Day Trips From Hobart

Get set for adventure with my guide to day trips from Hobart! Tasmania’s capital city is vibrant, cosy and beautiful – and tantalisingly close to so many natural and historic wonders. Join me as we delve into the stunning surrounds of Hobart town to uncover picturesque rock formations, Tasmania’s colonial past, breathtaking beaches and unique flora and fauna. Best of all, each day trip listed below can be extended if you have some extra time up your sleeve.

Hobart Day Trips

If you’re looking for the best day trips from Hobart, you’re spoiled for choice! Head to Bruny Island for fresh oysters and jaw-dropping views, or dive into history at the Port Arthur Historic Site. Love a good hike? The Tasman Peninsula’s Cape Huay Track and Three Capes Track won’t disappoint. For wildlife lovers, there’s the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo, plus dramatic sights like Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen. Don’t miss the beauty of Maria Island or the charm of the Huon Valley’s wineries and cider houses. And, of course, the east coast beaches are calling – perfect for a laid-back escape! So, in no particular order, these are the excursions that I’ve enjoyed from Hobart:

Day Trip to Bruny Island

Of all the day trips from Hobart, a day trip to Bruny Island is my absolute favourite! So much so, in fact, that I’ve written a whole Bruny Island Guide! You can read about Bruny Island in depth there, but here’s a quick run down…

Bruny Island lies just off Tasmania’s south coast and is only accessible by ferry from the port town of Kettering. Kettering is an easy 40 minute drive from Hobart. Ferries from Kettering run very regularly throughout the day across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel to Bruny. The ferry crossing is reasonably priced but depends upon the timing of your trip and the size of your vehicle. You will need your own vehicle, or be part of a tour group. For more information, have a look at my Bruny Island Ferry Guide.

Bruny Island boasts a diverse array of flora and fauna, as well as impressive beaches, capes, cliffs and coves. It’s remote and wild and allows visitors the opportunity to reconnect with nature. On Bruny Island you’ll find iconic views, adventure activities, walking tracks, culinary delights and a variety of local artisans and producers.

Port Arthur Historic Site

The Port Arthur Historic site has an interesting, complex, colonial and storied past. In my opinion, no trip to Hobart is complete without a visit to Port Arthur. Depending on your interested in Australia’s penal history, you can spend anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day visiting the UNESCO-listed Port Arthur site.

Wander through eerie ruins, restored buildings, lush gardens, or take a guided tour to hear stories about past residents’ hardships and resilience. There are interactive exhibits, an on-site museum, gorgeous coastal views, and an included ferry ride around the Isle of the Dead with full commentary. Also on-site are a cafe and gift shop, so you can easily spend a full day here.

Take one of the many organised bus tours that depart from Hobart, or drive yourself in about 1.5 hours from Hobart’s city centre.

the Tasman Peninsula: an Action Packed Day Trip from Hobart

The Tasman Peninsula is one of the unforgettable day trips from Hobart where nature’s wonders and local delights blend seamlessly. The peninsula’s geological marvels offer a unique glimpse into the raw power of the sea that shapes the rugged coastline.

I’ve listed the sights and activities in a logical order to prevent back-tracking. Covering so many sights in one day is huge, but you’ll love it!

Please note that the Cape Huay Track walk will take you several hours. If you’re going to hike the Cape Huay Track, you won’t have enough time to complete the remainder of the itinerary in one day. However, it’s easy to make a couple of trips from Hobart to the gorgeous Tasman Peninsula. Stay at one of the many camp grounds or hotels in the area, or drive back another day.

1. Fortescue Bay

Fortescue Bay is a secluded and pristine bay located within the Tasman National Park. The drive from Hobart is about 1.5 hours, but note that the last 12kms (or 7.5 miles) are unsealed. Parking can sometimes be a bit tricky, so try to get here early. There are camping facilities available if you’re keen to extend trip.

Fortescue Bay is known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beach so it’s popular for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Look for pods of dolphins frolicking in the bay, wallabies around the campground, and a rich variety of birdlife in the bush.

Fortescue Bay is also the starting point for several hikes:

• Canoe Bay. See info below.
• Cape Huay Track. The Cape Huay Track – part of the Three Capes Track – is famous for its dramatic sea cliffs and breathtaking views. The track is a moderate (Grade 3-4) trail to the tip of Cape Huay along a 9.3km (or 5.7mi) well maintained out-and-back route. Allow approximately 3.5 – 4 hours. The track also includes around 4,000 steps, so be warned!! En route you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the coastline, with sheer cliffs dropping into the ocean below. The highlights are the towering dolerite columns known as “The Candlestick” and “Totem Pole”. These stunning natural formations are famous among rock enthusiasts and provide a dramatic backdrop for photos.
• Three Capes Track. The Three Capes Track walk is a popular 3 day/ 4 night hike suitable for moderately fit people. It offers spectacular scenery, great cabin facilities at the overnight stops, and an unforgettable experience. If you’re hiking in spring or autumn, you might be lucky enough to see migrating whales!

Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike with rewarding views or a serene spot to relax by the sea, Fortescue Bay and the walks from it make sensational day trips from Hobart!

2. Canoe Bay

The walk from Fortescue Bay to Canoe Bay is a relatively easy 2 hour out-and-back walk. Start by walking along the white sands of Fortescue Bay, then around the headland. From Canoe Bay, you can see the remains of the old ‘William Pitt’ barge that was scuttled in 1955. There is great snorkelling around her steel hull.

3. Port Arthur Lavender Farm and Cafe

The pretty Port Arthur Lavender Farm and cafe is a lovely spot to stop for photos and lavender-infused and inspired treats. Plenty of photo opportunities abound – particularly when the lavender is blooming from December until February. The morning tea and lunch menus are delicious, and the outlook provides a lovely backdrop for some much needed sustenance after a morning of sightseeing!

Attached to the lavender farm and cafe is a gift shop. I’m not usually a fan of built-in gift shops because they’re usually full of kitsch and tacky things. However, the carefully curated selection of products is thoughtful and high quality. I was impressed.

4. Tasmanian Devil Unzoo

The Tasmanian Devil Unzoo is an innovation in the way traditional zoos operate. This is more like a wildlife sanctuary where Australian native animals roam in their natural habitat, and the general public can watch and – at times – interact. The animals have more freedom and self-determination than in a typical zoo setting, and as such, it’s a more natural experience for everyone. Here, you have an opportunity to experience personal encounters with kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, pademelons, echidnas, bandicoots, possums and an array of amazing birds.

There are, of course, Tassie Devils, but those aggressive little creatures are NOT roaming around where the visitors are!

5. Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry

Just a 1-minute drive down the road from the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo is the Tasmanian Chocolate Foundry. Yum! It’s a must-visit for indulging in delicious chocolate that has been handcrafted on the premises. You can watch the chocolates being produced through a window from the shop looking over the manufacturing area. The chocolates – and other chocolate-inspired goodies – capture the essence of Tasmanian flavours. (Not gonna lie – it’s one of my favourite stops and I always extras to take home for family and friends.)

6. devil’s Kitchen

The Devil’s Kitchen is a naturally occurring dramatic rock formation that showcases the power of nature’s erosion over millennia. It’s the result of ocean waves relentlessly crashing into the sandstone cliffs, creating a steep-sided chasm that resembles a massive, rocky cauldron. Standing at the edge, you can peer down into the depths of this geological marvel, where the sea continues its work 70m below, swirling and churning against the rocks.

The surrounding area offers several viewpoints that allow you to appreciate the sheer scale of the Devil’s Kitchen from various angles. It’s a great spot for photography, especially during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset when the light highlights the textures and colours of the rock. Signs signs along the path provide more insight into the geological processes that created this natural wonder.

The Devil’s Kitchen is easily accessible and pairs well with visits to nearby attractions like the Blowhole and Remarkable Cave.

7. Tasman Arch

Close to the Devil’s Kitchen and also part of the Tasman National Park is the much-photographed Tasman Arch. It is a large rock arch formed over thousands of years by huge waves eroding the limestone cliffs. It’s yet another impressive geological site and easy to visit when you’re in the Eaglehawk Neck area.

The Tasman Arch is an easy walk from the carpark. There are safe viewing platforms that allow impressive views of the arch and the surrounding coastline.

8. The Blowhole

The Blowhole is a must-see natural attraction on Tasmania’s Tasman Peninsula, famous for its powerful displays of water spray and sound. Located near the small town of Doo Town, The Blowhole was created by the ocean forcing water through a narrow tunnel in the rock. All that force results in a fast, dramatic jet of water shooting upwards! The strength and height of the spray depend on the tide and sea conditions, with stormy weather providing the most spectacular shows.

There is a well maintained viewing platform where visitors can safely watch the action while taking in the stunning coastal scenery. The site also features picnic areas and walking paths of various length and difficulty, making it a great spot to relax and rejuvenate in the naturally beautiful surroundings. The Blowhole is particularly popular with families; kids of all ages gasp in unison when a particularly big wave comes through!  If you’re interested in geology or just improving your general knowledge, there are various signs scattered around describing in more detail about how The Blowhole was formed.

There are free and clean public toilets just a few metres from The Blowhole and carpark. Then it’s a quick and easy drive to other nearby attractions like the Devil’s Kitchen and the Tessellated Pavement.

9. Tessellated Pavement

The Tessellated Pavement is one of the most curious and photogenic natural formations on the Tasman Peninsula. (It’s actually one of my favourite stops on day trips from Hobart!) Located at Eaglehawk Neck, the Tessellated Pavement consists of flat rock formations that have been naturally sculpted into a grid-like pattern. The rocky shelf has is so even that it looks like human-made tiles or paving stones! The phenomenon is caused by the fracturing of sedimentary rock through a combination of saltwater erosion, and the expansion and contraction of the rock over time.

This site is especially interesting at low tide when the intricate patterns are fully visible, and the reflective pools of water trapped between the “tiles” create a mirror-like effect. The Tessellated Pavement is a favourite spot for photographers, particularly at sunrise or sunset when the lighting enhances the contrast and depth of the formations. Visitors can walk across the rocks, exploring the nooks and crannies filled with marine life such as crabs and small fish.

10. Remarkable Cave

The Remarkable Cave is another interesting geological formation on the Tasman Peninsula. The sea cave gets its name from the ‘remarkable’ (see what I did there?!) feature that appears when you look through the cave’s opening: it resembles the shape of Tasmania!

To reach the cave, park in the car park and walk down 122 steps to the viewing platform. (Most steps are sturdy steel but some are carved into the rock/ earth and so can get slippery in wet weather.) From the platform, you can witness the powerful waves crashing through the tunnel-like opening – particularly during high tide or stormy weather.

The surrounding area is part of the Tasman National Park, which is home to native wildlife and flora. It’s a beautiful spot to visit and to contemplate nature’s power. However, I have left the Remarkable Cave as the last place on my Tasman Peninsula list because I have some reservations about directing you there if you’re only doing a quick day trip from Hobart. Do it only if you have time and energy at the end of your day, but don’t worry too much if your day is filled with other activities.

Maria Island

One of the popular day trips from Hobart is to beautiful Maria Island. Located 4kms (or 2.5 miles) off the east coast of Tasmania, Maria Island (pronounced Mariah – like the singer!) is only accessible by ferry from the mainland town of Tribunna. There are various reputable companies running day trips from Triabunna, as well as five daily ferry services that take about 30 minutes. However, it’s advisable to book – especially in high season – because it can get busy.

Maria Island was the perfect spot for a convict settlement in the 19th century because it was somewhat isolated. While no convicts remain, many of the buildings do, and you can wander through them to get a taste for life in the olden days. In fact, the Darlington Probation Station is now a UNESCO world heritage site. In the 20th century, Maria Island was home to farmers, a cement production company, and even a winery. Today, however, Maria Island is a national park used for wildlife conservation, environmental research, educational programs, tourism and recreation. It’s known for being a sanctuary for endangered native animals (like the Tasmanian Devil), as well as for stunning scenery like the Painted Cliffs – colourful swirl patterned sandstone cliffs.

There are no vehicles on Maria Island so anywhere you want to go must be reached on foot or by bicycle. There are various hikes (like the well known Maria Island Walk), as well as plenty of opportunities for snorkelling, swimming and wildlife watching.

Staying on Maria Island

You can stay overnight on Maria Island, although facilities are fairly basic. There is dormitory-style accommodation at Darlington Probation Station with bunk beds, a communal kitchen and bathrooms. There is no lighting or heating, so you’ll need to bring your own.

Alternatively, there are two camp grounds:

• Darlington Campground – includes toilets, showers, covered kitchen shelter.
• Frenchs Farm and Encampment Cove – more remote, pit toilets, no shower.

Day Trips From Hobart to Tasmania’s East Coast beaches

Tasmania’s east coast boasts some super-spectacular beaches: white sand, flame-orange lichen-covered boulders and deep turquoise oceans that meet wild bushland. Day trips from Hobart are only limited by driving time. I’ve listed east coast beaches within two hours’ drive of Hobart, but there are plenty more options further afield.

• Little Swanport.
• Triabunna.
• Marion Bay.
• Dolphin Sands.

Day Trips From Hobart To the Huon Valley

Tasmania’s beautiful Huon Valley is just a 30-60 minute drive south-west from Hobart. The Huon Valley produces around 80% of Tasmania’s apples, which is why Tassie is known affectionately as the Apple Isle. Along both sides of the Huon River, pretty little towns offer a warm welcome and a slower pace than their city sisters. You could choose relax with a book and some locally made apple cider and tasty treats… Or you could tackle one of the many scenic hikes or adventure activities the area has to offer:

• Kayaking on the Huon River – with a tour or rent a kayak.
• Walk in the clouds at Tahune Airwalk – an impressive forest canopy walk that extends out above the Huon River.
• Hike Hartz Mountain looking for snow (4 hour/ 7.5km (4.5 mile) return). Stop for a swim in Osborne Lake!
• Check out Newdegate Cave in the Hastings Caves State Reserve – the largest dolomite cave in Australia.
• Take a dip in the Hastings Caves thermal pool – warm all year round.
• Browse the local craft shops and galleries – there are plenty to choose from!
• Do an easy and scenic 4km (2.5 mile) round trip walk along (mostly) boardwalk to Duckhole Lake.
• Pack a picnic and head to any one of the gorgeous picnic spots in Huonville, Franklin, Dover, Geeveston or Cygnet. There are public amenities and barbecue facilities available for use.
• Hike South Cape Bay to reach Australia’s southernmost tip (4 hour/ 15km (9 mile) return).
• Sample the local wineries – there are plenty to choose from!
• Try to spot a platypus at Geeveston platypus walk at Heritage Park.
• Take a cooking masterclass! The Huon celebrates its delicious local producers, makers and artisans each March with the Taste of the Huon Festival.
• Take an ATV farm tour and comb a Highland cow!
• Cruise the Huon River. Various cruise companies leave the Franklin area for 1.5 hour cruises most days that include morning or afternoon tea.

Summary of Day Trips From Hobart

Whether you’re craving outdoor adventures, historic discoveries, or just some laid-back beach time, Hobart is the perfect launchpad for unforgettable day trips. From the wild beauty of Bruny Island to the historic tales of Port Arthur and the delicious produce of the Huon Valley, there’s something for everyone. So, pack your sense of adventure, hit the road (or hop on a ferry), and make the most of every moment – these Tassie treasures are too good to miss!