13 salty east-coast stops and stays
Savour wide skies and fresh sea air on Tasmania’s east coast.
The island’s sunny eastern coastline is a patchwork of laidback holiday towns, bushy national parks and white-sand beaches. With its winding roads and invigorating ocean breezes, the east coast is an ideal place for a road trip, packed with plenty of salt-drenched stops and seaside stays along the way.
From freshly harvested seafood to serene coastal paddles and glamping tents tucked among the dunes, here are 13 salt-inspired east-coast experiences.
1. Taste the ocean
Relishing the slippery saltiness of a fresh oyster is an east coast essential. Take the turn-off to Dolphin Sands and follow the skinny spit of land to Melshell Oyster Shack, where briny bivalves are proffered from the window of a retro caravan. Devour directly or on the nearby shoreline.
2. Season with salt
It doesn’t get much saltier than touring a sea-salt factory. On the coast near Little Swanport, Tasman Sea Salt’s The Salt Sommelier delves into the solar and thermal energy harvesting process, explores how salt impacts the flavour of food, and wraps up with salt tastings paired with local produce.
3. Soak, swim, snorkel
Clamber across orange-flecked granite boulders, bob in rockpools and jump through waves in the larapuna / Bay of Fires area. Plunge into the east coast’s clear waters: lay back and float, or grab a snorkel and goggles and drift across sheltered bays, spotting fish darting and crabs scuttling among seaweed.
4. Find hygge by the beach
Comfort and contentment are king at Still at Freycinet, a private Danish-inspired retreat overlooking Sandpiper Beach. Steep in the sauna, comb along the quiet shore, soak in a hot bath, gather around the firepit, or recline on a cosy couch with a view. Sleeping up to 10 people, this is an idyllic spot to gather your crew.
5. Fuel your maritime spirit
Sip maritime single-malt at Waubs Harbour Distillery, matured just metres from the ocean on Bicheno’s windswept waterfront. Here, the salty air permeates and the stable ocean climate shapes the whisky’s maturation. Tour the restored distillery – a converted oyster hatchery – followed by a guided tasting overlooking the water.
6. Picnic on the sand
Perfect day for dining alfresco? Let Pop-up Picnic Tasmania do the prep work, then indulge in a feast of east-coast treats. Recline on a blanket among sheltered dunes, on a patch of sparkling white sand, or on the shore of a peaceful bay. Nibble cheese and fruit, and savour local wine, content and idle in coastal bliss.
7. Sip wine with ocean views
The East Coast Wine Region is a destination in its own right, home to a smattering of wineries with endless coastal vistas and favoured for its cool-climate pinot noir. Head for Boomer Creek Vineyard cellar door at Little Swanport for a laidback afternoon of tastings, grazing platters and views across the water.
8. Retreat to the shoreline
Slow down and soak it all in at Numie, tucked among bushland at Freycinet. Choose off-grid glamping or up your self-care at the private waterfront retreat, complete with spa, sauna and pizza oven. Glamping tents are within reach of the bay, with private dining pods and views stretching across to the Hazards mountains.
9. Sink into coastal luxury
Further along the peninsula, enmeshed within the natural beauty of Freycinet National Park, are Freycinet Lodge’s Coastal Pavilions. Opt for a bay view or settle in among the trees and relax on the deck. Treat yourself to a massage or melt into the outdoor tub after a day exploring the national park’s walking tracks.
10. Glide across the bay
Drift along the Freycinet Peninsula’s rocky shores and secluded coves on a Freycinet Adventures sea kayaking tour. Feel the salty air on your face, the breeze in your hair and the water lapping at the boat as you paddle beneath the granite peaks of the Hazards on a half-day aquatic adventure.
11. Glamp by the seaside
Get set for a serene stay at Little Beach Co Glamping near Chain of Lagoons, where bell tents are dotted through the coastal vegetation. Appreciate the shared dining space and fire pit, expansive ocean views, and the owners’ strong sustainability ethos and commitment to catering to people of all abilities.
12. Cruise to outer islands
Be whisked across azure waters to Maria Island National Park with Maria Island Cruises. Explore the rugged coastline then venture ashore, where wombats and Forester kangaroos graze grassy slopes. Wander the intriguing UNESCO World Heritage-listed remains of Darlington Probation Station and gain insight into the island’s convict past.
13. Relax by a rivulet
Perched among grassy saltmarsh on the edge of Denison Rivulet, the pared-back Sea Stacks – Shacks of the Denison are thoughtfully designed havens that frame the natural landscape. Filled with natural timber, stone, copper and brass, the three self-contained dwellings overlook the estuary and beyond, and are a peaceful place to while away the day.
East coast FAQs
What can you do on the east coast of Tasmania?
Tasmania’s east coast is a holidaymakers’ haven, peppered with classic seaside towns and peaceful hinterland villages. Jump through waves or relax on the beach. Munch on crisp fish and chips or slurp down oysters. Meander along national park trails or cool off in a waterhole. Follow the East Coast Wine Trail or pick a seat with a view and stay awhile.
What is the weather like on the east coast of Tasmania?
The east coast has a reputation for being sunny, even when the rest of the state is not. This may not always be true, but the region is certainly drier and warmer than Tasmania’s damp west coast, where cool-temperate rainforest flourishes. Tasmania has four distinct seasons: warm summer days prevail from December to February, while winter runs from May through August. The weather is notoriously changeable, so it’s best to come prepared with warm and waterproof layers, sunscreen and a hat.
Where can you drink wine on the east coast of Tasmania?
The east coast is one of Tasmania’s major wine regions, with a constellation of cellar doors dotted along the coastal highway, many offering show-stopping ocean views. Follow the East Coast Wine Trail from Triabunna in the south to St Helens in the north to sample cool-climate pinot noir and an array of refreshing whites, best enjoyed with a grazing platter or fresh local seafood.