Bivouac Bay, Tasmania - Coastal Forests, Secluded Bays & Tasman Peninsula Scenery

Wander * Explore * Discover
Oct 16, 2021
4 min read

Updated: 1 day ago

Bivouac Bay, Tasmania - Coastal Forests, Secluded Bays & Tasman Peninsula Scenery

Bivouac Bay is a beautiful coastal walk on the Tasman Peninsula, a rugged region in southeast Tasmania known for its towering sea cliffs, sheltered bays and striking blue waters. While less dramatic than some of the peninsula’s cliff-top hikes, this walk offers a wonderful mix of beaches, forest trails and peaceful coastal scenery.

As one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks, the Bivouac Bay Track is a rewarding option for those looking to experience the peninsula’s natural beauty at a slightly gentler pace, while still enjoying a sense of adventure and remoteness.

Bivouac Bay - One of Tasmania’s Great Short Walks

The Bivouac Bay walk is officially recognised as one of the 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania. It’s a varied hike that combines sandy beach walking, forest sections, suspension bridges and quiet bays — making it a great choice for walkers wanting diversity without extreme exposure.

The Walk Details

Distance: 10 kilometres return - Time: Allow 4 hours - Grade: Grade 3 (moderate)

The walk begins at Fortescue Bay Beach in Tasman National Park.

What to Expect on the Bivouac Bay Track

The walk starts with a scenic stroll along Fortescue Bay Beach, where you’ll cross a small creek near the shoreline. Take care here, as the rocks can be slippery, especially after rain.

At the end of the beach, look for the Great Short Walks sign and follow the track as it climbs gently through eucalyptus forest and continues along the coastline. This section is rocky and undulating, offering glimpses of the ocean through the trees before descending towards Canoe Bay.

Canoe Bay & the Wreck of the William Pitt

After around an hour of walking, you’ll arrive at Canoe Bay, a lovely spot to stop, rest and enjoy the coastal views. Just offshore, you can spot the sunken wreck of The William Pitt dredge resting at the edge of the bay — a fascinating reminder of the area’s maritime history.

Forest Trails, Suspension Bridge & Ridge Views

From Canoe Bay, the track continues along the coastline before reaching the suspension bridge over Walker Creek. Cross the bridge and follow the trail through a beautiful forest of blue gums and tree ferns.

After approximately 1.5 kilometres of steep, rocky climbing, you’ll reach the top of a ridgeline. From here, the track descends around 600 metres before joining the Bivouac Bay track. There’s one final steep climb before the trail drops down into the sheltered beauty of Bivouac Bay.

Bivouac Bay & Creek

At Bivouac Bay, take time to relax and enjoy the peaceful setting beside Bivouac Creek. The bay feels wonderfully secluded, making it an ideal place to pause, enjoy a snack or simply soak in the quiet surroundings. Toilets and camping areas are available at Bivouac Bay, making it a popular overnight spot for walkers and kayakers. The return walk follows the same track back to Fortescue Bay.

Important Notes Before You Go

Register your walk: Sign in at the information area at Fortescue Bay before starting.
Facilities: Toilets and BBQs are available at Fortescue Bay.
National Parks Pass: A valid Tasmanian National Parks Pass is required and can be purchased at the day-use area.
Track conditions: Sections of the track are rocky and uneven, with some steep climbs and descents.
Kookaburra at Fortescue Bay
Pacific Gull at Fortescue Bay
Currawong at Fortescue Bay

How to Get to Fortescue Bay

From Hobart, drive along the Tasman Highway to Sorell, then take the Arthur Highway to Taranna. Continue for approximately 5 kilometres past Taranna until you reach Fortescue Road on the left.

Follow Fortescue Road for 12 kilometres to Fortescue Bay and Tasman National Park. The road is unsealed but suitable for 2WD vehicles; however, it can be slippery when wet, so drive carefully.

Camping at Fortescue Bay

We stayed at Mill Creek Campground, which has around 23 larger sites suitable for campervans and motorhomes. Facilities include toilets, coin-operated showers and BBQs at the nearby day-use area. The area is rich in wildlife and birdlife, making it a great spot for birdwatchers and photographers. Bookings are recommended from November to April, and tent camping is also available at Banksia Mill Campground.

Final Thoughts: Is the Bivouac Bay Walk Worth It?

The Bivouac Bay walk is a nice coastal hike that showcases a quieter side of the Tasman Peninsula. With a mix of beaches, forest trails, historic shipwreck views and a secluded bay destination, it’s a fantastic option for walkers wanting variety without extreme cliff exposure.

If you’re exploring the Tasman Peninsula and looking for a scenic, well-rounded walk, Bivouac Bay is well worth adding to your itinerary.