The Bay of Fires is one of Tasmania's most stunning stretches of coastline - a series of pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise water, and the remarkable orange lichen-covered granite boulders that give the area its distinctive character. Stretching for about 50 kilometres along the northeast coast from Binalong Bay to Eddystone Point, the Bay of Fires was named by Captain Tobias Furneaux in 1773 after seeing the fires of the Aboriginal people along the shore. It consistently ranks among Australia's most beautiful beaches.
Getting There
The Bay of Fires is about 3.5 hours northeast of Hobart and 1 hour east of Launceston via St Helens. The main access point is Binalong Bay, a small settlement at the southern end. St Helens, the largest town on the east coast, is about 10 minutes west and serves as the main service centre. A car is essential - there is no public transport.
The Boulders
The iconic orange-coloured boulders that define the Bay of Fires are covered in a lichen called Caloplaca - a slow-growing organism that thrives on the granite in the salt air. The lichen takes decades to develop its vivid colour, and the contrast against the white sand and turquoise water creates one of Australia's most photogenic landscapes. The most photographed boulders are at Binalong Bay and The Gardens.
Beaches
The Bay of Fires encompasses numerous beaches, each with its own character:
- Binalong Bay: The most accessible beach and the main swimming spot. White sand, clear water, and the famous orange boulders. The Gulch (a small inlet) has calm water perfect for snorkelling.
- The Gardens: About 20 minutes north of Binalong Bay on a gravel road, The Gardens is a stretch of pristine beach with some of the most spectacular boulders. A campsite here offers a truly wild beach camping experience.
- Cosy Corner: A sheltered south-facing beach with calm water, ideal for families.
- Sloop Reef: Further north, with dramatic rock formations and powerful surf.
Swimming & Snorkelling
The Bay of Fires offers some of Tasmania's best swimming and snorkelling:
- Binalong Bay: The main swimming beach with generally calm conditions. The water is clear but cold (14-19°C even in summer).
- The Gulch: A rocky inlet at Binalong Bay with calm, deep water and excellent snorkelling among kelp beds, colourful fish, and marine life.
- Diving: The coast offers excellent diving with kelp forests, seal colonies, and diverse marine life. Bay of Fires Dive operates trips from St Helens.
Bay of Fires Lodge Walk
The Bay of Fires Lodge Walk is one of Australia's premier guided walks - a 4-day, 3-night experience walking through the Bay of Fires conservation area, staying in the architecturally acclaimed Bay of Fires Lodge. The lodge is perched on a hilltop above the beach, built with sustainable materials, and features floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the coast. The walk combines coastal walking, wildlife spotting, kayaking, and exceptional food and wine. From $2,695 per person. Book well in advance.
Where to Eat
- The Angasi Restaurant (St Helens): Modern Tasmanian cuisine with local seafood and east coast wines. Mains $30-44.
- Bangor Wine & Oyster Shed: On the road from Hobart, a cellar door and oyster bar with stunning coastal views.
- Captain's Catch (St Helens): Excellent fish and chips with fresh local seafood.
- Binalong Bay Cafe: Simple but good coffee, burgers, and light meals with ocean views.
- Purple Possum (St Helens): Popular cafe with great coffee and homemade baked goods.
Where to Stay
- Budget: The Gardens campsite (bush camping right on the beach - one of Tasmania's best camp spots. $13 per night), Binalong Bay campsite, St Helens caravan parks.
- Mid-Range: Bay of Fires Character Cottages (self-contained cottages near Binalong Bay. From $180), Tidal Waters Resort St Helens (resort with lagoon views).
- Luxury: Bay of Fires Lodge (the acclaimed eco-lodge accessible only on foot as part of the guided walk), Sealand Birubi (private luxury retreat overlooking the bay).
Practical Tips
- Weather: The east coast is Tasmania's driest and sunniest region. Summer (December-February) averages 14-22°C. Even on warm days, the water is cold - a wetsuit extends your swimming comfort considerably. - Sun protection: UV is strong in Tasmania despite the southern latitude. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring shade - the beaches have little natural shelter. - Supplies: Bring food, water, and supplies from St Helens. Binalong Bay has very limited services. The Gardens has no services at all. - Roads: The road to The Gardens and northern beaches is unsealed but usually suitable for 2WD vehicles in dry conditions. Drive carefully. - Fires: No fires are permitted in the conservation area. Use a fuel stove for camping.
AUBIS Tip
: The Bay of Fires is one of Tasmania's most beautiful destinations and pairs perfectly with a broader east coast road trip. Use AUBIS to plan a 2-day stay - swim and snorkel at Binalong Bay, drive to The Gardens for a beach walk, and explore St Helens for dining. Combine with Freycinet (2 hours south) and Launceston for the ultimate Tasmanian east coast itinerary.