5 Amazing Tasmania Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through one of the most breathtaking destinations on Earth? With its stunning landscapes, storied past, and vibrant wildlife, Tasmania presents ample opportunity for easy-to-access day trips sure to ignite your wanderlust. From the underground world and thermal pools at Hastings Caves to the eerie allure of Port Arthur, it's hard to pick a favorite attraction.

Whether you're a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie seeking local delicacies, this gorgeous island has something for everyone. Buckle up and get ready to discover five amazing Tasmanian day trips!

Bruny Island

Just under a two-hour drive south of Hobart, Bruny Island is an enchanting destination that provides a memorable road trip experience. After a brief ferry ride from Kettering on the mainland, visitors will find themselves in a world of diverse wildlife and pristine nature.

Start your visit at Dennes Point. Here, peaceful beaches and walking trails provide mesmerizing views of the D'Entrecasteaux Channel. Next, indulge in some oysters at Get Shucked before heading toward the island's south side. Stop for a climb to Truganini Lookout for panoramic views of the island.

Just a few miles south, you'll find Adventure Bay. This picturesque Bay entices beach lovers with pristine white sands and calm waters. It's the perfect spot for stand-up paddle boarding and kayaking. Nearby, check out Two Tree Point at Resolution Creek. This vital watering spot for explorers like Captain Cook and Captain Furneaux is a site to behold. The two ancient trees that mark the location are over 250 years old!

Then, there's South Bruny National Park, exploding with opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Cape Bruny Lighthouse (within the park) offers a glimpse into the area's maritime roots, and Cloudy Bay is a great spot to watch surfers ride perfectly formed waves.

Port Arthur on the Tasman Peninsula

Located an hour and a half southeast of Hobart, a trip to Port Arthur is more than worth it, not just for the destination but for the fascinating stops along the way.

One notable detour is Richmond, where visitors can return to the 19th century. This storied town features well-preserved colonial buildings, quaint streets, and the remarkable Richmond Bridge, the oldest bridge in Australia!

Port Arthur itself is renowned for its profound history as a former convict settlement. Established in 1830, it served as a cruel penal colony where thousands of convicts were sent. The site stands as a poignant reminder of the past, a shadow that the Port can't seem to shake, seeing as, in 1996, a mass shooting occurred there, killing 35 people. The massacre is commemorated at a Memorial Garden on site.

After exploring Port Arthur, take a hike in Tasman National Park. Tasman Arch to Waterfall Bay near Eaglehawk Neck is a popular, moderately challenging route. The hike showcases Tasman Arch and Devil's Kitchen, two remarkable natural rock formations carved over centuries by the crashing waves below, and sweeping ocean views.

Huon Valley

A day in Huon Valley is a must while visiting Tasmania. If you're departing from Hobart, anticipate around one and a half hours of driving before reaching your first stop. If you'd like to break up the drive, check out Willie Smith's Apple Shed along the way to learn how cider and apple brandy are made and to taste the fruits of that production.

After sobering up from your cider experience, make your way to Tahune Airwalk, where you can climb 104 steps to a "floating" walkway. This thrilling stroll, suspended 30 meters above the forest floor, presents jaw-dropping views of the Huon River and Valley.

Next on your itinerary is Hartz Mountain National Park. If you're feeling ambitious, hike to Hartz Peak for panoramic views. Take a refreshing dip at Lake Osbourne to cool off before continuing your journey to Hastings Caves and Thermal Springs. You'll want to book a tour of the magnificent caves. The tours grant visitors access to the soothing thermal pools. So, pack a swimsuit and get ready to relax!

On your return trip to Hobart, be sure to stop by Franks Cider House for some light-hearted comedy. The perfect end to a memorable day.

Freycinet National Park

A day trip to Freycinet National Park, located 2 hours and 15 minutes east of Launceston (or 2.5 hours north of Hobart), promises an unforgettable deep dive into Tasmania's wilderness. Where pink-hued mountains and coastal forests meet the striking blue waters of Wineglass Bay, this park is not to be missed.

Wineglass Bay might be the highlight of the park. Often regarded as one of the world's top beaches, its pristine sands and azure waters are perfect for a day of sunbathing, swimming, and relaxing. Hazards Beach nearby delivers equally captivating views and a more secluded experience away from the crowds.

For those seeking additional ways to connect with the water, kayaking around Great Oyster Bay provides a unique perspective of the coastline. Stop by Freycinet Marine Farm to sample some delectable, freshly harvested oysters.

If budget isn't an issue, consider a flight tour over the park with Freycinet Air Tasmania, which will give you a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of Tasmania's natural beauty. Take indulgence one step further and rent a private island—Picnic Island! Once a favorite spot for relaxation and fishing among Indigenous people, this rocky island now houses a private escape perfect for family gatherings and getaways.

Cradle Mountain

Cradle Mountain, one of Tasmania's 10 highest peaks, is located just 2 hours east of Launceston in Lake St. Clair National Park. Make sure to bring your hiking shoes!

On your way to the national park, consider stopping in Longford to tour well-preserved colonial architecture, and don't miss Sheffield, the "Town of Murals." Here, you can admire colorful street art that reflects the region's past and the talent of its occupants.

As you climb in elevation up the Alpine Plateau toward Lake St. Clair National Park and Cradle Mountain, you'll be greeted by jagged mountains, sprawling grasslands, and ancient rainforests. The Dove Lake Circuit is a popular hiking trail that allows visitors to enjoy sweeping views of the iconic Cradle Mountain, while the Overland Track is a longer, six-day hiking experience that immerses walkers in Tasmania's remote wilderness—well worth it if you have the time and gear!

For a different perspective, consider horseback riding with Cradle Country Adventures, where you might catch a glimpse of the elusive Tasmanian devil. For thrill-seekers, signing up for a canyoning tour with Cradle Mountain Canyons provides an exhilarating experience involving waterfall jumps, natural waterslides, and scaling cliff faces, making this destination a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tasmania is an island of diverse landscapes and unforgettable experiences. From the stunning beaches of Bruny Island to the rugged beauty of Cradle Mountain, each day trip offers something new and exciting. Whether you're hiking through national parks, indulging in local seafood, or exploring historical sites, Tasmania promises memories that will last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Pack up and hit the road toward your own Tasmanian adventure! Happy travels!