When to visit
Any time is the best time to visit Tasmania.
But we’re biased.
Tasmania has four distinct seasons. And for many travellers, seasonal experiences are the main reasons to come to Tasmania.
Here’s what’s happening throughout the year.
Winter
Tasmania does winter well. The Off Season is the prime time to get cosy by a log fire with a glass of pinot noir, warm up on a bike ride, indulge in beachfront storm-watching or visit alpine national parks. Winter days are generally bright, clear and crisp and, in the highlands, snow-capped mountains sparkle in the sunshine. This is the season of hunting with truffle dogs, when oysters and scallops are at their peak, and Tasmanian whisky tastes best (well, we think so). Spot southern right whales and humpback whales travelling north. Join the locals at winter festivals such as the Festival of Voices in July and Tasmanian Whisky Week in August.
Spring
Prepare for longer, warmer days and fresh cool nights. This is the season of wildlife breeding, waratah flowering, and blooming cool-climate gardens in the grounds of historic houses and flower farms. Don’t miss the acclaimed Tulip Festival near Wynyard on the north-west coast. Visit cellar doors – the Great Eastern Wine Week celebrates 10 days of Tassie wine. Spot whales returning south. And it’s trout season – fish for wild brown trout in rivers and lakes across the island.
Summer
When the days are long, the beaches seem longer. The lavender fields are blooming and there’s a sizzling bunch of summer festivals to join: Festivale in Launceston, Taste of Summer in Hobart, and small local festivals and markets right across the state. It's the busiest time of the year, so book well ahead to secure car hire and accommodation.
Autumn
Prepare for the best touring and walking season, with calm sunny days, cool crisp evenings and lots of autumn colours – don’t miss the turning of the fagus, when Australia’s only winter deciduous native plant turns hillsides gold and russet. Autumn is the best time to sample fresh Tasmanian produce at events such as the Devonport Food and Wine Festival. Travellers during autumn are also drawn to events such as the Targa Tasmania rally car race and the biennial Tasmanian Arts Festival (previously called 10 Days on the Island).
