East Coast Tasmania Road Trip: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Journey

Australia’s island state of Tasmania is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, pristine wilderness, and charming coastal towns.

When it comes to exploring the beauty of Tasmania, an East Coast road trip stands out as one of the best ways to lap up all this magical area has to offer. From its cool-climate wineries, remarkable wildlife (hello, Tasmanian devils, seals and whales!), stunning ocean views from the Tasman Sea, boutique accommodation and so much more, it’s time to curate your ultimate road trip playlist and hit the road! 

From Hobart to Saint Helens, Swansea, Orford, and beyond, keep reading as we guide you through your ultimate East Coast Tasmania road trip. 

East Coast Tasmania Road Trip: The Best Route to Drive 

To make the most of your East Coast Tasmania road trip, it’s best to set aside a decent chunk of time so you can enjoy all of the incredible sites of the area. If you have around five days, that would be ideal. 

Start your journey in Hobart, the capital of Tasmania. Kicking things off in a major city means you can easily sort your car hire (and road trip snacks, equally as essential in our humble opinion). 

From Hobart, hit the road and head east on the Tasman Highway (A3). The Tasman Highway will be your faithful companion for most of the journey, taking you through some of Tasmania’s most beautiful landscapes.

While you can tailor and fine-tune your path, a great route to take that would tick off all the key players is mapped out below: 

Day 1: Hobart to Orford via Maria Island National Pak

Day 2: Orford to Swansea

Day 3: Swansea to Freycinet National Park

Day 4: Freycinet National Park to St Helens

Day 5: St Helens to Bay of Fires

East Coast Tasmania Road Trip: Explore

Orford 

It’s essential to stop and explore the pristine beauty of Orford on your East Coast Tasmania road trip. There are stunning beaches like Raspins, Spring, and Millingtons, perfect for swimming, nippy strolls, picnics, and beachcombing. 

Embark on scenic hikes along the coastal tracks, offering breathtaking views of Maria Island and the surrounding landscapes. Indulge in water activities such as fishing, kayaking, and paddle boarding in the tranquil waters of Prosser Bay. 

You can even unwind with a round of golf at the picturesque Orford Golf Club, nestled amidst lush greenery. Don’t forget to remain continuously immersed in the laid-back coastal charm that abounds. 

Sitchu Tip: Visit Spring Bay Distillery for a single malt whisky tasting. 

Maria Island

A 30-minute ferry ride from Triabunna will take you to Maria Island, a remote national park that boasts an abundance of wildlife and historical ruins. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

If you like bushwalking, there are several routes to enjoy. Another way to see the island is to take a guided tour with East Coast Cruises (they run from November to April), which will ferry you around the stunning Painted Cliffs and Fossil Cliffs. They’ll also take you on a two-hour walk to the World Heritage-listed Darlington convict settlement, before tucking into a delicious lunch showcasing the best Tasmanian produce and wine.

If you’re game, you can also snorkel or swim! The island is dotted with plenty of gorgeous beaches and while the water might be fresh, it will be an experience you’ll never forget.  

Swansea 

Welcome to Swansea, Tasmania – where coastal charm meets natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere as you stroll along the pristine white sand beaches, with views of the crystal-clear waters of Great Oyster Bay.

Visit the historic Bark Mill Tavern & Bakery for a taste of local treats and a glimpse into the region’s past.

Whether it’s unwinding by the seaside, indulging in gourmet delights, or embarking on outdoor adventures, Swansea offers something for every traveler. 

Explore the stunning landscapes of Freycinet National Park, just a short drive away, and hike to iconic spots like Wineglass Bay for panoramic views that will take your breath away. 

Freycinet National Park 

Imagine this. Great Oyster Bay with Freycinet National Park and three pink-granite peaks of Hazard Mountain as the backdrop. Freycinet National Park is one good-looking spot to explore Tasmania’s wilderness. Located on Tasmania’s East Coast, walk to secluded bays, pristine beaches and the Insta-famous Wineglass Bay. Our advice? Come at sunrise or sunset for a truly magical view of the Hazards – a must when it comes to things to do in Tasmania. 

Bicheno

A day or two at Bicheno is a must with the relaxed seaside town home to some of the best seafood in Tasmania, beautiful coastlines and two national parks (Douglas-Apsley National Park and Freycinet National Park).

While you’re there, don’t miss a visit to Bicheno’s East Coast Nature World, where you can get up close and personal with native Australian animals, including kangaroos and Tasmanian devils. Or, if penguins are more your love language, Bicheno Penguin Tours take you on a private tour of their rookery at nighttime. 

Sitchu Tip: Come summertime, take a dip in Apsley Gorge, tucked away within the pristine beauty of Douglas-Apsley National Park. 

St Helens

Perched along the picturesque Georges Bay, St Helens serves as the idyllic gateway to Tasmania’s breathtaking Bay of Fires, as well as St Helens Point Conservation Area and Binalong Bay.

This is an excellent town to partake in the region’s renowned seafood scene, with freshly caught southern rock lobster and deep-sea fish gracing local menus. We recommend breakfast at Sco & Co and The Lifebuoy Cafe, oyster and fish and chippies at Skippers Cafe, a cold beer at Easy Tiger, and cocktails and burgers at the SOCIAL. 

For thrill-seekers, embark on a game-fishing charter to reel in marlin and tuna, or dive beneath the waves to discover captivating underwater caves and marine life. Make sure to flock to Skeleton Bay Reserve and Cosy Corner Beach for your first picturesque hit of orange-lichen covered rocks and endless turquoise. 

For cyclists, the St Helens Mountain Bike Trails promise exhilarating adventures amidst stunning landscapes, including the epic Bay of Fires trail weaving through ancient forests to pristine shores.

Bay of Fires 

The Bay of Fires is a must-visit on your East Coast Tasmania Road Trip so make sure you pack your activewear and hiking boots. 

Stretching along the Northeast Coast, the Bay of Fires is renowned for its otherworldly landscapes, wildlife including fur seals, whales and dolphins, turquoise waters, and its striking orange-hued granite rocks, which make for a fantastic photo opportunity.

The area has several walking routes to suit all levels, with shorter day hikes you can immerse yourself in everything the rugged landscape has to offer. Enjoy slower moments beachcombing, kayaking, swimming and spotting the local wildlife whilst taking in the stretches of white sandy beaches, lichen-covered rocky headlands and the iconic Eddystone Point Lighthouse.

East Coast Tasmania Road Trip: Food & Drink

Bear With Me

Even without addiction-inducing halloumi fries (a must try!), Bear With Me would still be up there as one of the very best spots in the state for breakfast – and as we all know, before embarking on any road trip, a filling breakky is a must! The Asian-inspired fusion menu offers the more staple dishes – seasonal granola and impossibly fluffy omelettes, with equal parts surprising options including tofu and peanut butter bao.  

Their single-origin coffee is on point, and their sweet treats are morish. Our favourite seat is the big table up the back with a corner window that offers views of the ever-changing kunanyi / Mt Wellington, although you’ll be happy with any seat in the house. Just a short walk from the Hobart Rivulet walk it’s totally worth booking a table here.

399 Macquarie Street, South Hobart 

The Farm Shed: East Coast Wine Centre

Discover the flavours of Tasmania’s East Coast at The Farm Shed in Bicheno. Indulge in over 90 wines from 24 local vineyards, along with Tasmanian whisky, gin, craft beer, and cider.

Build your own charcuterie boards with premium snacks and local cheeses. Don’t miss their guided tastings featuring hand-picked selections of wine, whisky, and gin.

Plus, if you book ahead, they host some incredible dining pop-ups showcasing local and visiting chefs and the finest Tassie produce. A must-visit destination for food and drink enthusiasts, this is one of the best stops you can make on your East Coast Tasmania road trip. 

53a Burgess Street, Bicheno

Lobster Shack

Tasmania knows fresh seafood, and the Lobster Shack is no exception. Located on the Bicheno coastline, The Lobster Shack specialises in, you guessed it, lobster. Choose between their classic lobster roll, lobster mornay, or go all out and order the seafood platter. All of which can be enjoyed outside on their deck overlooking the breathtaking Tasmanian coastline. 

40 Waubs Esplanade, Bicheno

The Branch

Housed in a 1920s historical bank and aptly named The Branch, this is one of the best pitstops you can make on your East Coast Tasmania road trip. 

Sitting pretty in the heart of Swansea, it’s a place where you can enjoy, relax and dine. Experience all East Coast and Tasmanian produce, alongside wine, cocktails, beer and coffee. Think tapas-style dishes and charcuterie and cheese – and a fireplace made for curling up beside during the off-season. 

In the summer? The leafy outdoor courtyard is made for lazy, hazy days indulging in freshly shucked Melshell oysters and a couple of glasses of Tassie’s finest sparkling. 

7 Maria Street, Swansea 

Mount Paul Lodge at Freycinet Resort

An incredible omakase set menu in the pristine East Coast wilderness? Don’t mind if we do!

With the East Coast known predominantly for its seafood, it’s no wonder why the finest local lobster, oysters, and abalone get star-billing at Mount Paul Lodge, alongside fresh-picked vegetables from the onsite garden.

Sitchu Tip: Taswegians, a head’s up – Freycinet Resort’s exceptional onsite restaurant, Mount Paul Lodge, would like to extend a warm invitation to you all.

Embrace the spirit of community and indulge in an unforgettable dining experience with their special offer tailored just for you. Here, Tasmanian residents can enjoy a 30% discount on our 8-Course Seasonal Omakase set menu (excluding drinks) during the off-season.

Freycinet Resort, 1819 Coles Bay Road, Coles Bay

Freycinet Marine Farm

For an unforgettable dining experience,  have a meal at Freycinet Marine Farm. Book in for an oyster and mussel tour and shuck your own, before sitting on the river with a glass of wine and your hard-earned meal you made yourself!  Not into catching your tucker, not to worry! There’s plenty of fresh (already-caught!) seafood to be enjoyed off the menu too. 

1784 Coles Bay Rd, Coles Bay

East Coast Wineries

No East Coast Tasmania road trip is complete without sampling the best of the area’s cool-climate wineries, and the East Coast is packed with them. 

Spring Vale Vineyard in Crankbrook has a huge range of epic reds, whites, and gins to savour, and their on-site restaurant, Mel’s Kitchen, is set amongst the vineyards. Milton Vineyard in Swansea is known for their delicious cool-climate drops, while a trip to the rustic Craigie Knowe Vineyard is essential (make sure you try their pinot noir).

East Coast Tasmania Road Trip: Shop

Salamanca Market

To market we go. Every Saturday, in the historic Salamanca Place next to Hobart’s waterfront, 300 stalls pop-up for the day to showcase Tasmania’s finest (and freshest) farm-gate produce and handcrafted cheese, bread, wines and spirits. While sampling all the delicious goodness at Salamanca Market, you’ll be sure to fall in love with all the Tasmanian craftsmanship abundant – timber, ceramics, leather, glass, bespoke jewellery, plus a whole lot more. 

Salamanca Place, Hobart

Saint Helens Village Market

If your East Coast Tasmanian road trip lands you in Saint Helens on the weekend, don’t miss the local village market which is held every Saturday. It’s an excellent opportunity to unearth amazing locally-made jewellery, clothes, toys, art and fresh produce. 

The Shop in the Bush

Tasmania is well-known for being an antique hot spot and the Shop in the Bush in Saint Helens is a haven for old-world nick-nacks. Situated in the middle of the bush, expect antique books, rare coins, divine jewellery, unique homewares, and other one-of-a-kind trinkets. Go with space in your car because trust us, you’ll be bringing some goodies home from here.

25977 Tasman Highway, Saint Helens

East Coast Tasmania Road Trip: Stay

Henry Jones Art Hotel

A hotel steeped in history, The Henry Jones Art Hotel delivers equal parts nostalgia and luxury. Each of the 56 rooms elegantly combines modern touches with beautiful heritage features, from the 19th-century sandstone and original windows to the contemporary art-adorned walls. To upgrade your experience, stay in one of their four spacious suites. The best feature? The overflowing infinity spa. Why not treat yourself to some indulgence before embarking on your road trip? 

25 Hunter Street, Hobart

Saffire Freycinet

Road-tripping can be taxing, to say the least so enjoying some five-star luxury along the way makes perfect sense. And that’s where Saffire Freycinet comes into the equation. This award-winning retreat has 20 luxury suites with breathtaking views of the Hazards Mountains, a day spa, and unforgettable culinary offerings (make a booking at their Palate restaurant) and experiences. 

2352 Coles Bay Road, Coles Bay

Freycinet Resort

Another Coles Bay gem is Freycinet Resort. It offers stylish, comfortable accommodation in a wilderness setting.

Spend the night (or a weekend) here taking a break from the ordinary. Breathtaking scenery, abundant wildlife, and serene natural surroundings offer the chance to rediscover what matters most.

The resort has a range of boutique, eco-certified accommodation options. All rooms provide contemporary design and exceptional comfort, made for sweet dreams. 

Not only that, onsite restaurant Mount Paul Lounge is an unforgettable dining experience, where every meal is a celebration of Tasmania’s natural bounty.

1819 Coles Bay Road, Coles Bay

Piermont Retreat 

Overlooking Great Oyster Bay, Piermont Retreat in Swansea makes for a perfect stop-over on your East Coast Tasmania road trip. With an outdoor pool, a tennis court, an award-winning restaurant, plus modern rooms with bay views, you’ll be right at home here. 

12990 Tasman Highway, Swansea 

Beachfront Bicheno Hotel

For comfortable and affordable hotel accommodation in the heart of Bicheno, Beachfront Bicheno Hotel has got you sorted. The Beachfront boasts 50 generously-sized hotel rooms and three, two-bedroom apartments. Enjoy waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore and take leisurely strolls to explore Bicheno’s penguin colony and other local attractions.

232 Tasman Highway, Bicheno 

Whale Song Beach Shack

If you’re after absolute beachfront Bay of Fires accommodation, Whale Song in the town of Falmouth certainly delivers. 

This two-bedroom property has featured in several design publications and it’s not hard to see why. Beautifully renovated, the house was originally built by a fisherman in the 1980s. The connection to the sea is alluringly evident. 

Its private decks allow you to enjoy the expansive views across the beach and keep an eye out for passing whales during migration season. At night, cosy up around the fire or enjoy a warm soak in the outdoor bath as you gaze up at the stars.

50 New Street, Falmouth 

Enjoyed our guide for an unforgettable East Coast Tasmania road trip and want to check out more of Tasmania? Make plans to explore far and wide, from the delights of Hobart to the best bars in Launceston.