Coles Bay is a popular holiday town on the east coast and is a gateway to the breathtakingly beautiful Freycinet National Park. The idyllic surroundings and the stunning coastal scenery of Great Oyster Bay and the pink-hued granite peaks of the Hazards mountains give this town a mesmerizing charm that is hard to beat. Although the local population is quite small, a large number of tourists visit this area to vacation and get away from it all.
Coles Bay is a 2.5-hr drive (192 km) from Hobart and a 2 hr 20-min drive (173 km) from Launceston.
A wide range of options are available in either Coles Bay itself or nearby Freycinet. Visitors can choose from world-class luxury to roughing it in the great outdoors at a campsite or caravan park. Campsites are available just inside the park boundary however it is best to research availability in advance to secure a spot due to the popularity. Image thanks to:Â Pete Harmsen - Touring in Coles Bay.
Visitors can choose to experience a relaxing beach getaway, or opt to engage in multi-day treks through Freycinet National Park.
The uncrowded beaches and clear waters offer the ideal location for swimming, boating, kayaking, sailing, and fishing. Tours are available to explore the area by water or air. Quad biking is another activity worth pursuing for those looking to stay active on land. Alternatively, spend an afternoon soaking in the serenity of the quiet, pristine beaches. Several local beach spots to consider are Richardson’s, Muirs, and the sweetly named Friendly Beaches.
Freycinet National Park is just a short drive away and can be enjoyed for just a few hours or several days. The 10,000 ha park is a wildlife haven, home to a plethora of wildlife and exotic orchids.
The walk to Wineglass Bay lookout is on the top of the list and must not be missed for those wishing to see some spectacular scenery. Many longer walks and treks are available to choose from with a variety of difficulty levels.
For those looking to indulge the senses, consider joining a wine and food tour and taste many of the gourmet products from the region. Image thanks to:Â Tourism Tasmania and Heath Holden - Fishing in Coles Bay.
Coles Bay’s cafes and restaurants serve up everything from coffee and treats to a gourmet dinner of fresh local ingredients. Some of the local specialties include oysters, mussel, scallops, and rock lobster. Delicious, local wine is the perfect beverage to pair with this delightfully fresh seafood! Image thanks to: Mures Tasmania.
Although the area has a rich history of settlement by Aboriginals and subsequently early whalers, it wasn’t until 1934 that the area became known as a popular retreat. It was then that retired auctioneer Harry Parsons purchased 5 ha of land and developed the settlement.
Since then the appeal of the town has increased over time and given it its reputation as a perfect holiday retreat for those looking for relaxation and beauty.
