Plan your visit
Planning Your Day at Freycinet
Freycinet National Park offers short walks, multi-day circuits, and coastal cruising. Here is how to structure your time.
Wineglass Bay Cruises and Freycinet National Park Walks
61 Jetty Road (Cruises) / Freycinet Drive (National Park), Coles Bay, TAS 7215
GPS -42.1228, 148.2886
Open directionsGetting there
Drive times and parking details for Coles Bay.
| How | Time | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Car: Drive to Coles Bay, which is about 2.5 hours from Hobart (via the Tasman Highway) or 2 hours from Launceston. | 2-2.5 hours | National Park Pass required | Free parking is available near the Coles Bay Jetty for cruise guests, and at the National Park walking tracks car park (can get very busy in peak season). |
| Boat: Wineglass Bay eco-cruises depart from the booking office at 61 Jetty Road, Coles Bay. | 4.5 hours | From $165 AUD | Offers a unique water-level perspective of the Hazards, hidden sea caves, and remote beaches. |
| Walk: Hike from the Freycinet National Park walking tracks car park. | 1.5 hours to multi-day | Free (with Park Pass) | Options range from the short Wineglass Bay Lookout walk to the full Freycinet Peninsula Circuit. |
When to go
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QuietModerateBusyPeak
Freycinet is open year-round. December to April provides the best weather for hiking and kayaking. If you want to see migrating whales, visit between September and December or May and July.
What to bring
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Remember to pack plenty of drinking water.
Water sources are limited within the national park boundaries.
How the day runs
Suggested itineraries for different fitness levels and schedules.
Tackle the famous lookout walk before relaxing on the beach.
- Arrive in Coles Bay
Purchase your Parks Pass and park at the walking tracks car park.
- Hike to the Lookout
Complete the 2.6 km return Wineglass Bay Lookout track (Grade 3).
- Descend to the Beach
Extend your walk down to the white sands of Wineglass Bay Beach.
- Return to car
Hike back up the steep track and return to Coles Bay for lunch.
Combine a morning hike with an afternoon eco-cruise.
- Morning Hike
Hike to the Wineglass Bay lookout early to avoid crowds.
- Lunch in Coles Bay
Drive back to Coles Bay and grab a meal near the jetty.
- Board the Catamaran
Check in for the Wineglass Bay eco-cruise at 61 Jetty Road.
- Return to Jetty
Disembark the Schouten Passage II after 4.5 hours on the water.
Packing for Freycinet
Tasmanian weather changes quickly. Pack a windproof and waterproof jacket, even in summer. Wear sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes, especially if you plan to walk down to Wineglass Bay Beach, as the track is steep.
Bring sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and binoculars for spotting seals and sea eagles. If you are taking the 4.5-hour boat tour, consider motion sickness medication, as the ocean swells can be rough. Learn more in our guide on Packing Guide.
Easiest way to do it
Wineglass Bay & Freycinet NP Full Day Tour from Hobart via Richmond Village
10 h 30 min 4.8 (547)
- Travel in comfort in 13 seat, air conditioned bus
- Friendly, knowledgeable local guide with a passion for the environment, tourism and making your experience memorable
- Guided tour to all visited locations
- National Parks Pass Fee
From$125per person
Cancellation terms differ by platform and listing. Check them before you pay.
Planning questions
Where do I park?
Free parking is available near the Coles Bay Jetty for cruise guests. For walkers, park at the National Park walking tracks car park, which fills up quickly in peak season.
Is there drinking water on the trails?
No. You must carry in all your drinking water. There are limited water sources in the park, and tank water at campsites is not reliable.
Can I fly a drone?
No. Drones are strictly prohibited from use within all Tasmanian national parks. Leave them at home.