I visited Ferycinet National Park as part of my 3-day journey in Tasmania, Australia. This page provides essential information about visiting Freycinet National Park. We originally planned to tackle Mount Amos when we visited, but were struck with poor weather and had to cancel the climb. Instead, we visited other popular spots in the park like Cape Tourville Lighthouse and Sleepy Bay.

General Information

Located on Tasmania's east coast, Freycinet National Park is a stunning blend of rugged landscapes and breathtaking views. This park is home to the famous Wineglass Bay and a diverse range of wildlife and is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Freycinet National Park was established in 1916, making it one of Tasmania’s oldest national parks. The park covers an area of approximately 169 square kilometers (65 square miles) and is situated on the Freycinet Peninsula, jutting out into the Tasman Sea.

The park's most famous feature is Wineglass Bay, often ranked among the world's best beaches. The stunning crescent-shaped bay, with its turquoise waters and white sands, is an iconic image of Tasmania. In addition to Wineglass Bay, the park offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, kayaking, wildlife watching, and snorkeling.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Freycinet National Park is during the warmer months, from November to April. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F). Summer (December to February) is particularly popular, with longer days and warm temperatures, perfect for beach activities and hiking. Spring (September to November) is also a great time to visit, with blooming wildflowers adding vibrant colors to the landscape. Autumn (March to May) provides cooler temperatures, ideal for hiking and exploring without the summer crowds. Winter (June to August) is the off-season, with fewer visitors and cooler temperatures (We visited in June, so it's no surprise we were met with poor weather on our day there).

Estimated Budget

Visiting Freycinet National Park can vary in cost depending on your preferences and activities. Here’s a general breakdown:

Park Entry Fee: A daily park entry pass costs approximately AUD $24 per vehicle (up to 8 people). Alternatively, you can purchase a holiday pass for AUD $60, which allows entry to all Tasmanian national parks for up to 8 weeks.

Accommodation: Freycinet offers several camping options within the park. Powered sites at the Richardsons Beach Campground start at around AUD $16 per adult per night. Unpowered sites are also available. Nearby towns like Coles Bay offer a range of accommodation options, from budget cabins to luxury lodges. Prices range from AUD $100 to AUD $400 per night depending on the level of comfort and season.

Activities: Most hiking trails within the park are free of charge. However, guided tours, kayaking, or boat cruises come with additional costs. Guided kayaking tours, for instance, start at around AUD $95 per person for a half-day trip.Other activities such as scenic flights over Wineglass Bay are priced around AUD $150 per person for a short 30-minute flight.

Food and Supplies: Dining options range from picnic lunches in the park to fine dining experiences in nearby Coles Bay. Expect to spend AUD $10-20 for a simple meal or over AUD $100 per person for a gourmet experience.

We stayed at BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet Holiday Park, which was a convenient short drive away from the Freycinet National Park Visitor Centre.

Things to do

Freycinet National Park offers a range of activities and experiences that cater to different interests. From serene walks along pristine beaches to challenging hikes up rugged mountains, there’s something for everyone. The park's natural beauty is its main attraction, with the dramatic landscapes providing a stunning backdrop for all activities.

Hiking and Walking Trails: Freycinet is known for its excellent hiking and walking trails, ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. The Wineglass Bay Lookout walk is one of the most popular, offering spectacular views over the bay. For those looking for more adventure, the full-day Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit is a must-do.

Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including wallabies, pademelons, and an array of bird species. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for wildlife spotting. The park's coastal areas are also great for spotting dolphins, seals, and even whales during their migration season.

Water Activities: The park's coastline is perfect for kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming. Kayaking tours offer a unique perspective of the park’s granite cliffs and secluded bays. Snorkeling around Honeymoon Bay provides an opportunity to explore the underwater world, with colorful fish and marine life.

Other hikes to consider

Wineglass Bay Lookout

The Wineglass Bay Lookout hike is one of the most popular trails in Freycinet National Park, offering stunning views of the iconic Wineglass Bay. The hike is relatively short but steep, with a moderate difficulty level. The trail is well-maintained and features several lookout points along the way.

How to Get There: The trailhead is located at the main car park, just a short drive from the park entrance.
Difficulty: Moderate.
Elevation Gain: Approximately 250 meters (820 feet).
Time Needed: 1.5 to 2 hours round trip.
Round Trip Distance: 3 kilometers (1.9 miles).

Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit

For those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit offers a full-day hike that combines breathtaking coastal views with a peaceful walk along Hazards Beach. The circuit takes you down to Wineglass Bay, across the isthmus, and back along Hazards Beach.

How to Get There: Start from the Wineglass Bay Lookout trailhead at the main car park.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
Elevation Gain: Approximately 400 meters (1,312 feet).
Time Needed: 4 to 5 hours round trip.
Round Trip Distance: 11 kilometers (6.8 miles).

Mount Amos

The Mount Amos hike is a challenging climb that rewards hikers with panoramic views of Wineglass Bay and the surrounding Freycinet Peninsula. The trail is steep and involves some rock scrambling, so it’s best suited for experienced hikers.

How to Get There: The trailhead is at the same car park as the Wineglass Bay Lookout.
Difficulty: Challenging.
Elevation Gain: Approximately 454 meters (1,490 feet).
Time Needed: 3 to 4 hours round trip.
Round Trip Distance: 4 kilometers (2.5 miles).

Hazards Beach Walk

If you’re looking for a more relaxed hike, the Hazards Beach Walk offers a tranquil experience along a secluded beach. The walk is relatively flat and can be done as a standalone hike or combined with the Wineglass Bay Lookout for a longer trek.

How to Get There: Begin at the Wineglass Bay Lookout car park and follow the signs for Hazards Beach.
Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Elevation Gain: Minimal.
Time Needed: 3 to 4 hours round trip.
Round Trip Distance: 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the beach and back, or 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) if combined with Wineglass Bay Lookout.

The Isthmus Track

The Isthmus Track connects Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach, offering a scenic and relatively flat walk between the two. It’s a great option for those looking to experience both beaches without the steep climb involved in some of the other trails.

How to Get There: Access the Isthmus Track from either Wineglass Bay or Hazards Beach.
Difficulty: Easy.
Elevation Gain: Minimal.
Time Needed: 1 to 1.5 hours one way.
Round Trip Distance: 2.6 kilometers (1.6 miles) one way, 5.2 kilometers (3.2 miles) round trip.

Important Information to Note

Weather Conditions: The weather in Freycinet National Park can be unpredictable, so it’s essential to come prepared. Even in summer, temperatures can vary, and sudden changes in weather are common. Always carry a jacket and plenty of water, and check the local weather forecast before heading out.
Safety Precautions: While the park’s trails are generally well-maintained, some areas, especially around Sleepy Bay, can be steep and slippery. Good hiking shoes are essential, and a basic first-aid kit is recommended. Mobile phone reception can be patchy, so it’s a good idea to let someone know your plans and expected return time.
Environmental Protection: Freycinet National Park is a protected area, and visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all rubbish, staying on designated trails, and not disturbing wildlife. Campfires are not permitted within the park, so if you’re camping, use a portable stove for cooking.
Park Facilities: The park has several facilities to enhance your visit, including picnic areas, toilets, and barbecue facilities. The Visitor Information Centre at the entrance to the park provides maps, information on hiking trails, and advice on the best places to visit based on current conditions.
Wildlife: Freycinet is home to a variety of wildlife, including echidnas, wombats, and a wide range of bird species. The park’s coastal waters are also rich in marine life, including dolphins, seals, and, occasionally, whales. Keep your distance from wildlife and avoid feeding them, as human food can be harmful to animals.
Photography: Freycinet is a photographer’s paradise, with endless opportunities to capture stunning landscapes and wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times for photography, with softer light and fewer crowds.

Conclusion

Freycinet National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and serene relaxation. From the iconic views of Wineglass Bay to the rugged coastline of Sleepy Bay, this park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Tasmania.

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