Tasman Peninsula and Port Arthur

A rugged peninsula south-east of Hobart, where the ruins of Australia's best-known convict settlement meet some of the highest sea cliffs and finest coastal walks in Tasmania.

Region: South East Tasmania
State: Tasmania
Nearest town: Port Arthur
UNESCO: Australian Convict Sites (2010)
Established: Tasman National Park, 1999
Best season: Summer to early autumn; walkable all year
Suggested time: 2 to 3 days

Before you go

Port Arthur was a convict settlement from 1830 to 1877 and is part of the UNESCO Australian Convict Sites. Allow at least half a day.
The national park has dramatic sea cliffs and short walks at Tasman Arch, Devils Kitchen and the Tessellated Pavement, plus longer tracks to Cape Hauy.
Cliff edges are unfenced in places and the weather turns quickly. Use marked tracks, keep children close and carry water and layers.

Convict history

The Port Arthur Historic Site has ruins, restored houses and gardens on Carnarvon Bay, with a boat visit to the Isle of the Dead burial ground. At Eaglehawk Neck, the narrow link to the peninsula, a line of guard dogs once stopped escapes. The Richmond gaol and bridge near Hobart add earlier convict history.

Sea cliffs and walks

Short walks reach Tasman Arch and Devils Kitchen and the wave-cut Tessellated Pavement. Cape Hauy, about 10 km return from Fortescue Bay, ends at dolerite columns above the sea. The multi-day Three Capes Track begins at Port Arthur and must be booked well ahead.

Planning your visit

From Hobart, Port Arthur is about 100 km, or 1 h 30 min, via Sorell and Eaglehawk Neck. Fortescue Bay is about 12 km further on a partly unsealed road. Fuel and shops are limited on the peninsula, so fill up in Sorell. Wildlife is active at dusk.

FAQs

How far is Port Arthur from Hobart?

About 100 km, roughly 1 h 30 min by car via the Arthur Highway through Sorell and Eaglehawk Neck. Most visitors make it a day trip, but two days allow time for the sea-cliff walks.

Do I need a pass for Tasman National Park?

Yes, a Tasmania Parks Pass is needed in the national park. The Port Arthur Historic Site has its own separate ticketing, so check what each covers before you go.