Soak in Stanley
The Nut, the view, the oceans blueOur savvy guide to scenic Stanley Tasmania 🦞
What is Stanley Tasmania famous for?
Stanley, perched at the western end of Tasmania’s rugged north-west coast, is far more than just its famous landmark, The Nut. This ancient volcanic plug, towering 143 meters above the town, is a must-visit for the jaw-dropping views alone.
You can either conquer the steep hike to the top or float up effortlessly on The Nut Chairlift for unbeatable vistas of the surrounding coast and countryside.
But here’s something you might not know: Stanley’s history runs deep. Beyond the quaint colonial buildings, Highfield Historic Site unveils the roots of Tasmania’s European settlement, and is still surprisingly under-the-radar for many visitors. And there’s the secret history of Joe Lyons Cottage 👉🏽
Seafood lovers, take note. Stanley is all about Tasmania’s freshest ocean fare, with local crayfish the undisputed star of the show. The fish n chips ain’t half bad either.
Pair the history, nature, and a seafood dinner, and you’ve got yourself a destination that’s as rich in experience as it is in surprises. So let’s get into where to go and what to do in Stanley.
Did you know 🤔 : Stanley is also home to Joe Lyons Cottage, birthplace of Australia’s only Tasmanian-born Prime Minister.
Joseph Lyons (nicknamed ‘Honest Joe’) was Australia’s 10th Prime Minister in Office for 7 years from 1932 to 1939 and is the first Prime Minister to die in Office from a heart attack in 1939.
Hidden gem 💎: Make sure you visit Joe Lyons Cottage while in Stanley. It’s a hidden gem historic site that shares the birthplace, childhood and rise of Joe Lyons from small town teacher in Tasmania, to the nation’s leader.
Is Stanley Tasmania worth Visiting?
Yes! for these views from ‘the nut’
The Nut is a striking geographic formation that dates back a cool 50 – 70 million years and an iconic attraction in Tasmania’s north west. Here’s 5 reasons to jump in your hire car and scoot off to Stanley to see it:
1. Epic Volcanic Origins: The Nut is actually an ancient volcanic plug that towers 143 meters high, offering killer views of the epic rural landscape of rolling green hills around Stanley and inland.
2. Chairlift Thrills: Skip the steep hike and ride the chairlift to The Nut’s summit for a chill, scenic ascent with vistas that’ll light up your Instagram feed.
3. Coastal Panoramas: From the top of The Nut, soak in insane 360-degree views stretching across Bass Strait and along the rugged northwest coast of Tasmania—perfect for those epic sunset shots.
4. Historic Vibes: Discovered by explorers in the early 1800s, The Nut sits next to Stanley, a cute little seaside town that vibes off its colonial history, reputation for seafood, and cool spots like heritage-listed Highfield House.
5. Wonderful wildlife: When you do get up the top there’s an easy loop walk around The Nut with the opportunity to see pademelons, Bennett’s wallabies and Short-tailed Shearwaters (muttonbirds) that migrate and nest up there.
Views north west to Bass Strait
Ride the chairlift up and walk down
From The Nut chairlift
What to do in Stanley Tasmania
1. The Nut, Of course!
A huge volcanic plug called The Nut? We’re in! You’ve got to see it, conquer it, marvel at it. And at the expansive views of Bass Strait along the north west coast of Tasmania, from the top. And let’s face it, it’s the main reason people drive this far north west!
2. Seafood by the (Hur)sea
If you don’t try the fresh lobster here, did you really visit Tassie? Some of the best you’ll find on this seafood haven of an island is at Hursey Seafoods (everyone thinks its Hersheys Seafood – it’s not!) in Stanley. This restaurant is a dead set Tassie institution. Shell out, shell off, and tuck in. Book ahead.
3. Pitter patter Penguins
You can see fairy penguins in Stanley – for free! Just head down to Harrison Terrace at Godfrey’s Beach at sun down. There’s a floating boardwalk out to the viewing spot. It’s right at the base of The Nut. The penguins start waddling up the beach just on dark. The best thing about seeing the penguins in Stanley is the red lights they have installed so you can actually see the penguins in the dark. You don’t need to bring your own!
4. Highfalutin Highfield house
Perched on the hill above Godfrey’s Beach like the ex-estate of a rich overlord, Highfield House in Stanley is a must visit. Read the fascinating story of the Van Diemen’s Land Company inside to understand how Stanley was settled and it’s historic role in Tassie’s trade with the mainland. The views back to The Nut will leave you gaping in awe at how beautiful the charming little seaside hamlet of Stanley Tasmania is!
5. Shop Providore 24
If you’re looking for a souvenir of gift from Tasmania, Providore 24 has an incredible bounty of Tasmanian made produce and products. We love the olive bread and jars of everything you could think of, but it’s not all food. It’s a beautiful shop to just gawk at cool stuff made by clever locals.

ICONIC Tassie - The NUT
The Nut is iconic for it’s imposing position on the northwest coastline and for its commanding views over both sea and land.

Providore 24
Our favourite shop in Stanley. Great for picnic hampers, souvenirs to remember your trip, or a unique made-in-Tassie gift for family and friends.
Highfield House
Here’s 3 reasons to hit up historic Highfield House:
1. Colonial Vibes: Highfield House, dating back to the 1830s, is a well-preserved example of early colonial architecture in Tasmania. Built by the Van Diemen’s Land Company, it’s a present day nod to the grand British colonial style and ambitions of early settlers here.
2. Restored Glory: This place has been meticulously restored to its former glory, letting you peek into the swanky lifestyle of the 19th-century elite. With period furnishings, cool historic artifacts, and detailed craftsmanship, it’s like stepping back in time.
3. More Views: This time of The Nut. Perched on a nearby hill, Highfield House has gobsmacking views back towards The Nut, the north west Tasmanian coastline, and over Stanley. The lush gardens and expansive grounds make it a perfect spot for some Insta-worthy shots and a chill day out.
5 more fun things to do in Stanley
1. Grab breakfast at a Stanley Cafe
Our favourite Stanley cafes are Touchwood Cafe – for the giant scones with jam & cream & Marleys @ Sticks & Stones Shells & Bones for the hearty cooked breakfast.
2. Seal watching tour
Jump on a boat tour and cruise to Bull Rock for a close-up with playful fur seals. Watch these ocean acrobats bask in the sun and dive into crystal-clear waters. It’s a wild adventure you won’t forget.
3. Wander Stanley’s heritage walk
Discover the town’s rich history, beautifully preserved colonial buildings, and the local stories that shaped Stanley into today’s picturesque coastal village.
4. Explore the surrounds
Walk the jagged cliffs of Rocky Cape National Park, explore the coves and bays or Crayfish Creek. Take a drive to Smithton for a dozen of their famous Tarkine Fresh Oysters or a tasting plate at La Cantara Artisan Cheeses.
5. Grab the ‘Jesus’ handle honey
Get your adrenaline fix with a 4WD tour into the rugged Tarkine wilderness. Have lunch in the Tarkine’s ancient rainforests, explore hidden waterfalls, and soak in the raw beauty of one of Tassie’s most untouched spots.
Accommodation in Stanley Tasmania
Our insider picks for the best accommodation in Stanley

Camping & Caravan Parks in Stanley
What to know:
Where to camp or caravan – Big4 Stanley Holiday Park, near the base of The Nut is ground zero for caravan parks in Stanley. You’ll find powered and unpowered sites, as well as cabins. By comparison with other parks in Tasmania, the motels rooms and cabins are tired & dated and the room prices don’t reflect this. It’s a little pricey in our book. But the location might have you looking past the 1980s interiors.
Without doubt, the best thing about this caravan park in Stanley is the location. It’s basic accommodation with incredible views of Stanley’s coastline, pristine beaches, and the iconic Nut.
Facilities – The park is well-equipped with amenities like showers, toilets, BBQ areas, and a camp kitchen.
Booking & Costs – We recommend booking ahead, especially in peak tourist seasons. Prices for powered and unpowered sites are reasonable, but they vary, so check the park’s website for current rates.
Camping weather – Stanley can get windy due to its coastal location, so campers should be prepared for wild weather, particularly during the winter months
Pet-Friendly Stanley accommodation – Stanley Cabin and Tourist Park is totally pet-friendly, making it a great choice if you’re traveling with your furry companion. Just make sure to check specific rules and conditions ahead of time.
Hotels in Stanley
Stanley Hotel & Apartments $$: Located in the heart of the town, the Stanley Hotel is popular for its views, gorgeous gardens and cosy rooms. There are also one, two and four bedroom cottages with loads of character and space for a family or travelling – try to book the ones with sea views for an authentic Stanley experience. There’s a restaurant on site that reportedly serves up delicious meals but we haven’t tried it.
Suits: Budget travellers, families & travelling groups.The queen room price will impress!
Self contained accommodation in Stanley
There is plenty of self contained accommodation in Stanley for large families, travelling groups or longer stays. We’ve broken it down to ‘best by price’, views and location. So you don’t have to spend hours searching and comparing yourself:
💰 Budget 💰
Nine on Main – A softly lit one bedroom cottage retreat, with a full kitchen, coffee pod machine, comfortable lounge and free Wifi, you can comfortably stay here longer than a couple of days.
Just around the corner from the main shops and cafes, walking distance to the Nut and penguins at Godfrey’s Beach, it’s a central location too.
For the quality of furnishings, space, and location, Nine on Main is really great value.
Suits: Cute couples cooking in.
💰💰💰 High end 💰💰💰
The Inlet – Sleek, modern 1 bedroom apartments with towering ceilings, giant picture windows and warm timber accents in an absolute beachfront property.
Yes, we know it sounds amazing. That’s because it is!
And so are the sunsets from your front deck here.
The property is located on the way in to Stanley and sits among the sand dunes with private beach access directly out front. It’s the most peaceful and relaxing of all our Stanley accommodation choices, because it’s tucked away outside of town.
The Inlet is fully self catering, but they also like to surprise guests with wine and a cheeseboard. Sshhh! Don’t say we told you…

Luxury Accommodation Stanley Tasmania
Our favourite picks for a luxury stay in Stanley

Romantic accommodation in Stanley
Stanley’s most romantic accommodation is a tight race between two contrasting but equally impressive and memorable stays.
1) The Ship Inn Cape Grim Apartment, choose this place for opulent romance, whimsical feels, bright but cozy vibes. The Ship Inn evokes what is best about Stanely; it’s heritage, it’s seafaring ways, it’s unparallelled peninsular position.
And then there’s the suite itself. It’s picture perfect. Textural white walls, towering raked ceilings, rustic exposed timber beams, the most gorgeous old red brick fireplace you’ve ever seen and sneaky views of the beach, ocean and beyond. Eeek!
Suits: Classy romantics. Cuddle up here with your loved one and feel the world melt away.
2) Horizon Delux Apartments Luxury Suite
The Luxury Suite at Horizon Delux Apartments has Stanley’s best big views of the Nut and surrounding ocean and countryside. It’s the perfect place to sip champagne on the deck at sunset, or for slow morning sunrises best seen from bed.
Oh, and from the spa bath.
Yes, this is Stanley’s most romantic accommodation with a spa bath that looks out over gobsmacking views of the Nut and all of Stanley.
You’ll be picking your jaw up off the floor and yelling ‘dibs on the bubbles’ as soon as you spy the inside. The interior design is modern, somewhat garish in my humble opinion. But horses for courses – you may love it! And the views and the spa more than make up for any decor indiscretions.
Suits: Spa bath experience afficionados.

Luxury accommodation in Stanley
There’s really only one choice for absolute luxury accommodation in Stanley, one that stands head and shoulders above the rest. So much so that if you find some dates available here, book them immediately.
Ship Inn Stanley $$$$$ This really is an exceptional boutique hotel, and one of the newest additions to Stanley’s accommodation options. It’s where we stayed on a sneaky Stanley getaway for a special occassion and it worth every penny. We love its carefully curated maritime theme and plush interiors, which make staying at the Ship Inn cottages a luxurious yet comfy experience.
Everything is thought of, down to the last detail.
The Apartment with Sea View is the pinnacle of luxury accommodation in Stanley – immaculately executed with faultless presentation. Everything about it is beautiful, textural, calm and yet stately.
But all of their 9 cottages or apartments are superb. They’ve bought next level luxury stays to Stanley, and we’re big fans.
Suits: Honey moon-ers, special occasions, surprise getaways. Treat yourself, you won’t regret it.
In case there is no availability at the Ship Inn we’ve nominated a runner up outstanding luxury accommodation.
The Inlet is a beautiful luxury stay in Stanley.
The apartments here are sleek and modern, yet warm and inviting with lots of gorgeous timber throughout. What we get most excited about are the giant ceilings, the momentous picture windows, and the incredible beach views and sunsets they frame.
The beach is just outside, the luxury is everywhere within. Book here if the Ship Inn is full.
Suits: peaceful, realxing escape seekers
What shops are in Stanley
For a small seaside village, Stanley is spread out. But small at the same time. So it’s good to know where the shops are, before you go. Here are 4 fun Stanley shops to check out:
- Providore 24 – classy boutique vibes, packed with Tasmanian produce & gifts. We always call in here on any trip to Stanley.
- The Brown Dog – charming little gift shop with locally made homewares and hand picked Tasmanian products. Oh, and a cute cafe too.
- Gear Up Stanley – for adventure-lovers. Hire E-Bikes, paddle boards & surf boards.
- The Angels Share (wine & whiskey shop/bar) – purveyor of Tasmanian spirits. Whiskeys galore and tastings available.
- Stanley Village Gallery -find contemporary art pieces by local artists. This is where you can really appreciate the creative pulse of Tasmania’s northwest, with everything from paintings to glasswork and sculpture. It’s a hidden gem for art lovers.
Stanley Travel FAQs
Where is Stanley in Tasmania?
Stanley is on the North West Coast of Tasmania, along Bass Strait.
It’s a 2.5 hour drive north west of Launceston, or an hour’s drive west of Devonport. Stanley sits just off the Bass Highway, connecting the major towns along the north west coast with Launceston.
Is Stanley Tasmania worth visiting?
Yes. Stanley is one of our favourite towns in North West Tasmania and definitely worth visiting. Why?
1. The iconic attraction, The Nut and it’s epic 360 views.
2. Gorgeous beaches and delicious seafood.
3. Proximity to the Tarkine’s ancient rainforests.
4. Proximity to Rocky Cape National Park.
5. It’s a pretty, charming seaside village and excellent spot to relax.
How to get to Stanley Tasmania
Most holiday makers to Tasmania either bring or rent a car, arriving in Devonport, Launceston or Hobart. If you’re driving, Stanely is an easy and scenic 1.5 hour drive from Devonport along the coast of north west Tasmania.
It’s a 2.5 hour drive from Launceston to Stanley and 4.5hours or 400km from Hobart to Stanley.
If you don’t have a car, you can also take the bus to Stanely Tasmani from any of these three cities. Here’s how to catch the bus to Stanley:
Hobart (700 or 702) -> Launceston (705) -> Devonport (708) -> Burnie (768) -> Stanley.
From all cities, you take the bus to Burnie first then transfer to the route 768 bus from Burnie to Smithon. The 768 bus stops in Stanley.
What to see in Stanley Tasmania
In this order, the three best things to see in Stanley Tasmania are:
1. The Nut
2. Godfrey Beach Fairy Penguins
3. Highfield House
Are there Penguins in Stanley Tasmania?
Yes there are Penguins in Stanley! To see them, head down to Harrison Terrace at the base of the Nut and you’ll see the Godfrey’s Beach Penguin viewing platform. The Penguins are best spotted just on dark. The great thing about seeing Penguins in Stanley is that they have installed red lights around the viewing platform so you can see the Penguins without scaring them off. And you don’t have to worry about bringing your own!
Driving from Stanley to Cradle Mountain
The drive from Stanley to Cradle Mountain is around 180km on sealed roads.
There’s a direct route that takes 2.5 hours, and a scenic route – depending how much time you have.
The most direct route takes you behind Burnie and through Guildford onto the Murchison Highway. If you do go this way, take a detour to Waratah for lunch at the Waratah Pub. Then scoot off to Philosopher Falls just 12 minutes drive (gravel road) out of Waratah. The walk into the Falls is short and has the funkiest fungi we’ve ever seen in Tassie!
The scenic route takes you west along the Bass Highway. Call into Penguin for fish and chips or a coffee – it’s another cute little village on the north west coast. Then there’s a stunning coastal drive from Penguin to Ulverstone where you’ll see the best of the north west Tasmania coastline. From Ulverstone, you head inland towards Castra and Wilmot through gorgeous rolling green countryside. From Wilmot it’s straight through drive to Cradle Mountain.
What is Stanley Tasmania known for?
Stanley is known for several attractions that draw in travellers:
1. **The Nut** – Stanley’s most iconic feature is The Nut, a volcanic plug 143 meters high, overlooking Stanley township. You can either hike to the top for panoramic views of the coastline or take the Nut Chairlift for the cheats ascent. 😀 Up top there’s not only the chance to see spectacular views, there’s also walking tracks and a chance to see local wildlife.
2. **Historic Sites** – Stanley has a strong farming history associated with sheep export to the mainland. There are charming colonial buildings and landmarks like **Highfield Historic Site**, an estate dating back to the early 1800s. It gives visitors a glimpse into Tasmania’s European settlement.
3. **Seafood and Dining** – Stanley is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly the local crayfish, making it a perfect stop for food lovers. Many restaurants in the area specialize in serving fresh, locally sourced produce.