The 10 best beaches in Tasmania

It may be one of Tasmania’s most celebrated landmarks, but Wineglass Bay isn’t just for taking photos of. It’s a beautiful spot to swim, especially if you’ve tackled the rather steep and rocky hike to the lookout and then down to the beach below. Brave the no-doubt icy temp and marvel at the clearest water you’ve ever swum in – then gear up for the bush walk back to your car via the stunning Hazards track.

Good for: A bucket list moment, cooling off post-hike, exploring Freycinet National Park before and after.

Okay we are slightly cheating here, because the Bay of Fires is actually a string of beaches stretching 50km from Binalong Bay in the south all the way up to Eddystone Point in the north. But why visit one beach when you can visit a bunch? Tasmania’s East Coast is famous for its impossibly azure waters, bleached-white sand and orange lichen-covered boulders, and these beaches will be some of the most picturesque you’ve ever set foot on. Despite their popularity, you’ll still find a secluded spot to spend your day, whether it’s at The Gardens, Seaton Cove, Jeanneret Beach or a tiny secluded bay. Stay in the area and spend a week exploring – in the warmer months, this is a prime camping or van life destination.

Good for: Camping, swimming, rock scrambling, beach-hopping, hiking.

One of Tasmania’s most beloved beaches by tourists and locals alike is Bruny Island’s Adventure Bay. Located on South Bruny, it’s well worth even the day trip on the ferry – but even better if you can spare a weekend or longer staying in this magical place. The east-facing beach is quite sheltered, meaning waters are clear and relatively calm, and there’s lots to do in the area: cruises, kayaking, whale-watching, seal-spotting, hiking and looking for the elusive white wallaby. The rare albino marsupials are known to frequent the bush around Adventure Bay.

Good for: Animal lovers, swimming with kids, camping.

If you’re in Tasmania to escape the hustle of the mainland, then chances are you’re in the market for the most secluded beach imaginable, right? Well look no further than Cockle Creek – literally, you can’t go any further than this in Tassie. The most southern spot in the state (and therefore the entire country), you’ll find the quietest and most serene beaches within the Southwest National Park. With some great short walks and fascinating history (including a random weather-beaten gravestone in the sand dunes), this is what swimming at the edge of the world feels like.

Good for: Peace and quiet, history buffs, hikers, bird-watchers.

A glorious spot in the far northwest of the state, Boat Harbour Beach is located in a beachside town and is an ideal spot for a day trip or coastal getaway. With soft white sand and calm, dazzlingly blue water, it’s the kind of beach you can lie on all day with frequent trips down to the shore to cool off. Head up to the town to grab fresh local battered fish and chips for lunch and make the most of the postcard-perfect view. You’ll find it very hard to leave once the sun goes down.

Good for: Lazing around all day, beach holidays, eating fish, chips and ice cream.

If you’re on a flying visit to Hobart and just want to dip your toes in the water, head to the bougie coastal enclave of Sandy Bay, where you’ll find Nutgrove Beach. One of only a few sandy swimming spots near Hobart’s CBD, you’ll see people strolling, paddling and picnicking here – even outside of summer! A bonus to Nutgrove Beach is the backdrop of fancy real estate and the ever-present kunanyi / Mt Wellington looming in the distance.

Good for: People-watching, dog walking (and patting), paddling, picnics.

Not to be overlooked, the southeast of the state offers up some beaut beaches to visit, too. There’s a bunch of lovely little spots dotted around the Tasman Peninsula – Pirates Bay Beach and Lagoon Beach are highlights – but if you’re an outdoorsy type, add Fortescue Bay to your list. Tucked within Tasman National Park, this remote spot is bordered by towering forests but is worth the hike – or drive – to get there. You can camp nearby, or simply stop off for a dip as you navigate the popular Three Capes Walk.

Good for: Adventuring, kayaking, camping, walking.

The waters on the wild West Coast of Tasmania aren’t the most ideal for a safe swimming session, but that’s not why you visit Ocean Beach. A trip to see this majestic landmark is all about taking in its rugged beauty – a huge 40km stretch of sand, some of the biggest waves you’ll see in Tassie, and the howling winds of the Roaring Forties. Plus, you’ll experience something you won’t find if you’re from the East Coast of Australia: a sunset over the ocean.

Good for: Long (and we mean long) walks along the beach, marvelling at giant waves, sunset watching.

Surfers love Clifton Beach, as its south-facing position brings in some decent swells. It’s not just for hanging ten, though. The shallows are perfect for a paddle and a splash – watch out for rips near the rocks – and the cliffs provide lots of shelter for all-day beach hangs and picnics. It’s patrolled on weekends and public holidays, and can be busy with locals in the warmer months as they defrost post-winter.

Good for: Surfing, picnics, beachcombing in the sand dunes.

Up in the north-east of Tasmania are the calm, clear waters of Waterhouse Point. Just east of the popular holiday town of Bridport, the beaches around Waterhouse Point are hugely popular with Taswegians who enjoy fishing and family beach holidays. Camping around the area is free, and lots of locals and tourists take advantage of not only this, but the perfect swimming and snorkelling conditions. Check out Waterhouse Point, Croppies Beach and the beautiful and secluded Ransons Beach.

Good for: Fishing, rockpools, snorkelling, family beach holidays.