8 things you can only do in Tasmania

Being an island off an island, things can get a little different down here.

From endless rows of lavender-scented delights to meticulously crafted wooden vessels and some really, really old beer, there’s a whole lot of things to do in Tasmania that you simply can’t do anywhere else.

1. Stimulate your senses at the world’s largest privately-owned lavender farm

Bridestowe Lavender Estate becomes a purple-hued playground from December through January. Wander freely in fields of thickly scented summer blooms or take a private behind-the-scenes tour of the farm. Top off your visit with a tantalising taste of lavender ice cream or secure yourself a stash of lavender honey to bring home.

If one floral outing isn’t enough, be sure to check out other lavender farms across Tasmania.

2. Seek out Australia’s wildest big-wave surf

Whether you’re a big-wave pro or prefer to watch from the safety of shore, the powerful waves crashing into the cliffs at Shipstern Bluff on Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula are an immense sight to behold. Time your visit for when it’s ‘working’ (as the surf folk say) by checking the surf report before you go.

You’ll find a prime viewing spot for ‘Shippies’ (the surf folk, again) near Nubeena.

While this mighty wave is best left to the pros, there’s no shortage of water activities to try in Tasmania.

3. Discover a world of wooden boats

Create a canoe or perfect a paddle at the Wooden Boat Centre, Australia’s only traditional boat-building school. This workshop is tucked beside the Huon River in Franklin where you can dip your toe in with a tour or dive straight into a multi-day course.

Amidst the buzz of the Australian Wooden Boat Festival, celebrate your new-found craft and discover rare Tasmanian timbers used by skilled shipwrights such as endemic Huon and King Billy pines.

4. Meet the world’s largest carnivorous marsupial on home turf

True to their Latin name, Sarcophilus (meat lover), Tasmanian devils are notoriously noisy while devouring a carcass. Perhaps surprisingly, these endangered creatures err on the shy side and are not a danger to people unless threatened.

Discover efforts to preserve Tasmania’s charismatic creatures at Devils@Cradle, Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary, Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary, Wings Wildlife Park and Tasmanian Devil Unzoo.

5. Visit Australia’s largest collection of World Heritage convict sites

Turn back time at five of Australia’s 11 UNESCO World Heritage Convict Sites scattered across the island. Find curious old buildings and rubble, artefacts and remarkable tales at Port Arthur Historic Site, Coal Mines Historic Site, Cascades Female Factory Historic Site, Darlington Probation Station, and Brickendon and Woolmers Estates.

For more historic things to see in Tasmania, go beyond the convict sites and delve into Tasmania’s history and heritage.

6. Marvel at the highest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere

Towering over 300m high, the stacks of dolerite crowning Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula are a wonder. Marvel from above on the Three Capes Track or approach from sea level with Tasman Island Cruises and Roaring 40s Kayaking.

Discover natural wonders and coastal rocks around the state for more of Mother Nature’s greatest hits.

7. Tour the country’s oldest continually operating brewery

Brewing beer since 1824, Cascade Brewery is still providing frothy, thirst-quenching pints, best slurped from the bar at its historical estate in Hobart. Devour some pub grub while you sip, or learn about one of the nation’s oldest beer recipes during a brewery tour. To continue your beer history tour of Tasmania, pay a visit to James Boags Brewery in Launceston.

8. Catch a show at the oldest working theatre in Australia

Sticking to the theme of longevity, Hobart’s Theatre Royal has been pleasing punters since 1837. Grab a seat at a show or take a tour for insight into the building’s storied past.

On the west coast, theatre history remains alive and well: check out the art deco delights of Paragon Theatre in Queenstown or settle in for a silent film at Zeehan's Gaiety Theatre.

Tasmania FAQs

Are there other places to surf in Tasmania?

If you’re more of a small-to-medium wave surfer, you’ll find many suitable surfing spots dotted along Tasmania’s coastlines with surf schools and surfboard hire at many popular beach breaks. Pack your wetsuit and hire a car to make the most of Tasmania’s surf breaks.

Is Port Arthur wheelchair friendly?

Most attractions at Port Arthur Historic Site on Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula (and its sister site Cascades Female Factory Historic Site in Hobart) are wheelchair accessible – check in with visitor services staff on arrival for more information. Explore more accessible travel options in Tasmania.

What else can I see on Turrakana / Tasman Peninsula?

Home to Tasman National Park, this region is packed with walking tracks, geological wonders, idyllic camping spots and thrilling outdoor activities. Don’t miss visiting the Tessellated Pavement and Tasman Arch at Teralina / Eaglehawk Neck (via the delightful hamlet of Doo Town).