King Island is the largest of three islands in Bass Strait, known as the New Year Group. Off the northwest tip of Tasmania, the island has long been famous for top class agriculture, including beef and cheese products. More recently, the island has also been recognised for it’s world class designed golf courses that combine strategic courses, stunning coastline and, just to keep things interesting, powerful winds year round fed by strong westerly winds known to the region as the Roaring Forties.
Access to the island for most is via one of the three airlines that regularly fly to the island, from both Melbourne, Burnie-Wynyard or Launceston airports. The only other way to get to King Island is a charter sail or cruise, which can also be arranged!
Once on the island, there are two rental car companies to make getting about easier. Due to the nature of the island and its polarity amongst surfers and golfers, it is recommended you pre-book your island car hire to avoid missing out. There is a taxi service on the island also, however, the service is limited by its number of vehicles, so it is best to book any must-see itinerary items in advance with the cab company. Get in touch and we can assist you in arranging your on-island transport.
The island is not just a surfing and golfing mecca, of course, although there certainly is quite a lot of both! When the surf’s up, locals and visitors alike will hit the water and a round of golf is never far away, either. Cultural attractions on King Island include the King Island Historical Museum, which details decades of early shipwrecks that ravaged the island and surrounding waters, King Island Arts and Cultural Centre at Currie Harbour, which displays and retails handmade artisan prodcuts, whilst the Portside Links Gallery at Grassy Harbour is a comfortable café on the southern side of the island that exhibits both local and visiting artists and is a lovely afternoon.
Natural attractions on King Island include Seal Rocks and the nearby Copperhead Walk, which follow the dramatic cliff line and take in the ancient Calcified Forest. You will also want to include Disappointment Bay on your King Island itinerary, a long stretch of any but disappointing coast accessed from Cape Wickham Road, on the way to Cape Wickham Lighthouse.
Other things to do on King Island include trail riding experiences, the tasting room at the King Island Dairy Cheese Store and any one of dozens of bushwalks on the island.
Image credits: Andrew Wilson (City of Melbourne Bay, King Island), Andrew Wilson (Cape Wickham Golf Course), Andrew Wilson (Currie)