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Top 10 Things to Do on the Tasman Peninsula - Tasmania
- Oct 24, 2021
- 4 min read
Updated: Jan 30
Top 10 Things to Do on the Tasman Peninsula - Tasmania
The Tasman Peninsula lies in southeast Tasmania, just over one hour’s drive from Hobart, yet it feels wonderfully remote and wild. Connected to the mainland by the narrow isthmus of Eaglehawk Neck, the peninsula is defined by towering sea cliffs, powerful ocean swells, dramatic rock formations, and some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery in Australia.
From convict history and geological wonders to epic coastal hikes, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable sunsets, the Tasman Peninsula is a destination that delivers both beauty and depth. Here are the top 10 things to do on the Tasman Peninsula — experiences that truly showcase what makes this region so special.
Explore the Port Arthur Historic Site
The Port Arthur Historic Site is one of Australia’s most important heritage attractions and a must-visit on the Tasman Peninsula. This former convict settlement is remarkably well preserved, offering a powerful insight into Tasmania’s colonial past.
Your entry ticket allows access for two consecutive days, giving you time to explore the 40-hectare landscaped grounds, which contain more than 30 historic buildings and ruins. Highlights include the imposing penitentiary, solitary prison, commandant’s house, and the haunting roofless church. Interpretive signs, guided tours, and harbour cruises bring the stories of the site to life.
Visit Remarkable Cave
Remarkable Cave is one of the peninsula’s most photographed natural features — and for good reason. Viewed from the lookout, the cave’s opening famously resembles the shape of Tasmania.
Once a deep, enclosed sea cave, relentless wave action caused the roof to collapse, leaving behind a dramatic rock bridge carved into the sandstone cliffs. Waves surge through the opening below, creating a powerful and mesmerising display. The cave is best viewed at low tide, when its shape is most clearly defined.
Marvel at the Tessellated Pavement
The Tessellated Pavement at Eaglehawk Neck is one of Tasmania’s most unique geological phenomena. Extremely rare worldwide, this natural rock formation looks like a perfectly laid stone floor, with sandstone fractured into geometric, tile-like blocks.
Two distinct patterns can be seen here — the pan formation, with shallow, dish-like depressions, and the loaf formation, where raised blocks protrude above the surface. It’s best visited at low tide, when the patterns are fully exposed and easy to appreciate.
Discover Tasman Arch
Tasman Arch is the spectacular remnant of a massive sea cave carved over thousands of years by relentless ocean forces. The cave’s roof eventually collapsed, leaving behind the dramatic natural arch you see today.
From the lookout, you can watch waves rush beneath the arch, compressed air and water surging through the opening. The surrounding coastline is equally impressive, with sheer cliffs and crashing seas showcasing the raw power of nature.
Step Back in Time at the Coal Mines Historic Site
Often quieter than Port Arthur but just as fascinating, the Coal Mines Historic Site offers a more rugged and atmospheric glimpse into Tasmania’s convict past.
Established in 1833, this remote site housed reoffending convicts who endured harsh conditions while mining coal under strict supervision. Today, you can wander among more than 25 substantial ruins, including underground cells, mine shafts, and solitary confinement structures, all set against a windswept coastal backdrop.
The hike to Cape Hauy is one of the Tasman Peninsula’s most popular and rewarding coastal walks. This 9.4-kilometre Grade 3 return hike follows a well-formed track with more than 4,500 stone steps, undulating through coastal heath and forest.
The reward comes at the viewing platform, where you’ll see the dramatic dolerite columns of Cape Hauy and the iconic Totem Pole — a narrow sea stack rising 65 metres high from the ocean below.
Wander to Waterfall Bay
The Waterfall Bay walk is an easy but spectacular 3.4-kilometre return walk that takes around 90 minutes. The wide, gently undulating track passes through coastal heath to a lookout with breathtaking views across cliff-lined bays.
After heavy rain, a seasonal waterfall plunges directly from the cliffs into the ocean, creating one of the most unique waterfall sights in Tasmania.
Watch the Birds at Fortescue Bay
Fortescue Bay is not only a beautiful beach and camping area but also a fantastic place for birdwatching. The sheltered bay, surrounding forest, and open coastline attract a wide variety of species.
During our visit, we spotted Pacific Gulls, Pied Oystercatchers, Black Currawongs, and Kookaburras, among many others. It’s a peaceful place to sit, observe, and enjoy Tasmania’s rich birdlife.
For experienced hikers, the Cape Raoul Track is one of the most challenging and rewarding walks on the peninsula. This 14-kilometre Grade 4 return hike takes around 5 hours and leads to the southernmost point of the Tasman Peninsula.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of towering sea cliffs, deep ocean chasms, and rugged headlands. At Seal Bay lookout, keep an eye out for seals basking on the rocks below.
Watch the Sunset
There’s no better way to end a day on the Tasman Peninsula than watching the sunset over the ocean. As the sky fills with colour and the cliffs are bathed in golden light, the peninsula’s dramatic landscape feels even more magical.
We enjoyed an unforgettable sunset while staying near Sunset Bay, but there are countless coastal spots across the peninsula where you can pause, reflect, and take it all in.
Why the Tasman Peninsula Is Unmissable
The Tasman Peninsula is a destination that truly has it all — powerful history, rare geological wonders, world-class coastal hikes, abundant wildlife, and scenery that stays with you long after you leave. Whether you’re visiting for a day or spending several nights exploring its hidden corners, this remarkable region is one of Tasmania’s most unforgettable places.
If you’re planning a Tasmania road trip, make sure the Tasman Peninsula is high on your list — it’s an experience you won’t soon forget.
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