Planning a family road trip through Tasmania can feel overwhelming with so many must-see destinations. From wombats on Maria Island to the fiery orange rocks of the Bay of Fires, it’s hard to know where to start. This 10-day Tasmania itinerary gives you the best of the east coast plus the rugged Tasman Peninsula, blending history, wildlife, beaches, and adventure into one epic trip.
Whether you’re travelling in a motorhome, campervan, or rental car, this route keeps drives manageable and stops exciting for kids and adults alike.
Tasmania itinerary: 10 days East Coast & Tasman Peninsula
Day 1 – Hobart to the Tasman Peninsula
Arrive in Hobart, collect your hire car or motorhome, and stock up on supplies. Drive about 1 hour and 25 minutes (96km via the Arthur Highway) to the Tasman Peninsula.
Stay at Port Arthur Holiday Park, where kids can burn energy at the playground. You’ll enjoy clean facilities, and friendly pademelons will hop by your cabin or campsite each morning and evening.
Day 2 – Hiking or Relaxing on the Tasman Peninsula
Active families will love the challenge of the Cape Hauy Track on this 10-day Tasmania itinerary, a spectacular hike with sweeping coastal views. Teens will handle it, but it’s not suitable for little ones unless you’ve got the stamina to carry them in a hiking carrier.
If hiking isn’t your style, spend time at Fortescue Bay, where the beach is framed by bushland, or explore the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo and Port Arthur Lavender Farm for gentler adventures.
Day 3 – History and natural wonders
In the morning, choose between the Port Arthur Historic Site (allow several hours) or the Coal Mines Historic Site, which is free and easier with younger children. Both are fascinating insights into Tasmania’s convict past.
Afterwards, explore the peninsula’s dramatic natural attractions: the Tessellated Pavement (best at low tide), Remarkable Cave, Tasman Arch, Devil’s Kitchen and the Blow Hole. If you can time it, sunset at the Tessellated Pavement is an unforgettable experience on this 10-day Tasmania itinerary.
Day 4 – Tasman Peninsula to Freycinet Peninsula
Head north along the Great Eastern Drive (around 3 hours). Stop at Kelvedon Beach or Kate’s Berry Farm for a stretch and snack.
Base yourself in Coles Bay, the gateway to Freycinet National Park. Stay at Big4 Iluka on Freycinet for a caravan park option, or splash out on a boutique lodge. In the afternoon, take the short boardwalk to Cape Tourville Lighthouse for stunning coastal views and free public binoculars.
Day 5 – Freycinet National Park + Bicheno
Beat the tour buses and walk to the Wineglass Bay Lookout early in the day. The uphill track isn’t the most entertaining for young kids, but the panoramic views are spectacular.
Afterwards, enjoy a picnic at Honeymoon Bay before driving just 30 minutes to Bicheno. This small town has big appeal – from the Bicheno Blowhole to its evening penguin tours. Accommodation ranges from holiday parks to beachfront cottages.
Day 6 – Douglas Apsley National Park + Bicheno
In the morning, drive to Douglas Apsley National Park. The short trail to the Apsley River Waterhole is perfect for families, while the Apsley Gorge Track offers a longer adventure.
Return to Bicheno to explore more of this coastal gem – visit the Motorcycle Museum, relax on the beach, or grab fresh fish and chips while the kids wait for penguin spotting.
Day 7 – Bicheno to Bay of Fires
Pack up and head north to St Helens or Binalong Bay (about 1 hour). Accommodation here ranges from holiday parks to boutique stays overlooking the turquoise waters.
Spend the afternoon at Binalong Bay, where kids can climb the granite boulders while you soak up the contrast of white sand and orange lichen against the ocean.
Day 8 – Bay of Fires Exploration
Dedicate the whole day to the Bay of Fires on this 10-day Tasmania itinerary. Drive along The Gardens Road, stopping wherever the views grab your attention – and they will often.
The coastline is pristine and less crowded than other Tasmanian highlights. Families can swim, snorkel, or kayak in summer, or simply enjoy the drama of the waves crashing against the rocks in cooler months.
Day 9 – Bay of Fires to Hobart (Inland Route)
Make the 5-hour journey back to Hobart, but break it up with some classic Tasmanian stops:
- Pyengana Dairy Company for cheese tasting.
- St Columba Falls, one of Tasmania’s tallest waterfalls.
- Derby, a quirky town known for its world-class mountain bike trails.
Arrive in Hobart for your final night.
Day 10 – Hobart & departure
Spend your last day exploring Hobart. Browse Salamanca Market (Saturdays) or Farm Gate Market (Sundays), wander the waterfront, or head up Mount Wellington/Kunanyi for city views.
If travelling with teens, consider a trip to the MONA Museum, which always sparks conversation. Then it’s time to head to the airport and say farewell to Tasmania.
This 10-day Tasmania itinerary blends history, nature, and plenty of family-friendly fun. From penguins in Bicheno to convict tales in Port Arthur and the picture-perfect beaches of the Bay of Fires, Tasmania’s east coast offers something for everyone.
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