Tasmania’s East Coast is a region of contrast - sunshine and sea life, wine and wildlife, crags and beaches, history and adventure. In the north from the Chain of Lagoons to the Bay of Fires and beyond to Mt William National Park, explore the white gold sandy beaches, the bright orange of lichen-splashed granite and the clear turquoise sea. Safe inside Georges Bay at St Helens, the fishing fleet sits snugly against the pier. Beyond the sand bar, the ocean teems with game fish. St Helens is the largest town in the region and is well known for wonderful beaches, huge sand dunes, good fishing and lovely scenery. To the south, past Bicheno, sits Coles Bay beneath pink granite mountains at the entrance to Freycinet National Park. The Coles Bay area is one of Tasmania’s most popular holiday spots for visitors and locals. It overlooks crystal clear Oyster Bay – ideal for swimming, snorkelling, kayaking, boating and fishing.
When to Visit East Coast
Tasmania’s East Coast is generally milder than the west coast. The busy season for tourism runs from December through February, as well as during public holiday and school holiday periods. In summer the average temperature lies between 12 - 22oC; in Autumn 9 - 17oC; in Winter 5 - 13oC; and in Spring 8 - 18oC
Getting Around East Coast
The best way to explore the East Coast is by car. Depart from Hobart and follow the Tasman Highway through to Launceston or vice versa. For the energeticly inclined, Tasmania is small enough to be accessible by bike tours. The East Coast highway is a particularly delightful route, with many towns, national parks and secluded beaches to delight the tourist. One note, Tasmania is NOT flat, so people planning a cycling tour should be those who enjoy the exertion of a spirited ascent.