by Dawn Teh
posted on 15 January 2025
A Tasmania East Coast road trip is your ticket to exploring one of Australia’s most magnificent coastal drives.
From white sandy beaches and rugged national parks to charming seaside towns and world-class food and wine, your east coast of Tasmania offers a journey packed with natural beauty and unforgettable experiences.
This guide will take you through the must-see stops along the iconic Great Eastern Drive, ensuring your adventure is nothing short of extraordinary.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- An overview of the Tasmania East Coast road trip
- Your road trip itinerary for Tasmania’s East Coast
- Expert tips for the Tasmanian East Coast road trip
- Top places to stop along your Tasmania East Coast road trip
- Tasmania East Coast road trip: FAQs, answered
Tasmania East Coast road trip: An overview
Here’s a quick overview of the key things to note about this itinerary.
- Drive time: 5 hours 35 minutes
- Drive distance: 395 km
- Driving difficulty: Easy
- Best time to go: Summer (Dec-Feb) is the best time to visit Tasmania’s east coast, especially if you want to enjoy the beaches. But with mild average temperatures year-round, every season has its own charm.
- Petrol stations and EV chargers along the way: There are sufficient petrol stations and EV chargers along the route so you won’t have to fill jerry cans along the way. Use Google Maps to find petrol stations or PlugShare to find EV chargers.
- Recommended vehicle: With sealed roads, any well-maintained car will do for this Tasmania east coast road trip. You’d only need a 4WD if you plan to explore off-road areas like Peron Dunes.
- Must-do experiences along the way:
- Beach hopping at Bay of Fires
- Savour fresh seafood at St Helens
- Penguin watching at Bicheno
- Marvelling at Maria Island’s Painted Cliffs
- Admiring the Great Oyster Bay from Swansea
- Enjoying sweeping views of Wineglass Bay at Freycinet Peninsula
Your road trip map along Tasmania’s East Coast
Your East Coast Tasmania road trip itinerary
Along this 5-day road trip across Tasmania’s east coast, you’ll be treated to stunning coastline views and unforgettable adventure every step of the way—from hiking the rugged peaks of Freycinet to soaking in the vibrant hues of the Bay of Fires. You’ll also explore convict-built landmarks, uncover secret beaches, and walk alongside wombats on car-free islands. Whatever experiences you’re chasing (whether it’s penguins at dusk or sunsets by a historic lighthouse), this journey promises moments you’ll never forget.
Stop 1: Hobart to Triabunna (via Maria Island National Park)
- Drive time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Drive distance: 85 km
- What to do:
- Mt Wellington: Pack your jacket and head up Hobart’s most beloved mountain. The summit provides breathtaking views of the town, the Derwent River, and beyond.
- Maria Island National Park: Catch the ferry from Triabunna to Maria Island, an idyllic sanctuary with no cars and plenty of wildlife. Explore the Painted Cliffs, hike to the Fossil Cliffs, or cycle along quiet trails. Keep an eye out for wombats, kangaroos, and the island’s rich convict history at sites like Darlington Probation Station.
- Where to stay:
- $ Triabunna Cabin & Caravan Park
- $$ Eastcoaster Tasmania
- $$$ Triabunna Barracks
- Where to eat:
- Spring Bay Seafood & Wine Bar: Local seafood and wine.
- Orford Blue Waters Hotel: Delicious bistro meals.
- The Fish Van: Unpretentious fish and chips shack.
Your day begins in Hobart with a drive up to Mt Wellington, where sweeping views over the city and beyond await. After soaking in the panoramic scenery, it’s a quick drive to your stop of the day at Triabunna. From here, catch the ferry to Maria Island National Park—a car-free sanctuary bursting with natural beauty and history. Spend the day exploring the Painted Cliffs, spotting wombats and kangaroos, or cycling along quiet trails. In the evening, return to the mainland and spend the night at Triabunna savouring some great local seafood.
Stop 2: Triabunna to Swansea
- Drive time: 37 minutes
- Drive distance: 50 km
- What to do:
- Spiky Bridge: You won’t miss this striking, convict-built bridge from the 19th century with its jagged, upright stones.
- Kate’s Berry Farm: A charming stop for food lovers, this farm features fresh berry desserts, homemade jams, and a cozy café with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- East Coast Heritage Museum: Dive into Tasmania’s past at this small museum, which showcases the region’s convict history and maritime heritage through engaging exhibits.
- Great Oyster Bay Views: Take in the breathtaking sights of turquoise waters and the dramatic Freycinet Peninsula from scenic lookouts along Swansea’s coast.
- Where to stay:
- $ Swansea Holiday Park
- $$ Swansea Beach Chalets
- $$$ Piermont Retreat
- Where to eat:
- Milton Vineyard: Stop by this cellar door to enjoy micro-climate wines and specially curated meals.
- Bark Mill Tavern & Bakery: Stop by here for a mix of pies, pastries, pizzas, and other pub grub.
- Cake & Honey: A refreshing cafe serving up cakes, pastries, and other treats.
Today’s drive from Triabunna to Swansea is short but full of charm. Begin your day at the quirky Spiky Bridge, a unique 19th-century convict-built structure with its unmistakable jagged stones. Once in Swansea, treat yourself to the delicious delights at Kate’s Berry Farm and dive into the region’s rich history at the East Coast Heritage Museum. Be sure to head to the beach to soak in the stunning views of Great Oyster Bay with the Freycinet Peninsula as a breathtaking backdrop.
Stop 3: Swansea to Bicheno (via Freycinet National Park)
- Drive time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Drive distance: 98 km
- What to do:
- Coles Bay: Make a quick stop at this charming coastal town to enjoy the tranquil waters of the bay and perhaps join the Oyster Bay Tour for a shucking lesson and some of the freshest oysters you’ll ever taste.
- Freycinet National Park: Spend the day exploring this iconic park, home to the famous Wineglass Bay. Choose from short walks, such as the Wineglass Bay Lookout (60-90 minutes), or longer hikes leading to Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach (4-5 hours) and take in the breathtaking beaches, granite peaks, and diverse wildlife.
- Bicheno Penguin Tour: End your day in Bicheno with an evening penguin tour. Witness these adorable little penguins returning to their burrows after a day at sea—a magical and memorable experience.
- Where to stay:
- $ Bicheno Backpackers Hostel
- $$ Bicheno by the Bay
- $$$ Bicheno Garden Cottages
- Where to eat:
- Geographe Restaurant and Espresso Bar (Coles Bay)
- Lobster Shack Tasmania (Bicheno)
- Food & Brew Bicheno
Today’s journey is packed with stunning natural attractions and animal encounters from start to end. Begin with a quick stop at Coles Bay to admire the tranquil waters and Hazards mountain range, then explore Freycinet National Park (including icons like Wineglass Bay Lookout or the Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit). Then, end your day in Bicheno with an enchanting evening penguin experience.
Stop 4: Bicheno to St Helens
- Drive time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Drive distance: 78 km
- What to do:
- Bicheno Blowhole: Witness this spectacular natural phenomenon of ocean waves forcefully shooting through an opening in the granite shelf that’s directly next to the water.
- East Coast Natureworld: Spend some time at this wildlife sanctuary, home to Tasmanian devils, echidnas, and other native animals. Take a walk through the park, attend feeding sessions, and learn about conservation efforts.
- Peron Dunes: Explore these ever-changing dunes just outside St Helens. If you’re feeling adventurous, try sandboarding or four-wheel driving for an unforgettable experience.
- Where to stay:
- $ Hillcrest Tourist Park
- $$ Tasman Holiday Parks – St Helens
- $$$ The Panorama Hotel
- Where to eat:
Start your day with the dramatic ocean sprays at the Bicheno Blowhole—be prepared to get wet, as there are no barriers! Next, head to East Coast Natureworld, a wildlife sanctuary home to native animals like the iconic Tasmanian devil. As you near St Helens, pause at the Peron Dunes to take in the sweeping sands or try sandboarding for a dose of adventure.
Stop 5: St Helens to Bay of Fires
- Drive time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Drive distance: 99 km
- What to do:
- Explore Bay of Fires: You finally get to explore the stunning Bay of Fires, with its pristine beaches, blue waters, and iconic orange-coloured lichen rocks. Highlights include Binalong Bay, The Gardens, Ansons Bay, and Eddystone Point.
- Where to stay: Head back to your accommodation at St Helens.
- Where to eat:
- The Hub – Seaside (Binalong Bay): Great for pizza and coffee.
- Lease 65: Fresh oysters.
Spend the day soaking up the natural beauty of what will most likely be the highlight of your trip—the breathtaking Bay of Fires. This stunning region is a feast for the eyes, with its pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant orange-lichen-covered rocks. Begin at the serene Binalong Bay, where you can swim, snorkel the offshore reefs, surf, or simply relax and enjoy the views. Continue north to The Gardens, a scenic area with panoramic coastal vistas. For a quieter escape, visit Ansons Bay, where isolated beaches invite reflection, or try kayaking along the Anson River if you’re up for some adventure. End your day at Eddystone Point, home to a historic lighthouse located on Tasmania’s north east and an incredible spot to catch the sunset—a perfect conclusion to your Bay of Fires adventure.
Expert tips for the Tasmanian East Coast road trip
You probably have questions about road conditions and driving rules in Tasmania’s east coast—but don’t worry! Here are our top tips to ensure your journey is safe, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable.
Driving conditions: What is the road along Tasmania’s East Coast like?
The driving conditions in Tassie’s east coast are generally good. Main roads are typically paved, making this drive smooth and straightforward. You may encounter dirt or gravel roads leading to some natural attractions. However, most cars should navigate these without trouble.
Recommended type of car for the drive
With completely sealed roads along this drive, any well-maintained car (even a small compact vehicle) will easily get you around Tasmania’s east coast. Of course, you can also opt for a larger SUV if you’d like some extra comfort. If you decide to do some off-road exploring or tackle the Peron Dunes, then a 4WD is a must. You can easily find the perfect ride on Turo for this road trip.
How to stay safe on this road trip
- Left-side driving: All motorists in Tasmania drive on the left side of the road.
- Speed limits: As you navigate through urban areas, adhere to a 50km/h speed limit unless alternative signage is provided. On open roads, the maximum speed limit is 100km/h unless otherwise indicated. Always make sure to check the speed limit signs in the area you are driving.
- Seatbelt safety: All passengers and drivers must be secured with seatbelts at all times.
- Baby seat requirements: Children 7 years old and under must be restrained in an appropriate car seat for their age.
- Prepare your car: Ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition, with a thorough service check, and equip it with spare tyres and necessary tools.
- Research about driving on unsealed roads: Learn about how to drive on dirt and gravel roads as you might encounter some unpaved roads around national park areas.
- Stay with your car if you break down: Your vehicle provides shelter and makes it easier for rescuers to find you. Don’t attempt to walk for help.
- Let others know about your road trip: Inform friends or family of your itinerary, including expected travel routes and check-in times.
- Bring a first-aid kit: Ensure it’s well-stocked and includes supplies for treating common outback injuries, like bites, stings, and burns.
- Ensure your car has the appropriate insurance and towing coverage: Verify that your insurance policy includes coverage for towing in remote areas.
- Watch out for wildlife and roadkill: Animals are often attracted to lights from vehicles and may appear on the road. Always drive cautiously, especially at dawn or dusk.
- Prepare for adverse weather conditions: You might encounter fog, snow or black ice especially at night and in the early morning in mountainous areas.
Top places to stop along your Tasmania East Coast road trip
Get ready for the ultimate adventure along Tasmania’s entire east coast, where rugged cliffs meet turquoise seas, and every stop reveals a new slice of paradise. From the wild beauty of national parks to hidden beaches and charming towns, this road trip is a dream for anyone who craves stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable experiences.
Bay of Fires
Stretching from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point, visiting the Bay of Fires feels like stepping onto the cover of a travel magazine. Its signature orange-lichen rocks, powdery white sand, and turquoise water create a striking contrast that will stop you in your tracks. There are many ways to soak in the beauty of this pristine paradise—whether it’s snorkelling Binalong Bay, conquering the St Helens Mountain Bike Trails, or simply lazing on one of its many beaches.
St Helens
This relaxed fishing town serves as the gateway to the Bay of Fires but has its fair share of quirky vibes. You can grab fresh scallops or crayfish straight from the source fish-punts, then hop over to its interesting hipster joints (stop by East, Tiger for craft brews and live music events). For a bit of adventure, head to the nearby Peron Dunes for some sandboarding or four-wheel driving fun.
Bicheno
Bicheno is your go-to spot for animal encounters. Watch the magical spectacle of little penguins waddling ashore at dusk, and meet some Tasmanian devils at the East Coast Natureworld. For underwater adventurers, the nearby Governor Island Marine Reserve offers incredible diving and snorkelling opportunities, with vibrant reefs teeming with marine life.
Maria Island
Stay awhile on Maria Island, and you might find yourself wishing to be stranded here. This car-free sanctuary is brimming with wildlife, from adorable pademelons to curious kangaroos. Don’t miss the Painted Cliffs and Fossil Cliffs, which are as fascinating as they are beautiful. Activities for the day could also include hiking, cycling, snorkelling, or soaking up the history of its convict past at the old Commissariat Store.
Swansea
Situated right next to Freycinet National Park and overlooking Great Oyster Bay, Swansea is a picturesque town offering wonderful views and a welcoming atmosphere. While you’re here, stretch your legs with a beach walk, indulge in some freshly baked treats at a local café, and sample some wines at Milton Vineyard. If you’re a history buff, take a stroll around the town to admire its heritage buildings and learn about its fascinating past.
Great Oyster Bay
This sweeping bay offers uninterrupted views of the Freycinet Peninsula (with the Hazards Mountain Range rising dramatically in the distance) along the west coast and a host of activities like kayaking, oyster farm tours, and catching glimpses of magnificent marine life like dolphins and whales in the winter.
Freycinet Peninsula
With dramatic Hazards Mountain range scenery framing the picture-perfect Wineglass Bay, it’s no wonder The Freycinet Peninsula often takes the title of being the crown jewel of Tasmania’s east coast. Stroll along the sands of Hazards Beach and Coles Bay for a relaxing experience, or hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout for breathtaking views if you’re up for a challenge, or take a stroll along the sands of Hazards Beach. For a luxury experience, you could even join the Wineglass Bay Cruises tour aboard their vessel (complete with a licensed bar and lunch). Top off your visit with at stop at Freycinet Marine Farm for freshly shucked oysters and local seafood—the perfect way to refuel after a day of exploring.
Tasmania East Coast road trip: FAQs, answered
Where should I stop along the east coast of Tasmania?
Some of the best stops along the east coast of Tasmania include the Bay of Fires for its orange-lichen rocks and pristine beaches, Freycinet National Park for the pristine Wineglass Bay, and Bicheno for its adorable penguins.
How long does it take to road trip around Tasmania?
A full road trip around Tasmania takes 10–14 days to cover the island. You can do a shorter trip in 5–7 days focusing on one region. For a deeper experience, plan for 3 weeks or more.
What is the most scenic part of Tasmania?
Some of the most scenic parts of Tasmania include Wineglass Bay, Cradle Mountain, and the Bay of Fires. Mount Wellington also provides breathtaking views of Hobart and beyond.
What are the best beaches on the east coast of Tasmania?
Wineglass Bay, Friendly Beaches, and the many beaches along the Bay of Fires offer stunning ocean views and pristine white sand. Waubs Beach is great for families because of the calm waters.
Final word: Planning your Tasmania East Coast road trip
Looking for a comfy SUV, or a big people mover for your Tasmania East Coast road trip? Check out the wide variety of vehicles ready for hire on Turo.
Dawn Teh
Dawn, an ex-psychologist and avid travel writer, blends her expertise in human behaviour with her passion for adventure. Her writing reflects a unique perspective on personal growth, wanderlust and what it is that helps humans thrive. Her current mission is to live the van life and tour the Australian outback with her family.
