Things to do in Tasmania
Visit Seahorse World Tasmania
Discover Seahorse World, one of the best things to do in Beauty Point, Tasmania. From close-up encounters with baby seahorses to expert-led tours inside a working seahorse farm, it’s a fun and educational stop for animal lovers and families. Here’s everything you need to plan your visit — including tips, nearby stays, and what to do nearby.
Top Things to Do in Tasmania: A Region-by-Region Guide
Tasmania is a compact island state packed with natural wonders, rich history, gourmet food, and unique wildlife. Whether you’re craving alpine hikes, pristine beaches, convict-era heritage, or local delicacies, Tasmania delivers unforgettable experiences in every corner. This guide sorts the best things to do in Tasmania by region to help you plan your ultimate Tassie adventure.
To help you plan your ultimate Tassie adventure, this guide is sorted by region—making it easy to explore top attractions and hidden gems across each unique part of the State.
Top Attractions - Hobart & Surrounds
A vibrant capital with historic charm, world-class dining, and a gateway to Bruny Island and the Tasman Peninsula.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Battery Point Historic Walk | Wander through this charming colonial-era neighbourhood with narrow lanes, heritage cottages, rose gardens, and scenic harbour views. Stop for coffee at Jackman & McRoss. |
| Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary | Get up close with Tasmanian devils, wombats, echidnas, and kangaroos. A family-friendly sanctuary with a strong wildlife rescue and rehab mission. |
| Bungy Jumping – Hobart | Experience a thrilling leap or giant swing over Hobart – not for the faint-hearted! Seasonal operation; check age/weight requirements. |
| Cascade Brewery Tour | Tour Australia’s oldest operating brewery, nestled beneath Mount Wellington. Finish with a tasting paddle in the heritage beer garden. |
| Eat a Curried Scallop Pie | A must-try Tasmanian delicacy: flaky pastry filled with scallops in a creamy curry sauce. Found in bakeries across Hobart and Richmond. |
| Huon Valley Scenic Drive | Take a leisurely drive south of Hobart through apple orchards, vineyards, farm gates, and quaint towns with cafés and cellar doors. |
| Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum | Near Constitution Dock, this small museum recreates the huts from Douglas Mawson’s 1911 Antarctic expedition – immersive and educational. |
| MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) | Australia’s most provocative museum, showcasing avant-garde contemporary art. Includes a winery and quirky ferry ride from Hobart. |
| Mount Wellington / kunanyi | Drive or hike to the summit for sweeping views of Hobart and the Derwent River. Snow in winter, great for bushwalking year-round. |
| Peppermint Bay Cruise | A relaxing half-day boat trip from Hobart down the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. Features gourmet dining and wildlife spotting en route. |
| Richmond Bridge | Built in 1825 by convicts, this is Australia’s oldest stone arch bridge. Surrounded by a charming village with historic sites and sweet shops. |
| Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens | A tranquil garden near the city with rare plants, including a Subantarctic Plant House simulating Macquarie Island’s climate. Free entry. |
| Salamanca Market | Vibrant Saturday market with 300+ stalls selling local produce, crafts, and art. Held in a historic sandstone precinct. |
| Street Art in Hobart | Discover murals, stencils, and hidden alley art throughout Hobart’s CBD, especially around Bathurst and Liverpool Streets. |
| Tasman Peninsula & Port Arthur | Take a day trip to the dramatic Tasman Peninsula and historic Port Arthur penal settlement. Highlights include the Tessellated Pavement and coastal rock formations. |
| Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery (TMAG) | Discover Tasmania’s Indigenous heritage, colonial history, and art. Includes natural science displays and temporary exhibitions. Free entry. |
Top Attractions - Bruny Island
A pristine island escape featuring gourmet food, rare wildlife, stunning coastlines, and rich Indigenous and settler history — the island, below an island (Tasmania), below another island (Australia)!
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Adventure Bay White Wallabies | Spot rare albino wallabies in the wild. Best viewed at dusk or dawn around Adventure Bay. |
| Bruny Island Food Tour | Sample fresh oysters, cheeses, berries, and wines on a guided tour of gourmet stops across the island. |
| Bruny Island Lighthouse | Explore the historic Cape Bruny Lighthouse, offering sweeping views and an insight into Tasmania’s maritime history. |
| Oyster Bars & Local Produce | Dine at acclaimed local spots such as Get Shucked (oysters) and Bruny Island Cheese Co. |
| South Bruny National Park | Discover windswept cliffs, secluded beaches, and wildlife on scenic bushwalks across the island’s southern reaches. |
| The Neck Lookout | Iconic photo stop where a narrow isthmus connects North and South Bruny. Climb the stairs for panoramic views and spot fairy penguins at dusk. |
Top Attractions - East Coast of Tasmania
Known for its white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and dramatic coastal scenery.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Bay of Fires | Iconic for white sand beaches and orange-lichen granite boulders. Ideal for walks, photography, and beach camping. |
| Bicheno Blowhole | A natural sea spray spectacle. Best viewed at high tide. Fairy penguin tours available nearby. |
| Coles Bay | Charming town and gateway to Freycinet. Enjoy kayaking, cruises, seafood, and sunset views of The Hazards. |
| Devil’s Corner Cellar Door | Stylish winery offering wine tastings, food vans (pizza, seafood), and views over Freycinet. |
| Douglas-Apsley National Park | Inland escape near Bicheno, with trails to waterfalls and swimming holes. Great for spotting native wildlife. |
| East Coast Natureworld (near Bicheno) | A wildlife park featuring Tasmanian devils, quolls, birds, and reptiles. Family-friendly and accessible. |
| Freycinet National Park | One of Tasmania’s top natural attractions with pink granite peaks, pristine beaches, and hiking tracks. |
| Friendly Beaches | Quiet and beautiful white sand beaches with free camping options. Just north of Coles Bay. |
| Kangaroos & Wombats – Maria Island | Friendly, wild marsupials roam freely near Darlington and campgrounds. Best at dawn and dusk. |
| Little Penguins – Bicheno & St Helens | Watch these charming birds waddle ashore on guided tours after dark. |
| Maria Island | A car-free wildlife sanctuary with convict ruins and abundant native animals. Ferry from Triabunna. |
| Mount Amos Hike (Freycinet) | A short but steep granite hike with spectacular views over Wineglass Bay. Best in dry weather. |
| Pademelons – Maria Island | These compact marsupials are easy to spot around campsites and forest trails. |
| Spiky Bridge | A quirky 19th-century convict-built bridge with spiky stonework. Great roadside photo stop south of Swansea. |
| Spring Vale or Milton Vineyard | Boutique cellar doors near Swansea offering tastings in scenic, heritage settings. |
| St Columba Falls | One of Tasmania’s highest waterfalls in rainforest near Pyengana. Combine with a visit to Pyengana Dairy. |
| Tessellated Pavement | Natural rock formation with a tiled appearance. Located near Eaglehawk Neck on route to/from the East Coast. |
| Wallabies – Fortescue Bay Campground | Camp beside a beach with curious wallabies and access to Cape Hauy hiking trail. |
| Wineglass Bay | Frequently listed among the world’s top beaches. Reachable via lookout hike or longer Hazards Beach circuit. |
Top Attractions - Launceston & Tamar Valley
A charming northern city surrounded by vineyards, waterfalls, and adventure activities.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Beaconsfield Mine & Heritage Centre | Learn about Tasmania’s mining history and the 2006 mine rescue. Interactive and family-friendly. |
| Ben Lomond National Park | Alpine area with dramatic landscapes and Tasmania’s main ski resort. Don’t miss the winding Jacob’s Ladder road. |
| Birdlife at Tamar Island Wetlands | Wooden boardwalk through wetlands filled with swans, ducks, and birds of prey. Bring binoculars. |
| Bridestowe Lavender Estate | Vast lavender fields near Nabowla, in bloom during summer (Dec–Jan). Great for photos and local gifts. |
| Cataract Gorge Reserve | Just outside the city, this gorge features hiking trails, gardens, a swimming pool, suspension bridge, and the world’s longest single-span chairlift. |
| City Park & Japanese Macaque Enclosure | Beautiful central park with seasonal gardens and an enclosure of snow monkeys. Free entry. |
| Clarendon Estate (Evandale) | Grand colonial house run by the National Trust with period furnishings and gardens. |
| Cliff Jumping – Launceston | Popular summer activity at First Basin in Cataract Gorge. Always check conditions first. |
| Evandale Sunday Market | Held in a charming historic village. Browse antiques, fresh produce, crafts, and local fare. |
| Franklin House | A beautifully preserved 1838 Georgian home with gardens. Run by the National Trust. |
| Grindelwald Swiss Village | Swiss-themed resort with shops, mini-golf, lake paddling, and alpine-style buildings. Fun for families. |
| Harvest Launceston Farmers’ Market | Bustling Saturday market with fresh produce, baked goods, and gourmet treats. Great for breakfast. |
| Hollybank Forest Reserve | Explore on foot, Segway, or mountain bike. Stunning in autumn, especially the treetop zip-line adventure. |
| Lilydale Falls | Two pretty waterfalls in a tranquil reserve north of Launceston. Easy walk and picnic facilities. |
| Notley Fern Gorge | Peaceful rainforest loop trail featuring giant tree ferns and towering eucalypts. A hidden gem. |
| Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery (QVMAG) | Explore science, natural history, art, and a planetarium. Two separate sites (Inveresk and Royal Park). Free entry. |
| Riverbend Park | Imaginative adventure playground with water features and inclusive equipment. Ideal for families. |
| Tamar River Cruises | Take in Launceston’s riverside charm or cruise into Cataract Gorge. Day and dining options available. |
| Tamar Valley Wine Route | Scenic drive visiting vineyards like Josef Chromy and Tamar Ridge, offering cool-climate varietals. |
| Zip Line – Launceston | Soar through forest canopies at Hollybank. Combines rope courses and zip-lining for all ages. |
Top Attractions - West Coast of Tasmania
Remote and wild, with rainforest, waterfalls, and dramatic river gorges.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Gordon River Cruise – Strahan | Cruise from the coastal village of Strahan into the heart of Tasmania’s temperate rainforest. Includes a stop at convict-era Sarah Island and boardwalk strolls through mossy forest. |
| Henty Dunes – Strahan | Towering sand dunes just outside Strahan. Ideal for sandboarding, 4WD adventures, or simply taking in surreal desert-like views near the sea. |
| Horsetail Falls Boardwalk | A short elevated boardwalk leads to views of Horsetail Falls cascading down a sheer cliff. Best after rain. Located just outside Queenstown. |
| Iron Blow Lookout – Gormanston | A surreal, open-cut mine site with turquoise water, reflecting the region’s dramatic mining history. The viewing platform offers striking photos of this starkly beautiful landscape. |
| Lake Burbury | A large inland lake near Queenstown, popular for boating, kayaking, and trout fishing. Surrounded by mountains and often cloaked in morning mist — peaceful and scenic. |
| Montezuma Falls | Tasmania’s highest waterfall (104 metres), accessed via a scenic rainforest walk near Rosebery. The track follows an old tramway and includes a suspension bridge with a spectacular view. |
| Nelson Falls – Franklin-Gordon NP | A short, easy rainforest walk leads to a picture-perfect cascade framed by mossy trees and ferns. One of Tasmania’s most photogenic waterfalls, ideal on a road trip to/from Queenstown. |
| Ocean Beach – Strahan | One of Tasmania’s longest beaches, stretching over 30 km. Wild, windswept, and a dramatic spot for sunset photography or beach walks. |
| Queenstown’s Lunar Landscape | The hills around Queenstown have been stripped bare by historic mining, leaving behind a barren, otherworldly terrain. Great photo ops and a look at Tasmania’s industrial past. |
| Spion Kop Lookout – Queenstown | Climb this hilltop for panoramic views of Queenstown, the surrounding mountain ranges, and the stark mining-scarred landscape. A must-do for first-time visitors. |
| The Tarkine (takayna) | Australia’s largest temperate rainforest, with ancient forests, dramatic coastlines, and Aboriginal cultural heritage. Explore via rainforest walks, coastal drives, and wildlife spotting. |
| Trial Harbour & Granville Harbour | Remote west coast settlements offering wild ocean views, crashing waves, and a sense of isolation. A scenic drive from Zeehan or Queenstown. |
| West Coast Wilderness Railway | A heritage steam train journey from Queenstown to Strahan (or vice versa), travelling through dense rainforest and over historic trestle bridges. Learn about Tasmania’s mining past. |
| White Water Rafting – Franklin River | A legendary multi-day rafting trip through pristine wilderness. Challenging rapids, deep gorges, and untouched beauty — one of the world’s greatest river journeys. |
| Wild Rivers National Park | A vast wilderness area forming part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Ideal for backcountry hiking, river exploration, and immersing yourself in ancient rainforest. |
| Zeehan Pioneer Museum | One of Tasmania’s best regional museums, showcasing mining, geology, early transport, and pioneer life. Set across several historic buildings. |
Top Attractions - Central Highlands & Midlands
High country filled with trout fishing, open plains, and historic villages.
| Attraction | Description |
| Bothwell | One of Tasmania’s oldest inland towns, known for its colonial buildings, antique shops, and as the home of Australia’s oldest golf course. |
| Campbell Town | Central stop along the Midland Highway with heritage buildings, antique shops, and the convict-built Red Bridge. Great for a history-themed coffee break. |
| Great Lake | One of Tasmania’s largest freshwater lakes, popular for fly-fishing, boating, and relaxing in alpine surrounds. High-altitude beauty with crisp air and stargazing. |
| Liffey Falls – Liffey Falls State Reserve | A scenic rainforest walk leads to a series of tiered cascades in one of Tasmania’s prettiest waterfall settings. Picnic area and short or longer trail options available. |
| Oatlands | Historic village with more than 150 sandstone buildings, charming cafés, and the fully restored Callington Mill – Australia’s only working Lincolnshire windmill. |
| Ross Village | Famous for its 19th-century Ross Bridge, historic buildings, and the heritage-listed Female Factory site. Grab a treat from the Ross Bakery, a local institution. |
| Tarraleah Village | A former hydro village turned accommodation retreat, nestled in forested hills with stunning views over the Nive River Gorge. Great for spotting platypus in the wild. |
| The Steppes Historic Site | See historic homestead ruins and intriguing stone sculptures reflecting the lives of early settlers. A peaceful stop along Highland Lakes Road. |
| Waddamana Power Station Heritage Site | Explore Tasmania’s early hydro-electric power history at this well-preserved station museum. Free entry with hands-on exhibits and vintage machinery. |
Top Attractions – Cradle Mountain & Surrounds
Tasmania’s most famous wilderness area, known for stunning alpine scenery, rare wildlife, and world-class hiking.
| Attraction | Description |
| Cradle Mountain – Dove Lake Circuit | Iconic 6 km loop walk around Dove Lake with breathtaking views of Cradle Mountain’s jagged peaks. |
| Cradle Mountain Visitor Centre | Info hub providing maps, shuttle services, and advice on exploring the national park. |
| Devils@Cradle Wildlife Sanctuary | Nearby sanctuary offering close encounters with endangered Tasmanian devils and other native species. |
| Enchanted Walk | Easy boardwalk trail through lush rainforest beside a bubbling creek, perfect for families. |
| Lake St Clair | Australia’s deepest freshwater lake with tranquil waters and beautiful walking trails along the shore. |
| Marion’s Lookout | Moderate hike rewarding walkers with panoramic views over Cradle Mountain and the surrounding wilderness. |
| Overland Track | World-renowned 65 km hiking trail stretching from Cradle Mountain to Lake St Clair, taking 6–7 days through diverse landscapes—alpine meadows, dense rainforests, glacial lakes, and rugged mountain peaks. Bookings and permits required. Offers unforgettable wilderness experience and iconic photo opportunities. |
| Overland Track Start | Famous multi-day trek begins here, crossing Tasmania’s wild highlands between Cradle Mountain and Lake St Clair. |
| Platypus Spotting at Lake St Clair | Early morning or dusk chances to see shy platypus in their natural habitat in the lake’s calm waters. |
| See Wombats at Ronny Creek | Spot wombats grazing freely near Ronny Creek, especially at dawn and dusk. |
Top Attractions - Tasmania's South
Home to national parks, rugged coastlines, and World Heritage wilderness.
| Attraction | Description |
| Cockle Creek – South Cape Bay Track | The southernmost drivable point in Australia. Start a beautiful coastal day walk to South Cape Bay, part of the famed South Coast Track. Remote and spectacular. |
| Eastern Quolls – Mount Field NP | Spot these rare, nocturnal marsupials on guided night tours. Known for their spotted coats and playful behavior. Best seen around dusk. |
| Geeveston & Huon Valley | Visit small creative towns, local producers, and get close to nature in the Hartz Mountains or Tahune Airwalk. Ideal for slow travel lovers. |
| Hastings Caves & Thermal Springs | Explore dolomite caves with underground chambers and soak in a warm thermal pool surrounded by forest. Great all-weather attraction. |
| Ida Bay Railway (currently under restoration) | Historic narrow-gauge railway offering a scenic ride through forest and marshland to a remote beach. Check ahead for reopening status. |
| Mount Field National Park | Tasmania’s first national park offers accessible rainforest walks, alpine hikes, towering swamp gums, and some of the best seasonal fungi and autumn foliage photography. |
| Russell Falls – Mount Field NP | A short, easy walk leads to this multi-tiered waterfall framed by tree ferns and mossy forest. One of Tasmania’s most iconic and photographed waterfalls. |
| Southwest National Park (via Scotts Peak Road) | Gateway to Tasmania’s true wilderness — dramatic mountain ranges, glacial lakes, and ancient forests. Ideal for hikers and landscape photographers. |
| The Styx Valley of the Giants | A hidden gem with some of the tallest flowering trees on Earth. Experience towering eucalyptus regnans, lush moss gardens, and deep tranquility. |
Top Attractions - Tasman Peninsula
Steeped in history with towering sea cliffs and abundant marine life.
| Attraction | Description |
| Cape Hauy Track | One of Tasmania’s most breathtaking coastal day hikes. Rewarding views over sea stacks, including the Candlestick and Totem Pole, popular with rock climbers. |
| Cape Raoul Track | Another stunning headland walk with views over sheer cliffs, dramatic columns, and the Southern Ocean. Best done on a clear day. |
| Fortescue Bay | A peaceful bay perfect for camping, swimming, kayaking, and wildlife spotting (wallabies and sea birds). A base for Cape Hauy or Cape Pillar walks. |
| Port Arthur Historic Site | Tasmania’s most iconic convict site and UNESCO-listed open-air museum. Explore preserved buildings, ruins, and stories of life in the penal colony. Guided and ghost tours available. |
| Tasman Arch & Devil’s Kitchen | Impressive coastal rock formations near Eaglehawk Neck, shaped by the erosive power of waves. Short walks and viewing platforms. |
| Tasman Island Cruise – Port Arthur | A thrilling eco-cruise past towering dolerite sea cliffs, waterfalls, sea caves, and wildlife such as seals, dolphins, and seabirds. A must-do for photographers. |
| Tasmanian Devil Tracker Adventure – Unzoo | Join a guided bushwalk to track wild Tasmanian devils and support conservation efforts. A unique hands-on wildlife experience. |
| Tessellated Pavement – Eaglehawk Neck | A rare geological formation resembling man-made tiles. Best viewed at low tide and sunrise. |
| The Dog Line – Eaglehawk Neck | Historic site where fierce dogs once guarded the narrow isthmus to prevent convict escapes. Interpretive signage brings the story to life. |
Your Ultimate Tasmania Adventure Awaits
Tasmania’s charm lies in its diversity. From coastlines teeming with wildlife to mountain peaks and gourmet delights, every region offers something unique. Use this region-by-region guide to craft your perfect itinerary—whether you’re after outdoor thrills, foodie finds, or quiet moments in nature. Tasmania promises unforgettable moments around every bend.
Tasmania Travel Inspiration & Stories
Visit Seahorse World Tasmania
Discover Seahorse World, one of the best things to do in Beauty Point, Tasmania. From close-up encounters with baby seahorses to expert-led tours inside a working seahorse farm, it’s a fun and educational stop for animal lovers and families. Here’s everything you need to plan your visit — including tips, nearby stays, and what to do nearby.
See wombats in Tasmania at Ronny Creek, Cradle Mountain
Discover Ronny Creek in Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park — one of the best places to see wombats in Tasmania. From boardwalk trails across scenic moorlands to up-close wildlife encounters, here’s everything you need to plan your magical wombat-spotting adventure.
Tasman Island Cruise
A Tasman Island cruise will take you along the breathtaking coastline near Port Arthur Historic Site and Eaglehawk Neck in southern Tasmania.
Richmond Bridge Tasmania
Visit Richmond Bridge Tasmania and walk across the stone arch bridge built in 1823 making it the oldest bridge in Tasmania and Australia.
Bridestowe Lavender Farm
Take a relaxing stroll through Bridestowe Lavender Farm and enjoy the fresh scent of lavender.
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