Throw down a towel on these must-see beaches in Tasmania.
Tasmania is rich in natural beauty with rolling hills, national parklands, untamed wilderness and pristine beaches. Suppose you are travelling in Tasmania and wondering which East Coast Tasmania beach you should visit to get a dose of “vitamin sea”. In that case, you will be pleased to know they all have similar characteristics – pristine beauty and unspoilt surroundings.
Upon travelling Australia’s most southern state, you will understand why the east coast is regarded as one of the most beautiful coastlines and highly recommended road trips in Australia.
Continue reading to discover the best beaches in Tasmania.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please read the disclaimer for more information.
Featured Image: Waubs Bay © Kathryn Leahy via Tourism Tasmania
Table of Contents
Must See Beaches in Tasmania
Location: North-East Tasmania Beaches
Bay of Fires
As you explore the Bay of Fires area, a sense of ethereal beauty will overcome you. Over 50 kilometres of gorgeous coastline from Binalong Bay in the south to Eddystone Point in the north, is the world acclaimed, Bay of Fires, and what some would regard as the best beach in Tasmania.
This area is a dramatic part of the east coast boasting a striking colour display. Turquoise blue water meets soft white sand with a backdrop of orange lichen-covered boulders.
With rocky gorges and small secluded beaches found along the coastline, you can be sure to find your piece of paradise to explore while enjoying the untouched surroundings.
Location: Bay of Fires Conservation Area
Binalong Bay
One of the locations to set base and explore the Bay of Fires is Binalong Bay – a small coastal village and the Bay of Fires main beach; it is here you will find one of the most accessible swimming beaches in Tasmania for families. Easily accessed by car off the main road the tranquil setting offers visitors the choice of swimming in a nearby lagoon inlet as well as the exquisite blue waters of Binalong Bay.
Tip: There are public toilet facilities in the car park that is adjacent to the beach.
Location: North Bicheno
Denison Beach
Located not far from the town of Bicheno is maybe one of the East Coasts best-kept secrets – Denison Beach. Grassy dunes create a border along the coastline as rolling waves crash over the silky sand. As Denison Beach is unpatrolled, it is best to leave the ocean waters to recreational activities, such as fishing. The swimming area in this area is Denison Rivulet; located at the north end of the beach where you can paddle in the calm, warm river waters that flow directly into the ocean.
Location: Bicheno
Waubs Bay
Waubs Bay is the local Bicheno beach. This coastal town is well known as a brilliant hub for exploring the east coast of Tasmania, but it also has many attractions on its doorstep. Within the bay are two protected north-facing beaches stretching for 500 metres, and separated by the unmistakable granite rocks that are found along the coast. The sheltered area creates low waves making it a popular and safe swimming area for visitors and locals.
The Bicheno beaches are also a great place to spot fairy penguins emerge from the ocean and waddle up the sand to their homes. Join a nightly tour for a thrilling experience.
Read More: The Most Spectacular Road Trip on Tasmania’s East Coast
Location: Coles Bay
Friendly Beaches Tasmania
The lookout over Friendly Beaches gives you a birds-eye panoramic view of this long stretch of white sandy beach. The blue ocean waters popular for surfing, and fishing are located 18kms north of Coles Bay. Between May and November, this area is an ideal location to see marine life, as you may spot Southern Right Whales as they migrate north and October is a reliable month to see Humpbacks.
Location: Freycinet National Park
Wineglass Bay
Wineglass Beach Tasmania is one of the most photographed bays from above as the unspoiled curve of white sand nestles between national parkland and turquoise blue ocean waters. There are few places as special as this bay due to the access and isolation of the area, and this is one of the reasons why visitors highly regard Freycinet National Park. The 2.5-3 hour hike to the sand is worth the effort as you step foot on what is frequently voted as one of the ten best beaches in the world.
Practical Information: Before entering into Freycinet National Park, you will need to purchase a National Park pass for entry; otherwise fines apply if you are caught without one. The money raised from the park pass goes directly towards the upkeep of the parks and reserves. You can find more information on the National Parks and Wildlife Website.
Location: Freycinet National Park
Honeymoon Bay Tasmania
Don’t let the gravel textured sand deter you from visiting one of the most popular areas along the East Coast for day goers. The secluded bay boasting crystal-clear waters is the perfect choice for swimmers and snorkelers, and the calm conditions make it ideal for those who prefer to spend their time on water exploring with kayaks and canoes.
Located on the edge of Freycinet National Park Honeymoon Bay is found down a bush path and it’s when you reach the clearing that you witness the stunning views of the pink granite Hazard Mountains that loom over this area.
TIP: Honeymoon Bay is a short walk from the Freycinet Visitor Centre and a popular place for picnics.
Location: Swansea
Nine Mile Beach
A short distance from the famous seaside town of Swansea is Nine Mile Beach. The longest beach on the East Coast of Tasmania that curves for around 13 kilometres facing due south into Great Oyster Bay. Swansea is known to have some of the prettiest Tasmanian beaches along this stretch of the coast, including Jubilee, Kelvedon and Spiky.
As one of Tasmania’s oldest towns, rich in history with an array of accommodation options, cafes and restaurants it is a popular seaside town for travellers.
Shop our Beach Essentials
- Towel – A beach towel is now more than something you use after you return from the water. Many towels are now an important fashion accessory and can be used as a wrap, cover-up, and something to sit on and relax. When travelling, it’s helping to have a portable light towel and a bonus if it’s sand-free as that will allow you to enjoy the sugar-like sand without taking it with you for the remainder of the journey.
- Beach Cart – A cart is a brilliant beach accessory for not only visiting the beach, but any outing that requires lots of equipment, and really when your travelling with kids is there ever a time you don’t need lots of items?
- Beach Shade – The ultimate protection from the sunshine is shade, yet this can be difficult to achieve on a beach. A beach shade is a valuable asset as it will allow you to spend even more time enjoying the sand and sea.
- Sunscreen – To reduce the risk of cancer, sunscreen is an important element for sun protection. There are many different types available on the market, but you want a sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection aim for SPF of 30 or higher and one that is water-resistant. It is also important to follow the directions on the bottle and reapply when recommended.
- Water Bottle – A day at the beach will be short-lived if you don’t have some water and snacks. Say goodbye to single-use plastic bottles and fill up a reusable bottle that can be taken with you on every outing.
- Clothing and Hat – Everyone knows the slogan, “Slip Slop Slap”. For maximum sun protection from UV rays, it is important to cover up when possible. A kaftan, rashie, long sleeve swimsuit can all assist with additional sun protection, as well as a wide brim sun hat to keep the rays off your face.
- Beach Toys, Book & Magazine – The beach is not only about the sand and surf; many people visit to relax, read a book, listen to some tunes or watch the hypnotic waves roll onto the sand. Some beach toys will keep the kids entertained, and while they play happily nearby take the opportunity to read your favourite book or magazine.
Which beaches in Tasmania will you be visting on your next trip? Tell me in the comments below.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you follow an affiliate link and go on to purchase that product or service, we may earn a small commission (which I am very grateful for!) at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting Inspire Family Travel as this allows us to continue sharing more helpful content with you.
