Cape Raoul Hike Tasmania

Cape Raoul Hike - Tasmania

Cape Raoul is a spectacular coastal walk on the rugged Tasman Peninsula in southeastern Tasmania, an area famed for its towering cliffs, secluded bays, and the deep blue waters of the Southern Ocean. The coastline here is dramatic and unspoiled, with sheer dolerite cliffs rising straight from the ocean, offering some of the most breathtaking views in Tasmania. Along the track, you’ll experience a mix of cliff-top vantage points, windswept heathlands, and native bush, all of which showcase the raw beauty of this remote corner of the island.

As part of our mission to complete all 60 of Tasmania’s Great Short Walks, we tackled Cape Raoul — a 14-kilometre return walk and the longest so far in our journey. The length and rugged terrain make it a more challenging adventure, but the incredible coastal vistas, striking rock formations, and the sense of remoteness make every step worthwhile.

Views from Cape Raoul

View from Lookout Cape Raoul

Cape Raoul Seal Bay

The Cape Raoul Walk is one of the 60 Great

Short Walks of Tasmania

The Walk - 14 kilometres Return - 5 Hours - Grade 4

At the start of the track, there is an information board and a book to register your walk, clean your boots and follow the trail.

At the beginning of the walk, you pass over several sections of duckboards, then walk mostly uphill through the Stringybark trees and Blue Gum forest.

After walking for about half an hour (approx. 2 kilometres), you’ll reach the Cape Raoul lookout with stunning views of the coastline and the deep blue water of the Tasman Sea.

From the lookout, it is almost a continuous windy descent downhill to Cape Raoul, with several switchbacks and steps. This section is an excellent walk to Cape Raoul and pretty tough on the way back.

After walking through the covered forest, the track emerges back onto the coastline with more amazing views.

You then walk through a section of low coastal scrubby heath before you catch a glimpse of the tall walls of fluted Dolerite along the cliffs.

The track then opens to a rocky area with great views of the cliffs and several lookout spots. It's a nice spot to stop for a snack and some photos.

You then continue over the duckboard path and through the low-lying bush and coastal heathland to the Cape Raoul and Seal Bay lookouts. You will pass a large tarn, which on our hike was full of water and looked terrific.

Along the track, you come to a sign with two options: Seal Rock Lookout or Cape Raoul Lookout; both are about 5 5-minute walk.

Seal Rock Lookout

Seal Rock Lookout is one of the highlights along the Cape Raoul track, offering spectacular panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the sheer dolerite cliffs of the cape. From this vantage point, you can often see or hear seals resting and basking on the rocks far below, their presence adding a lively touch to the dramatic seascape. On clear days, the lookout provides sweeping views across the Southern Ocean, with waves crashing against the cliffs and rock formations, making it a perfect spot to pause, take photos, or simply soak in the power and beauty of Tasmania’s wild coastline.

Cape Raoul Lookout

Cape Raoul Lookout is the crowning highlight of the hike, offering breathtaking views straight down to the rugged cliffs and the waves of the Tasman Sea far below. From this elevated vantage point, you can take in the sheer scale of the dolerite cliffs that rise dramatically from the ocean, the jagged coastline stretching into the distance, and the ever-changing colours of the Southern Ocean. It’s a perfect spot to pause, soak in the scenery, and appreciate the raw, untamed beauty of Tasmania’s southeast coast — a view that rewards every step of the hike.

Tips for Hiking Cape Raoul

• Register your walk: For safety, remember to register your hike at the information hut at the start of the track. This also helps park rangers keep track of visitors on the trail.

• Clean your boots: To protect Tasmania’s unique environment, make sure to clean your boots before starting the hike to prevent the spread of soil-borne pathogens.

• Facilities: Toilets are available near the car parking area, but there are no facilities along the track itself, so plan accordingly.

• National Park Pass: A valid Tasmanian National Parks pass is required to access the trail. Passes can be purchased online before your visit.

• Trail conditions and safety: The Cape Raoul track is longer and more challenging than many other short walks, with uneven surfaces and exposed cliff sections. Wear sturdy footwear, carry plenty of water, and check the weather before heading out.

Pink Berries Tasmania

white flowers in Tasmania

Pigface plant in Tasmania

Directions to Cape Raoul Walking Track

From Port Arthur, travel along the Arthur Highway until it becomes Nubeena Road.

Continue along Nubeena Road, then turn left onto Stormlea Road.

Follow this road to the end; this road is sealed except for the last kilometre. You will then reach the carpark and the start of the walking track.

More Places to Explore

Tasman Arch, Remarkable Cave, Bivouac Bay, Pirates Bay, Fortescue Bay, Devil's Kitchen, Tessellated Pavement, Tasman Arch, The Blowhole, Crescent Bay, Fossil Bay Lookout, Coal Mines Historic Site, Cape Pillar and Cape Hauy.

Click here to see our favourite things to do on the

Tasman Peninsula.

Click here for more things to do and see in Tasmania.