Tasmania is surrounded by a remarkably diverse coastline. Beautiful ocean-swept sandy beaches can be found alongside impassable rocky headlands, boulder-strewn shores, sheltered coves and towering sea cliffs.
Surprising fact: Tasmania’s coast is 2833km in length (4882km including islands) One of my favourite coastal areas is around Eaglehawk Neck where the Forestier and Tasman Peninsulas are joined by a narrow isthmus. On the approach to Eaglehawk Neck detour to the Pirates Bay Lookout for breathtaking views over Pirates Bay and the distant coast.
Tasman Peninsula (Credit: Suzanne Najman)
The Tessellated Pavement can be found on the foreshore at the northern end of Pirates Bay. This rare and intriguing geological formation is a must for photography enthusiasts. The southern end of Pirates Bay is a sheltered anchorage for the local fishing fleet. At the nearby Blowhole large swells surge through a tunnel in the sea cliffs. On our recent visit we drove straight to Tasman’s Arch, within the Tasman National Park, via Doo Town – an amusing village where the houses boast names including “Doo”.
Before starting the 3.5km return walk to Waterfall Bay we revisited Tasman’s Arch and Devil’s Kitchen. These are impressive geological formations on a grand scale created by the eroding action of waves against the rugged cliffs over thousands of years.
The Waterfall Bay Track is wide and set back from the cliff edge amongst coastal vegetation ranging from wildflowers to banksias and eucalypts. Along the track are fenced lookouts positioned to admire the impressive sea cliffs, gulches and caves far below. We marvelled at the rock stacks balancing on rocky platforms and giant arches standing solid in the deep water. From the Waterfall Bay Lookout there are spectacular views to the immense vertical cliffs and waterfall across the bay. The return walk is via the same track.
To discover more about this area and to purchase a National Parks Pass visit the Tasmanian Travel and Information Centre.
Suzanne Najman - Travel Advisor
Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre