Freycinet National Park on Tasmania's east coast is home to Wineglass Bay - consistently ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches. The park occupies a dramatic granite peninsula, where the pink-and-grey peaks of the Hazards rise sharply from turquoise water, and secluded bays of white sand are backed by coastal bushland. It is Tasmania's most popular national park and one of Australia's great coastal destinations.
Getting There
Freycinet is about 2.5 hours northeast of Hobart and 2.5 hours southeast of Launceston. The gateway town is Coles Bay, a small settlement at the base of the Hazards. There is no public transport - you will need a car. The drive from Hobart via the Tasman Highway and the east coast is scenic, passing through historic towns like Swansea and Bicheno. A National Parks Pass is required ($25 per person per day or $80 for a Holiday Pass).
Wineglass Bay Lookout
The walk to the Wineglass Bay Lookout is the park's signature experience - a 1.5-hour return walk from the car park that climbs through dry eucalypt forest to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the perfect crescent of Wineglass Bay. The view from the lookout is one of Australia's most iconic. The track is well-maintained but involves a steady uphill climb with some steps.
Wineglass Bay Beach
For those wanting more than the view, continue from the lookout down to the beach itself - about 45 minutes further (making it a 2.5-3 hour return trip in total). The beach is pristine white sand, often deserted, and the water is crystal clear (though cold, even in summer). Swimming, snorkelling, and simply sitting on one of the world's great beaches are the main activities.
The Hazards
The Hazards are the dramatic pink granite peaks that define Freycinet's skyline. Their distinctive colour comes from feldspar minerals in the granite. The most popular walk in the Hazards is the circuit over the saddle between Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach - a 4-5 hour loop that takes in both bays and crosses the peninsula.
Kayaking & Cruises
Sea kayaking is one of the best ways to experience Freycinet's coastline:
- Freycinet Adventures: Guided sea kayaking tours around the peninsula, paddling beneath the Hazards with views of the coastline inaccessible by foot. Half-day tours from $125.
- Wineglass Bay Cruises: Cruise around the peninsula with commentary on the geology, wildlife (seals, dolphins, sea eagles), and history. Full-day and half-day options available. From $145.
- Freycinet Experience Walk: A 4-day guided walk staying in an eco-lodge, combining day walks with lodge-based accommodation and gourmet food. From $2,750.
Other Walks
- Cape Tourville Lighthouse: An easy 20-minute circuit walk with panoramic coastal views. Wheelchair accessible.
- Sleepy Bay: A short walk to a beautiful sheltered bay with fascinating rock formations. Great for photography.
- Mt Amos: A challenging 3-hour return climb to the summit of one of the Hazards, offering arguably the best views in the park - straight down into Wineglass Bay. Rock scrambling required; not suitable for inexperienced walkers.
Where to Eat
Coles Bay is a small town with limited but quality dining:
- Tombolo Freycinet: The restaurant at Freycinet Lodge, offering Tasmanian produce with views of Great Oyster Bay. Mains $34-48.
- The Edge: Modern Australian in the Saffire Freycinet resort (guests and non-guests welcome). Degustation from $150.
- Coles Bay Fish Cafe: Excellent fish and chips and fresh Tasmanian seafood in a casual setting.
- Iluka Tavern: Relaxed pub with bistro meals and local beers. Mains $20-32.
- Freycinet Marine Farm: Drive-through oyster farm on the road to Coles Bay. Fresh oysters, mussels, and abalone. Oysters from $15 per dozen.
Where to Stay
- Budget: Freycinet National Park camping (BYO tent, basic facilities, stunning location at Richardsons Beach. $16 per night), Coles Bay YHA, Iluka Holiday Centre.
- Mid-Range: Freycinet Lodge (eco-lodge cabins in the national park, many with bay views. From $250), Edge of the Bay (boutique cottages with beach access).
- Luxury: Saffire Freycinet (one of Australia's finest luxury lodges, with all-inclusive dining, spa, and activities. From $1,800 per night), Thalia Haven (private eco-retreat on its own private beach).
Practical Tips
- Weather: Freycinet has a mild maritime climate. Summer (December-February) averages 14-22°C - pleasant for walking but the water is still cold (15-18°C). Winter is cool (4-12°C) but often clear and sunny. The east coast is Tasmania's driest and sunniest region. - Crowds: Wineglass Bay Lookout is extremely popular in summer. Start early (before 9am) to beat the crowds and get parking at the trailhead. The car park fills up on busy days. - Sun protection: Despite Tasmania's southern latitude, UV is strong in summer. Wear sunscreen, a hat, and bring plenty of water for walks. - Wildlife: The park is home to wallabies, wombats, echidnas, and sea eagles. Possums and pademelons are common around the camping areas and accommodation at night.
AUBIS Tip
: Freycinet is one of Tasmania's essential experiences. Use AUBIS to plan a 2-3 day stay - schedule the Wineglass Bay walk for early morning, add a sea kayaking tour, and book oysters at the Freycinet Marine Farm. Combine with the Bay of Fires (1.5 hours north) or Bicheno for a stunning east coast road trip.