Top things to do in Coles Bay
Best Places to Swim
(That most visitors miss)
Let’s be honest: the water here is no tropical bath. It’s cold. Bracing. Possibly even screech-inducing. But if you can get past that first icy hit, the swim spots around Coles Bay Tasmania (✓Coles Bay Tasmania) are unforgettable.
Here’s where we rate:
- Honeymoon Bay – This was our front-yard beach at Freycinet Lodge, and it’s a postcard. Sheltered, serene, and glowing with clear water and pink rock. Even better with a cocktail from the bar upstairs.
- Richardsons Beach – Wide, flat and great for swimming or sunning. Start here if you’ve got kids or just want a gentle paddle.
- Muirs Beach – Tucked between the main road and the Coles Bay walking track. Not flashy, but a sweet little spot for a quiet swim and a scenic meander.
- Friendly Beaches – This is where the sand starts feeling like sugar. Wide open, exposed, and windswept. Ideal for beach walking or wave chasing—but make sure your vehicle can handle the potholes on the gravel track in.
Coles Bay
A tip from experience:
The beaches near Coles Bay are beautiful, but they’re no Bay of Fires. The sand here is coarse, flecked with tiny shells and pebbles—great for texture, less great for bare feet. Bring sandals or thongs. You’ll thank me later.
If silky white silica sand is what you’re chasing, skip south and make Friendly Beaches your go-to. You’ll need patience with the road in, but once you’re out there? It’s another world.
Richardsons Beach
Coles Bay restaurants
And other places to eat in Freycinet
If you’re anything like us, your idea of a perfect trip includes a hike with a view, a swim you didn’t plan for, and a damn good meal to round out the day. And if there’s one thing we learned on our Freycinet trip, it’s that this region isn’t just about scenery. It’s also one of the best places in Tasmania to eat seafood so fresh it practically wriggles.
Freycinet Marine Farm – Rustic, salty, and sensational
This was our first food stop and it set the bar high. Don’t be fooled by the modest setup—just a few scattered picnic tables and a corrugated shed out front. The Freycinet Marine Farm is all about the produce.
I ordered the scallops and Zoe went for the mussels, but the real winner was the pickled octopus. Delectable. Salty, tender, bright. We sat out the front licking shells and grinning at each other like fools. They’re licensed, so you can grab a wine or beer to wash it down. Perfect if you’re arriving from Launceston to Freycinet or Hobart to Freycinet and want your first taste of the coast.
Devils Corner Cellar Door – The wine view moment
This one’s a little further out of Coles Bay, but you’d be mad to miss it. Devils Corner Cellar Door has the most glorious view of The Hazards from its deck. You could come just for the wine—Tasmanian Pinot and sparkling are the heroes—but the food’s just as tempting.
Tombolo does woodfired pizzas and Fishers of Freycinet delivers grilled seafood that tastes exactly how a beach holiday should. The oysters are fresh and briny, the chips are crunchy, and the deck’s a sun trap. Time it for lunch if you’re road-tripping in or out of the park. It’s a brilliant pit stop and a total scene-stealer.
Mount Paul Lounge – A surprise omakase worth the detour
I’ll be honest, we weren’t sold on Freycinet Resort. The accommodation was fine—not amazing, and that gravel road is a commitment. But the Mount Paul Lounge? Their food was total redemption.
We booked their Japanese Omakase set dinner on a whim and it turned out to be one of the best meals we’ve had in Tasmania. Sushi with mountain views. Think delicate sashimi, hand-rolled nigiri, and a warm sake that hit just right as the sun dropped behind the hills.
We sat by the glass, watching the sky melt into blues and pinks over the national park. It’s a seasonal thing and they don’t advertise it hard, so call ahead. Trust me. (Insert affiliate link)
Spotlight on Freycinet Lodge
Happy hour views and great bistro fare
We stayed our second night at Freycinet Lodge and honestly, it’s the best base in Coles Bay. But even if you’re not sleeping there, make a beeline for their Hazards Bar around 5pm. Order a couple of espresso martinis, grab a seat on the sunset deck, and let the evening roll in over Honeymoon Bay.
The Bay Restaurant inside Freycient Lodge is classy without being snobby—think Tassie seafood, steaks, and bistro fare—and the setting is five-star. It’s all about the view. This place really nails the resort atmosphere too. You’re perched over the water with granite mountains glowing pink behind you. Hard to top.
Cafes in Coles Bay
Where to grab a bite without a booking
Coles Bay might be small, but it punches above its weight when it comes to laidback local eats. If you’re not up for fine dining or you’re feeding the family on a budget, here are the best casual spots to hit—most within walking distance of accommodation in town.
Freycinet Bakery Cafe
This is your go-to for breakfast and strong coffee before a big walk. Grab a hot bacon and egg roll, one of their flaky house-made pies, or a raspberry tart if you’re feeling sweet. It’s simple, reliable, and open early.
Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar
One of the best places in Coles Bay for casual all-day dining. Think burgers, pasta, wood-fired pizza, and good coffee with water views. It’s a great fallback when the weather turns or you want something easy but decent. They do takeaway too, which is perfect if you’re staying nearby.
Iluka Tavern / Freycinet Tavern
Still listed under both names online, this pub is a local fixture. We grabbed drinks here and scoped the menu—parmas, grilled fish, schnittys and chips. It’s no-frills pub fare with a sea breeze and a deck if you’re lucky with the weather. A solid sunset drink option too.
The Ice Creamery Coles Bay
Zoe made a beeline here after every hike. Tasmanian-made ice cream, generous scoops, and flavours that go beyond vanilla. If you’re travelling with kids, or you’re just a grown adult who deserves a reward after climbing to Wineglass Bay Lookout, this is a no-brainer.
Freycinet Takeaway
Also called “Freycinet Fish & Chips” on Google Maps. This place is your old-school chip shop. Fried scallops, battered flake, and thick-cut chips with chicken salt. Grab it and head to Muirs Beach or the jetty to eat with a view. Just watch the seagulls—they’re ruthless.
👀 Important tip:
Coles Bay has no supermarket. There’s a general store, but prices are steep and the range is limited. If you’re self-catering, stock up in Bicheno or Swansea before you arrive.
When to Visit Freycinet and Coles Bay
Practical Tips, Weather and What to Pack
We visited Freycinet National Park and Coles Bay in early December—right before the school holiday chaos kicks off. And honestly, we couldn’t have timed it better. The days were long and warm, the water (almost) swimmable, and the trails busy but not overrun. If you’re wondering when to visit Freycinet, here’s everything you need to know.
Weather in Freycinet: What to expect
Time your booking around the weather and off-peak seasons (if you can) for cheaper prices. Freycinet has a drier, sunnier microclimate compared to other parts of Tasmania, especially the west coast. But it’s still Tassie. Four seasons in a day? Not uncommon.
Average highs:
- Summer: 20–25°C
- Autumn: 17–22°C
- Winter: 10–14°C
- Spring: 15–20°C
Rain is always a possibility—especially on the coast—so keep that rain jacket handy.
Tip: the Wineglass Bay Lookout trail is very exposed. Go early or late in the day to avoid the heat and the crowds.
The best time to visit Freycinet
Let’s cut to it. The sweet spot for visiting Freycinet is:
- Late November to early December (this is when when went last), or
- Mid-February to early May
You’ll score warm weather, fewer crowds, and cheaper rates on Freycinet accommodation—plus more elbow room on the Wineglass Bay track.
Summer (Dec–Feb) is peak season. Accommodation books out months ahead. Trails are jammed by mid-morning. The upside? It’s hot enough for swimming, the seafood is top-notch, and it’s buzzing.
Autumn (Mar–May) brings cooler nights but clear days and vibrant colour. Perfect for walks, photography and wine tastings.
Winter (Jun–Aug) is the quietest time in Freycinet. Accommodation prices drop, and you can have whole trails to yourself. But the weather’s wild, and some tours shut down. If you’re visiting then, come prepared and double check availability.
Spring (Sep–Nov) is full of wildflowers, fewer visitors, and generally stable weather. September and October can still be cool, but the landscape lights up.
What to pack for Freycinet
Here’s what we actually used—so you don’t overpack:
- Hiking shoes for Wineglass Bay and Mt Amos
- Water sandals or thongs for rocky beaches (trust me, Freycinet sand is not Bay of Fires sand)
- Layers: the wind off the bay can change fast, especially in the late afternoon
- Rain jacket, even in summer
- Swimwear and a towel—even if the water is bracing, Honeymoon Bay and Richardson Beach are hard to resist
- Sunscreen and hat: there’s very little shade on most walks
Smart planning tips from the trail
- Start walks early: the crowds hit Wineglass Bay from 9:30am onwards. Park gates open at 8am—go then.
- Download offline maps: reception in the park is patchy at best. Even Coles Bay Village can drop out.
- Fuel up in Bicheno or Swansea if you’re low—Coles Bay has one small petrol station and it closes early.
- Book tours and restaurants ahead in summer. Paddle Freycinet kayak tours and Mount Paul Lounge dinners sell out fast.
Final travel tip? Stay two nights minimum.
There’s more here than you think. Between the walks, the water, the wildlife and the food, Freycinet and Coles Bay reward those who don’t rush. Even better—stay three nights, and do both kayaking and the cruise. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did.
What to know before you go
Where can I get breakfast in Coles Bay?
There are a couple of great options for breakfast in Coles Bay. Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar is the most reliable local choice, opening early and serving solid espresso and breakfast classics right in the village. If you’re staying at Freycinet Lodge, their buffet breakfast is top notch—just expect a higher price tag.
Is there a bakery in Coles Bay?
Geographe and the Iluka Tavern both serve baked goods and coffee. For a true bakery experience, head to Bicheno (about 30 minutes away), where Blue Edge Bakery offers pies, pastries, and fresh bread.
Where can I find fish and chips in Coles Bay?
There are loads of places to get fish and chips in Coles Bay. The go-to spot – Freycinet Marine Farm is a 5-minute drive out of Coles Bay village into Freycinet Marine Park. But you can also get fish and chips at The Ice Creamery, Geographe, and Iluka Tavern all located in the heart of Coles Bay village. Expect basic but satisfying takeaway—best enjoyed with a view of the Hazards across the bay.
What are the best cafes in Coles Bay?
Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar is the most consistent Coles Bay cafe for quality coffee, and early opening hours. The Iluka Tavern also serves meals and drinks from morning through dinner, but with less of a cafe atmosphere. If you’re craving variety, make a lunch trip to Devils Corner Cellar Door, where Fishers of Freycinet and Tombolo Freycinet do standout seafood and pizza.
What are the main attractions in Coles Bay?
Coles Bay attractions are all about nature. Top sights include the Wineglass Bay Lookout, Cape Tourville Lighthouse Walk, Mt Amos, and the beach at Richardsons Beach. For unique experiences, try a kayak tour with Paddle Freycinet or a Wineglass Bay cruise with lunch . The Hazards mountain range provides the dramatic backdrop for almost every activity.
What is the beach like in Coles Bay?
Coles Bay beach (also known as Richardsons Beach or Muirs Beach depending on where you enter) is a family-friendly, calm bay with views of the Hazards. The sand here is coarser than the east coast’s white silica stretches like Friendly Beaches, but it’s sheltered and perfect for a swim on a warm day. If you want soft sand and wild beauty, drive north to Friendly Beaches.
What are the best places for accommodation in Coles Bay and Freycinet?
For visitors looking for Coles Bay accommodation, Freycinet Lodge is the most iconic option. We stayed in their cabins which are tucked into the bush beside Honeymoon Bay.
Freycinet Resort is more remote, with sweeping views and a top-tier Omakase dining experience at Mount Paul Lounge. We didn’t like the resort as much as we loved Freycient Lodge.
Nearby options also include holiday homes, accommodation near Coles Bay in Dolphin Sands, and cabins in Coles Bay via BIG4 Iluka.
What is the best route from Bicheno to Coles Bay?
Take the Coles Bay Road turn-off from the Tasman Highway (A3) just south of Bicheno. It’s about 38 km, mostly sealed and scenic, with views of Oyster Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula. No fuel stations in Coles Bay, so fill up in Bicheno if needed.