Friendly Beaches, Tasmania - Endless White Sand & Coastal Wilderness in Freycinet National Park

Wander * Explore * Discover
Oct 14, 2021
3 min read

Updated: 22 hours ago

Friendly Beaches, Tasmania - Endless White Sand & Coastal Wilderness in Freycinet National Park

Friendly Beaches is a stunning stretch of unspoilt coastline located on the Freycinet Peninsula on Tasmania’s East Coast. This 140-hectare coastal reserve features a long sweep of white sand backed by dunes and coastal bush, offering a peaceful escape from busier parts of the national park.

As part of Freycinet National Park, Friendly Beaches showcases everything the region is known for — dramatic pink granite peaks, secluded bays, pristine beaches and wide-open coastal scenery overlooking the Tasman Sea. It’s a place to slow down, breathe in the sea air and enjoy Tasmania’s coastline at its most natural.

Friendly Beaches: One of Tasmania’s

Great Short Walks

Friendly Beaches is officially recognised as one of the 60 Great Short Walks of Tasmania. Rather than a single defined track, it’s a flexible coastal walk where you can choose how far — or how little — you want to explore.

The Walk Details

Distance: From 100 metres up to 5 kilometres (one way) - Time: Anywhere from 5 minutes to several hours - Grade: Grade 2 (easy)

This walk is suitable for most ages and fitness levels, making it perfect for relaxed beach walks or longer coastal rambles.

What to Expect at Friendly Beaches

From the day-use area, step straight onto the sand and begin walking along the gently curving shoreline. The beach stretches for kilometres in both directions, with rocky outcrops, rolling dunes and uninterrupted ocean views.

Friendly Beaches is an excellent spot for birdwatching, with many coastal birds often seen along the shoreline. It’s also a wonderful place to simply sit, relax and watch the waves roll in, far from crowds and noise.

Facilities & Practical Information

Parking is available near the day-use area
Public toilets are located near the car park
No picnic tables or BBQ facilities
No mobile phone coverage

Whether you choose a short stroll or a long beach walk, Friendly Beaches offers a wonderfully flexible experience.

How to Get to Friendly Beaches

Friendly Beaches is approximately 2.5 to 3 hours’ drive from both Hobart and Launceston. From the Tasman Highway (A3), turn onto Coles Bay Road (C302), about 12 kilometres south of Bicheno. After around 9 kilometres on Coles Bay Road, turn onto the gravel road signposted for Friendly Beaches. The gravel road leads to the day-use area and beach access.

Camping at Friendly Beaches

We camped in our motorhome at Friendly Beaches Campground, a beautiful spot close to the beach and sheltered by coastal vegetation. Stays are permitted for up to 14 nights, with toilets located near the day-use area. Camping is free, and the turn-off is around 19 kilometres before Coles Bay and the main Freycinet National Park entrance.

More Places to Explore Nearby

While visiting Friendly Beaches, consider exploring other Freycinet highlights, including Wineglass Bay & Hazards Beach, Sleepy Bay, Cape Tourville, Honeymoon Bay, Coles Bay, and Moulting Lagoon, a wetland sanctuary for migrating birds.

Is Friendly Beaches Worth Visiting?

Friendly Beaches offers one of the most peaceful coastal experiences in Freycinet National Park. With its endless white sand, open space and relaxed walking options, it’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy Tasmania’s East Coast away from the crowds.

Whether you stop for a short wander or spend hours exploring the shoreline, Friendly Beaches is a beautiful and underrated gem well worth visiting.