Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach

This circuit in Freycinet National Park on Tasmania's east coast links Australia's most photographed beach with a quieter coastal track. It's about 11 km and takes around 4–5 hours.

Route. From the Wineglass Bay car park the track climbs steadily over granite steps to the Wineglass Bay Lookout saddle, with the classic view of the curved white beach. Most walkers go on down the steep steps to Wineglass Bay itself, then cross the isthmus on a flat, sandy track to Hazards Beach. The return follows the Hazards Beach coastal track around the base of Mount Mayson, past rocky coves and Aboriginal shell middens (please don't disturb them), back to the car park.

Grade. AWTGS Grade 4. Expect steep stepped sections, rough ground and soft sand.

Access and fees. Freycinet is about 2.5 hours from Hobart or Launceston, via Coles Bay. A Tasmanian parks pass is required. The visitor centre has toilets and information. Wineglass Bay has a basic campground with a toilet.

Tips. Start early in summer. The car park fills up and the open sections can get hot. Carry plenty of water, as there's none on the track. Watch for marine life from the lookout.

Best season. Year-round. Spring and autumn are the most comfortable.

Who it suits. This circuit is ideal for confident beginners and families with older children who want a full half-day outing. Fitter walkers can add the Mount Amos climb, a steep, exposed granite scramble (Grade 5) with the best elevated view of the bay. Don't attempt it in wet weather, because the granite becomes dangerously slippery. Coles Bay has cafés, a supermarket and accommodation, and Freycinet Lodge is close to the trailhead. Allow time at the Freycinet visitor centre to learn about the Oyster Bay (Paredarerme) people, the area's Traditional Owners, and the park's whaling history. Wallabies are common around the car park, but please don't feed them.

Before you go

• Check the official park page for alerts, closures, fire danger ratings and planned burns on the day you walk.
• Check the Bureau of Meteorology forecast for the nearest town and the mountain or coastal district.
• Tell someone your plan and expected return time, or register your trip intention where the park offers it.
• Carry the ten essentials: water, food, map, first aid, warm and waterproof layers, sun protection, a torch, phone and power bank, an emergency shelter, and a personal locator beacon (PLB) for remote walks.
• Leave no trace: take all rubbish home, stay on the track, and respect Aboriginal cultural sites.

Facts on this page were checked against the official park agency source listed below. Conditions, fees and rules change, so always confirm before you go.

FAQ

• Can I just go to the lookout? Yes. The lookout alone is about 3 km return and takes 1–1.5 hours.
• Can I swim at Wineglass Bay? Many do in summer, but there's no patrol and the water is cold.
• Is there water on the track? No. Carry at least 2 litres per person.

Dogs: not permitted. Official source: https://parks.tas.gov.au/explore-our-parks/freycinet-national-park