Discover the Bay of Fires and Binalong Bay

The Bay of Fires is known for its clear blue seas, white sandy beaches and striking orange lichen-covered boulders. It is one of the most idyllic holiday destinations imaginable.

The Bay of Fires coastline stretches for 50 kms from Binalong Bay in the south to Eddystone Point in the north. Take the Great Eastern Drive to St Helens, and then follow the signs to reach this beautiful part of east coast Tasmania. Factor in some time to explore the white-sand beaches and turquoise seas between Ansons Bay and Eddystone Point at the northern part of the region. Alternatively, discover the many southern Bay of Fires beaches like The Gardens, Jeanneret, Swimcart and Cosy Corner.

Orange and turquoise?
It must be Bay of Fires!

You can explore the Bay of Fires from your base in St Helens or Binalong Bay, choose a campsite with a truly incredible view, or, treat yourself to a luxury eco-lodge. Consider the award-winning Bay of Fires Walk, or the wukalina walk, a 4-day guided walk based around the magnificent landscape of larapuna (Bay of Fires) and wukalina (Mt William).

Recommendations

• Nature experiences: Enjoy a Bay of Fires sunrise and swim in a mermaid pool.
• Tour operators: Bay of Fires Walk, wukalina walk, St Helens Mountain Bike Trails
• Attractions: Christie Lange Art Studio
• Accommodation: Bay of Fires Bush Retreat, Sabi Stays, Sloop Cottage
• Food and beverage: The Hub, Lease 65 Oysters, Salty Picnic Co., Priory Ridge Estate
• Events and festivals: Bay of Fires Winter Arts Festival

#bayoffires #binnalongbay

Suggested 2-day itinerary

Day 1

Morning

Start your day with a stroll along the pristine Binalong Bay beach, where crystal-clear waters meet striking orange lichen-covered rock formations. After soaking in the surroundings, continue your adventure with a visit to Lease 65 Oysters. Here, you can indulge in the freshest oysters, plucked straight from the waters in front of you.

For lunch, treat yourself to a gourmet picnic experience curated by Salty Picnic Co., who can set up a luxe spread at the secluded Sloop Reef. Afterward, take a refreshing dip in the enchanting Mermaid Pool, a near-perfectly round, 3-metre-deep rockpool naturally carved into the granite boulders.

Next, continue your day by exploring the vibrant marine life under the surface. Pack your snorkelling gear and head to ‘The Gardens’ – one of the many beautiful beaches that make up this region. This is your chance to explore vibrant sea gardens teeming with unique seaweeds. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a weedy sea dragon, southern rock lobster, or black lip abalone. In addition to snorkelling, take some time to relax and enjoy some time on the beach.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, set out on a boat tour with Bay of Fires Eco Tours, departing conveniently from Binalong Bay. Along the way, you’ll encounter thriving seal colonies, a variety of seabirds, and, if the season is right (May to December), playful dolphins or majestic whales. Meanwhile, your guide will enrich the experience by sharing fascinating stories of Binalong Bay’s history and the Bay of Fires, including its name, inspired by the fires of the Palawa (Tasmanian Aboriginal) people.

Evening

As the day winds down, retreat to the tranquil Bay of Fires Bush Retreat. Here, luxury bell tents nestled in serene bushland offer an ideal hideaway. You can prepare a meal in the 5-star camp kitchen using produce from the onsite garden or savor chef-prepared delights from the menu. Finally, relax by the campfire under a sky full of stars.

Alternatively, opt for a quiet evening at Sabi Stays in Binalong Bay. Inspired by the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, this retreat features a master suite with a deep Japanese-style bathtub (furo) and rustic, organic textures that encourage rest and relaxation.

Day 2

Morning

Wake up to the calls of kookaburras and enjoy a hearty home-cooked breakfast. For adventure seekers, the St Helens Mountain Bike Trails is a must-try. This world-class trail offers stunning views of mountain ranges and coastline. Starting high in the sub-alpine terrain of the Blue Tier, the route offers breathtaking vistas before culminating at the pristine white sands of Swimcart Beach. With quality bike rentals and transfers available through Vertigo MTB or Gravity Isle, your adventure will be seamless.

Meanwhile, if you prefer a slower-paced morning, visit Christie Lange Art Studio. Here, you can unleash your creativity by crafting pottery inspired by the vibrant colors of the Bay of Fires.

Afternoon

For lunch, dine at The Hub in Binalong Bay, boasting what may be the best ocean view in the country. Afterward, take a relaxed walk through the quaint streets, where retro beach shacks stand alongside striking examples of modern coastal architecture.

Finally, spend the afternoon rock-hopping and exploring colorful rock pools along the shore. Before you leave, capture the magic of Binalong Bay one last time at the lookout, creating a cherished memory with a photo.