Waterfall Bay, Tasmania - Dramatic Cliffs & A Waterfall to the Sea

Oct 17, 2021
3 min read

Updated: Jan 28

Waterfall Bay, Tasmania - Dramatic Cliffs & A Waterfall to the Sea

Perched on the rugged Tasman Peninsula, Waterfall Bay is one of Tasmania’s most spectacular coastal lookouts. This short but memorable walk leads you along dramatic clifftops to sweeping views across a deep, cliff-lined bay — and, after rain, a remarkable waterfall that plunges straight into the ocean from nearly 200 metres above.

It’s a perfect example of why the Tasman Peninsula is so special, showcasing some of the highest sea cliffs in Australia alongside raw, untamed coastal beauty.

Tasmania’s Coast at Its Wildest

The real highlight of the Waterfall Bay walk is the coastline itself. Jagged dolerite cliffs drop sharply into the Southern Ocean, waves crash far below, and seabirds glide effortlessly along the cliff faces.

After good rainfall, a thin ribbon of water spills over the cliffs on the far side of the bay, creating the iconic Waterfall Bay waterfall. It’s a fleeting but unforgettable sight — one that changes with the seasons and weather, making every visit slightly different.

The Waterfall Bay Walk – What to Expect

Distance: 3.4 kilometres return - Time: Around 90 minutes - Grade: 3

The Waterfall Bay Walk is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. The track begins at the Tasman Arch car park and follows a wide, well-formed path through open eucalypt forest. The walk is gently undulating and easy to follow, making it accessible while still delivering big scenery.

Along the way, there are seven lookouts, each offering a slightly different perspective of the coastline and the unique geological formations that define the Tasman Peninsula.

Paterson's Arch and Coastal Geology

After around 1 kilometre, you’ll reach the lookout for Paterson's Arch. This impressive natural rock bridge may be smaller than the nearby Tasman Arch, but it’s no less dramatic.

Looking down from the platform, you’ll notice the rocky shoreline below displays patterns similar to the Tessellated Pavement, another fascinating geological feature formed by centuries of wave action and erosion. Continuing from Paterson's Arch, the track soon leads to the main Waterfall Bay lookout.

The Waterfall That Falls into the Ocean

From the Waterfall Bay viewing platform, look across the bay towards the towering cliff face. After significant rainfall, you’ll see the waterfall spilling directly into the sea — a rare and striking natural phenomenon. A second lookout nearby provides additional viewing angles, along with interpretation boards explaining the area’s history, geology and unique marine life beneath the waves.

Important Information Before You Go

A valid Tasmanian National Parks Pass is required
The waterfall may not be flowing during dry periods
Stay behind barriers and viewing platforms at all times

Getting to Waterfall Bay

The walk starts at the Tasman Arch car park. From Hobart, head east along the Tasman Highway, passing the airport before turning right onto the Arthur Highway at Sorell. Continue along the highway through the Forestier Peninsula to Eaglehawk Neck. Eaglehawk Neck is the narrow isthmus connecting the Tasman Peninsula to mainland Tasmania. From here, follow the signs to Tasman Arch and the Waterfall Bay walk.

Why Visit Waterfall Bay?

Waterfall Bay is one of those places that leaves a lasting impression — vast ocean views, towering cliffs and the chance to witness a waterfall cascading straight into the sea. Even without the waterfall flowing, the coastal scenery alone makes this walk worthwhile.

If you’re exploring the Tasman Peninsula and want to discover one of Tasmania’s most dramatic coastal landscapes, Waterfall Bay should be high on your list.