I’ll admit it: planning a family road trip around Tasmania felt overwhelming at first. Between coordinating nap times, keeping teenagers entertained, and ensuring nobody ended up hangry in the middle of nowhere, I wondered if we’d bitten off more than we could chew. But after two glorious weeks circumnavigating Australia’s island state, I can confidently say that Tasmania might just be the perfect family road trip destination.
Tasmania’s compact size (you can drive from north to south in about three hours) combined with its incredible diversity makes it ideal for families. We encountered pristine beaches, ancient rainforests, fascinating wildlife, and some of the freshest food I’ve ever tasted, all without spending endless hours in the car. The locals were universally friendly, the roads were well-maintained, and crucially for families, facilities were clean and accessible almost everywhere we went.
This itinerary is designed for a 10 to 14-day journey, though you could easily extend it if you have more time. I’ve included practical tips I wish I’d known before we left, along with honest assessments of what worked brilliantly with our kids and what we’d skip next time.
Planning Your Tasmania Family Road Trip
Best Time to Visit
We travelled in late spring (November), which turned out to be perfect. The weather was mild, wildflowers were blooming, and we avoided both the winter chill and summer crowds. That said, Tasmania is genuinely beautiful year-round.
Summer (December to February) offers the warmest weather and longest days, making it ideal for beach activities and camping. However, this is peak tourist season, so expect higher accommodation costs and busier attractions. Book everything well in advance.
Autumn (March to May) brings stunning foliage and comfortable temperatures. We met several families who’d visited during Easter holidays and raved about the experience. The added bonus? Fresh autumn produce at every roadside stall.
Winter (June to August) is quieter and more affordable, though you’ll need to pack warm clothing and be prepared for rain. Some walking tracks may be closed, but this is an excellent time for cosy accommodation with fireplaces and potential snow on Mount Wellington.
Spring (September to November) offers great value with fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Wildflowers transform the landscape, and baby animals abound at wildlife parks, which absolutely delighted our children.
Choosing Your Vehicle
We hired a mid-sized SUV, which proved perfect for our family of four plus luggage. The extra boot space was essential for groceries (we saved a fortune by self-catering some meals) and the occasional impulse purchase of local honey or wine.
If you’re travelling with very young children, ensure your hire vehicle can accommodate car seats. Most rental companies provide these, but book them separately when making your reservation. We brought our own booster seats, which saved money and ensured our kids were comfortable.
Four-wheel drive isn’t necessary for this itinerary, though it opens up additional adventure opportunities if you’re keen on exploring more remote areas. Standard vehicles handle Tasmania’s main roads perfectly well.
Accommodation Strategy
We mixed our accommodation types, which kept costs manageable and added variety to the trip. Self-contained cottages and apartments were brilliant for families, offering kitchens (hello, breakfast cost savings), washing machines, and space for children to decompress after long days.
Booking accommodation with kitchen facilities saved us approximately $50 to $80 daily on meals. We’d grab fresh produce from local markets, cook simple dinners, and save our dining-out budget for genuinely special restaurants.
I’d strongly recommend booking accommodation before you depart, particularly if travelling during school holidays. Tasmania’s popularity has surged in recent years, and family-friendly options fill quickly.
Packing Essentials
Tasmania’s weather can be unpredictable, so layers are your friend. Even in summer, pack warm clothing for evenings and higher altitudes. We used the “onion approach”, dressing children in multiple thin layers rather than bulky jumpers.
Other essentials that proved invaluable:
- Reusable water bottles (tap water is excellent everywhere)
- Sun protection (Tasmania’s hole in the ozone layer means intense UV)
- Insect repellent for bushwalks
- First aid kit including motion sickness tablets
- Portable phone charger
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting
- Comfortable walking shoes for everyone
Day 1-2: Hobart Base
Most families will arrive via Hobart, Tasmania’s charming capital. Rather than immediately hitting the road, we spent our first full day adjusting to the pace and exploring the city. This proved wise, as everyone was tired after early morning flights.
Salamanca Market
If you arrive on a Friday, plan to spend Saturday morning at Salamanca Market. This iconic outdoor market stretches along Salamanca Place, offering everything from fresh produce to handcrafted toys. Our children loved the buskers, and we stocked up on local treats including the most incredible berry jam that disappeared far too quickly.
The market operates from 8:30am to 3pm every Saturday. Arrive early to beat crowds and secure the best produce. We discovered an amazing stall selling freshly made doughnuts that became our weekend tradition.
MONA (Museum of Old and New Art)
MONA divided our family. I found it fascinating; my husband thought it brilliant; our teenagers were intrigued; our eight-year-old was bored within twenty minutes. The museum is undeniably thought-provoking and unlike anything else you’ll experience, but it’s definitely geared toward adults.
The ferry journey from Hobart to MONA was actually the highlight for our younger child, who loved being on the water. If you do visit, the museum’s grounds offer plenty of space for children to explore, and the wine bar overlooking the Derwent River is perfect for parents needing a break.
Entry costs around $39 for adults (children under 18 are free), and I’d budget at least three hours for your visit.
Mount Wellington/Kunanyi
The 20-minute drive from Hobart to the summit of Mount Wellington is non-negotiable. The panoramic views across Hobart, the Derwent River, and beyond are absolutely spectacular. We timed our visit for late afternoon, which meant we avoided the worst of the wind and enjoyed golden hour light.
Pack warm clothing regardless of Hobart’s weather. The summit can be 10 degrees cooler and significantly windier than the city below. There’s a viewing platform and a cafe, though the latter’s offerings are fairly basic.
If your children are capable walkers, numerous trails descend from the summit through stunning alpine vegetation. We tackled a short section before deciding the wind was too fierce for comfort.
Battery Point
This historic neighbourhood adjacent to Salamanca is perfect for an afternoon wander. The narrow streets, colonial cottages, and village atmosphere charmed us all. We grabbed fish and chips from a local shop and ate them overlooking the water, watching boats navigate the harbour.
Day 3-4: Freycinet National Park
Leaving Hobart, we drove north along the east coast to Freycinet National Park, approximately 2.5 hours away. This section of coastline is spectacular, and we stopped multiple times at beaches and lookouts that caught our eye.
Wineglass Bay
Wineglass Bay consistently appears on “world’s best beaches” lists, and it genuinely deserves the acclaim. The crescent of white sand and turquoise water is breathtaking, though getting there requires effort.
We tackled the Wineglass Bay Lookout walk (approximately 45 minutes uphill) as a family. The track is well-maintained with regular steps, but it’s steep enough that our eight-year-old needed encouragement. We took it slowly, pausing regularly for water and photographs.
The lookout rewards you with that famous view you’ve seen in countless photographs. We then descended to the beach itself (another 30 minutes), which was less crowded and allowed for swimming and exploring. The children loved searching for shells while we caught our breath.
Pack morning tea and plenty of water for this walk. There are no facilities at the beach, so carry everything in and out. Swimming is glorious but be aware there are no lifeguards or shark nets. The water was cooler than expected even in late spring.
Honeymoon Bay
If Wineglass Bay feels too ambitious (or if you’ve already conquered it), Honeymoon Bay offers an easier alternative. The 30-minute return walk is mostly flat and suitable for younger children. The beach is smaller but equally beautiful, and we virtually had it to ourselves.
Friendly Beaches
A slight detour from the main park area, Friendly Beaches are a local secret that shouldn’t be missed. The long stretch of sand backed by dunes and she-oak trees felt wonderfully remote. We spent several hours here building sandcastles, swimming, and simply relaxing.
The beach is patrolled by lifeguards during summer, making it a safe choice for families. There are basic facilities including toilets and picnic tables.
Accommodation Near Freycinet
We stayed at a self-contained cottage in Coles Bay, the gateway town to Freycinet. Booking directly with property owners often yields better rates than using booking platforms. Our cottage had a full kitchen, washing machine, and deck where we enjoyed evening barbecues while watching the sun set over the Hazards mountain range.
Coles Bay has a general store, bakery, and a few restaurants. Stock up on groceries before arriving, as prices are higher than in larger towns.
Day 5-6: Bay of Fires and Launceston
Continuing north, we made our way toward the Bay of Fires, one of Tasmania’s most photographed coastlines. The drive takes approximately two hours from Freycinet, passing through small fishing villages and agricultural land.
Bay of Fires
The Bay of Fires earns its name from the orange lichen covering the granite boulders that dot the coastline. Against the white sand and blue water, the effect is genuinely stunning. We stopped at multiple access points, each offering different perspectives.
Binalong Bay serves as the southern gateway and offers the easiest beach access with proper facilities. Our children spent hours exploring rock pools teeming with sea life. Bring sturdy shoes for scrambling over rocks, and be mindful of waves, which can occasionally surge higher than expected.
The Gardens is another popular spot, featuring dramatic boulder formations and crystal-clear water. We enjoyed a picnic lunch here, sheltered by rocks from the wind.
If you’re feeling adventurous, the Bay of Fires Lodge Walk is a four-day guided experience, but that’s definitely one for when the children are older.
St Helens
The coastal town of St Helens makes an excellent base for exploring the Bay of Fires region. We stayed at a holiday park with ensuite cabins, which worked brilliantly for our budget. The kids made friends with other families, and the camp kitchen provided a social atmosphere.
St Helens offers better dining and shopping options than smaller coastal settlements. We discovered an excellent fish and chip shop that used local catches, and a bakery that produced the finest vanilla slice I’ve encountered in Australia (yes, better than Bridport, controversy intended).
Launceston
From St Helens, we drove inland to Launceston, Tasmania’s second-largest city. The journey takes around 90 minutes through farming country and forest.
Launceston surprised us with its charm. The city retains a Victorian-era feel with well-preserved architecture and a relaxed pace that made it easy to navigate with children.
Cataract Gorge was our main reason for visiting, and it exceeded expectations. This spectacular natural formation sits just 15 minutes from the city centre, where the South Esk River carves through sheer cliffs. We walked the trails on both sides of the gorge, crossed the suspension bridge (thrilling for the children), and rode the chairlift for aerial views.
The chairlift claims to have the longest single-span chairlift in the world. Whether that’s accurate or not, the experience is wonderful, gliding high above the gorge with views stretching across the city. Our eight-year-old was nervous initially but ended up begging to go again.
First Basin, at the gorge’s heart, features a swimming pool, lawns, peacocks, and cafe. We spent a lazy afternoon here, swimming in the pool while enjoying the cliff views. It felt surreal to be in such a natural setting so close to a city centre.
City Park is worth visiting if you have time. The Japanese macaques (monkeys) housed here fascinated our children, and the park’s Victorian-style gardens offered a pleasant stroll.
We stayed two nights in Launceston, using the second day to explore the Tamar Valley wine region. While the adults appreciated the cellar doors, our children were less impressed (understandably). In retrospect, we could have spent this time differently, perhaps visiting Penny Royal Adventures, an indoor play centre that several families recommended.
Day 7-8: Cradle Mountain
From Launceston, we drove approximately two hours to Cradle Mountain, arguably Tasmania’s most famous natural landmark. The landscape shifts dramatically as you travel west, with alpine vegetation and rugged peaks replacing the gentler eastern terrain.
Dove Lake Circuit
The Dove Lake Circuit is Cradle Mountain’s iconic walk, a six-kilometre loop around Dove Lake with Cradle Mountain as a backdrop. The track is well-maintained and mostly flat, though there are some rocky sections and boardwalks.
We completed the circuit in approximately two hours, stopping frequently for photographs and morning tea. The views changed constantly as we circled the lake, each perspective revealing different aspects of the mountain and surrounding peaks.
Our eight-year-old managed the walk comfortably, though younger children might find it too long. The track is popular, so expect company, particularly during summer and weekends. We started early (departing our accommodation by 7:30am) and enjoyed relative solitude for the first half of our walk.
Enchanted Walk
For an easier option, the Enchanted Walk near Cradle Mountain Hotel offers a short rainforest experience suitable for all ages. The track winds through ancient myrtle and sassafras trees, with interpretive signs explaining the ecosystem. Our children loved the mystical atmosphere created by moss-covered trees and trickling streams.
Wildlife Spotting
Cradle Mountain is excellent for wildlife encounters. We spotted wombats, wallabies, and countless birds during our stay. Dawn and dusk offer the best opportunities, when animals emerge to feed.
One evening, we participated in a nocturnal wildlife spotting tour, which revealed a completely different world. Our guide helped us spot possums, quolls, and a Tasmanian devil (in the wild!). The experience cost around $90 per adult, but the children’s excitement made it worthwhile.
Practical Considerations
Cradle Mountain’s weather is notoriously unpredictable. We experienced sunshine, rain, wind, and fog during our 48-hour stay. Pack waterproof jackets, warm layers, and accept that conditions can change rapidly.
Between November and April, private vehicles cannot access Dove Lake. Instead, you’ll take a shuttle bus from the visitor centre (included in park entry fees). The shuttle departs every 10 to 15 minutes and takes about 10 minutes to reach Dove Lake. This system reduces congestion and environmental impact, though it does require slight planning around bus times if you have young children who need toilet breaks.
Park entry costs $20.30 per adult daily or $40.50 for two days. Children under 18 enter free. If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks, consider purchasing a Holiday Parks Pass ($60 for two months), which covers most of Tasmania’s parks and reserves.
Accommodation options near Cradle Mountain range from camping to luxury lodges. We stayed at a cabin with a fireplace, which felt absolutely perfect after cold days exploring. Book well ahead, as availability is limited and demand is high.
Day 9-10: West Coast
From Cradle Mountain, we headed west toward Strahan, approximately two hours through remote wilderness. This section of the journey reveals Tasmania’s wild heart, with virtually no mobile reception and minimal development.
The Drive
The Anthony Road between Cradle Mountain and the west coast winds through buttongrass plains and ancient rainforest. We stopped multiple times to photograph landscapes that looked prehistoric. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, particularly echidnas, which we spotted several times.
Strahan
Strahan sits on Macquarie Harbour, Tasmania’s second-largest harbour. This charming town served as our base for exploring the west coast’s attractions.
The town itself is small, with a handful of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The waterfront offers pleasant walking paths, and watching fishing boats and pleasure craft navigate the harbour provided free entertainment for our children.
Gordon River Cruise
The Gordon River Cruise is Strahan’s main attraction, and it lived up to expectations. We chose the half-day cruise (around six hours), which departed mid-morning and returned by late afternoon.
The vessel travels across Macquarie Harbour, through Hell’s Gates (the narrow harbour entrance), and up the Gordon River into pristine wilderness. The river itself is stained brown by tannins from button grass, creating an eerie, beautiful atmosphere.
We stopped at Sarah Island, a former penal settlement even harsher than Port Arthur, where a guide shared confronting convict history. The ruins are minimal, but the isolation speaks volumes about the brutality prisoners endured.
Further upriver, we disembarked for a boardwalk through ancient Huon pine forest. These trees can live thousands of years, and walking among them felt humbling. The rainforest was unlike anything we’d experienced on the trip, dripping with moisture and alive with birdsong.
The cruise includes a buffet lunch, which was adequate if unexciting. Our children enjoyed spotting sea eagles, cormorants, and seals during the journey. The cruise costs around $145 for adults and $60 for children, making it one of our most expensive activities, but we all agreed it was worthwhile.
Ocean Beach
A 20-minute drive from Strahan, Ocean Beach stretches for 40 kilometres of wild, windswept beauty. We visited late afternoon, and the combination of enormous waves, scattered driftwood, and dramatic lighting created an unforgettable atmosphere.
This beach is emphatically not for swimming due to dangerous currents and cold water. Instead, we walked, collected shells, and watched our children burn off energy racing along the sand. The sense of isolation, with nothing between you and Antarctica, is palpable and exhilarating.
Day 11-12: Hobart Return via Port Arthur
Our final leg took us from Strahan back to Hobart, approximately four hours. Rather than rushing, we broke the journey with an overnight stop near Port Arthur.
Port Arthur Historic Site
Port Arthur is Tasmania’s most significant historical attraction, a former penal settlement that operated between 1830 and 1877. The site is extensive and profoundly moving.
We arrived mid-morning and spent approximately four hours exploring. The ruins are remarkably well-preserved, and interpretive displays throughout explain convict life in confronting detail. A harbour cruise (included in entry) provides different perspectives and access to the Isle of the Dead cemetery.
Our children found Port Arthur both fascinating and sobering. The site doesn’t shy away from the brutal realities of convict punishment, so be prepared for confronting information. That said, the presentation is thoughtful and educational rather than gratuitously graphic.
I’d recommend the guided tour included with admission. Our guide brought the site to life with stories of individual convicts and officers, making the history feel immediate rather than distant.
Entry costs around $45 for adults and $20 for children, though family tickets offer better value. Budget at least half a day for your visit, or a full day if you’re particularly interested in history.
The site has a decent cafe and large gift shop. We bought an excellent book about Tasmania’s convict history, which our teenagers actually read.
Tasman Peninsula Scenery
The drive to Port Arthur via the Tasman Peninsula offers spectacular coastal scenery. We stopped at several lookouts including the Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen, dramatic rock formations carved by the Southern Ocean.
Remarkable Cave was our favourite detour. A short path leads to a cave that frames views of the ocean, creating a natural window to the sea. The rock formations and crashing waves mesmerised us all.
These stops add about an hour to your journey but are absolutely worth it. Pack a jacket, as coastal winds can be fierce.
Returning to Hobart
We spent our final night back in Hobart, arriving late afternoon. The following morning, before our afternoon flight, we revisited Mount Wellington and squeezed in one final meal at Salamanca’s waterfront restaurants.
Practical Tips for Families
After two weeks on the road, we learned numerous lessons I wish we’d known beforehand.
Fuel Strategy
Petrol stations are plentiful in major towns but scarce in remote areas. We developed a rule: never let the tank drop below half full in wilderness regions. This reduced anxiety about running out of fuel and gave us flexibility to take spontaneous detours.
Fuel prices vary significantly. Hobart and Launceston offer the cheapest petrol, while remote areas charge premium prices. Fill up in cities whenever possible.
Grocery Shopping
Self-catering saved us considerable money and provided flexibility. We’d shop at supermarkets in larger towns (Hobart, Launceston, Devonport), buying supplies for several days. Most accommodation had adequate cooking facilities, and preparing simple dinners meant we could splurge on special lunch or dinner experiences.
Tasmania’s local produce is exceptional. We bought fresh bread from small-town bakeries, fruit from roadside stalls, and cheese from artisan producers. These items cost only marginally more than supermarket equivalents but tasted dramatically better.
Managing Screen Time
Despite our best intentions about limiting devices, screen time was essential for long drives. We downloaded ABC Kids podcasts, audiobooks from our library, and allowed tablet games during longer stretches. This prevented fighting between siblings and allowed us to enjoy the scenery rather than mediating disputes.
Building in Downtime
Every third or fourth day, we scheduled lighter activities or allowed the children to choose how to spend a few hours. This prevented burnout and reduced whinging about yet another walk or museum. Sometimes, the best family activity is lounging by accommodation with books or games while children decompress.
Unexpected Expenses
Budget for parking fees in popular areas, national park entry fees, and the occasional unexpected attraction. We also spent more than anticipated on coffee (Tasmania’s coffee culture is excellent) and local products we couldn’t resist.
Wildlife Safety
Tasmania’s wildlife is generally less dangerous than mainland Australia, but basic precautions apply. We taught our children never to approach wombats (they can be aggressive) or feed any wildlife. Always supervise children near water, as seals occasionally visit beaches and can be territorial.
What We’d Do Differently
Every trip involves learning, and this one was no exception.
Stay Longer in Freycinet: We rushed our time here and wish we’d allocated an extra day to fully explore the national park and enjoy Coles Bay’s relaxed atmosphere.
Skip Some Wineries: The Tamar Valley wine region was lovely but didn’t engage our children. Time spent here might have been better used elsewhere, perhaps at Penny Royal Adventures in Launceston or exploring Deloraine, a charming town we bypassed.
Book Cradle Mountain Accommodation Closer to Dove Lake: Our cabin was about 20 minutes from the park entrance, which added unnecessary travel time. Paying more for closer accommodation would have given us extra time at the mountain.
Pack More Layers: Even in late spring, mornings and evenings were cold, particularly at altitude. We spent money buying extra warm clothing, which could have been avoided with better packing.
Allow More Time on the West Coast: Strahan and the surrounding area deserved more than two days. The region’s remoteness and beauty warranted slower exploration.
Why Tasmania Works for Families
Tasmania exceeded our expectations as a family destination. The manageable distances between attractions meant less time driving and more time exploring. The diversity of experiences, from beaches to mountains to history, meant everyone found something they loved.
The infrastructure is excellent. Roads are well-maintained, petrol stations are adequately spaced, and facilities are generally clean and accessible. We never felt unsafe or concerned about basic amenities.
Perhaps most importantly, Tasmania felt authentically Australian yet distinctly different. Our children learned about convict history, native wildlife, and environmental conservation while having genuine adventures. They collected shells on deserted beaches, spotted wombats at dusk, and hiked through ancient forests.
Would we return? Absolutely. We’ve already discussed a future trip exploring the northwest coast and islands we missed. Tasmania has claimed a place in our family’s collective heart, and I suspect it will do the same for yours.
The island state combines natural beauty, fascinating history, excellent food, and genuine warmth in a package that’s perfectly sized for families. Pack your patience, prepare for unpredictable weather, and get ready to create memories that will outlast even the most comprehensive photo album.
