Top Wineglass Bay On-Water Experiences - Australian Cruise Group

Overview

Imagine a pristine beach, its sands gently curving like the delicate stem of a wine glass, kissed by the sapphire-blue waters of the ocean – welcome to Wineglass Bay. Often called one of the top ten beaches in the world, this bucket list-worthy destination is located within the Freycinet National Park, on the east coast of Tasmania.

From unwinding on the beach and taking in the vast expanse of the ocean to hiking to world-famous lookouts, there are plenty of things to do in Wineglass Bay. As it is located within the Freycinet National Park, which is an outcrop of ecosystem, you can meet various wildlife species, including wallabies, kangaroos, and a variety of bird species.

Top Wineglass Bay activities include hiking, rock climbing, kayaking, camping and snorkeling. If you want to enjoy the rugged coastline, offshore islands, hidden coves and other wonders of the Freycinet Peninsula from the waters, you can join a cruise that offers different perspectives of the region’s remarkable scenery.

The history of Wineglass Bay dates back to over 30,000 years, when the Pydairrerme people of the Oyster Bay tribe made the Freycinet Peninsula their home, relying on the resources of the land in the vicinity of the bay for their sustenance. It is said that some of the hiking tracks are pathways walked by these original inhabitants of the land.

When planning a visit to Wineglass Bay, it's crucial to consider factors such as weather, seasonal variations, and park regulations to ensure you have an enjoyable and responsible experience.

Wineglass Bay Cruise Experiences

Wineglass Bay Cruises

4 Cruises

From $120

Know Before You Go

Transport

The recommended and most common way to get to Wineglass Bay is to drive to the Freycinet National Park and then walk to the beach. Water taxi facilities are also available from Coles Bay to the beach.Tassilink Transit Bus services are offered from Hobart to a stop near the park, and not the park entrance.

To enter the Freycinet National Park, you must have an entry pass.

Wineglass Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula are known for their fresh, locally sourced cuisine. Visitors can enjoy Tasmanian seafood like oysters, mussels, and abalone, along with seasonal produce, artisan cheeses, and regional wines. From casual seaside cafés to fine-dining restaurants, most menus focus on simple, fresh flavours that highlight the best of Tasmania’s east coast.

Although Wineglass Bay does not have any accommodations on the bay, the nearby Freycinet National Park offers a range of accommodations, from cottages and beach chalets to high-end luxury lodges.

Another alternative would be to stay on the mainland and catch a cruise or drive down to Wineglass Bay.

Australia-wide holidays:
1 Jan (Thu) – New Year’s Day
26 Jan (Mon) – Australia Day
3 Apr (Fri) – Good Friday
6 Apr (Mon) – Easter Monday
25 Apr (Sat) – Anzac Day
8 Jun (Mon) – King’s Birthday
25 Dec (Fri) – Christmas Day
26 Dec (Sat) – Boxing Day
28 Dec (Mon) – Boxing Day Holiday

Tasmanian observed holidays
9 Feb (Mon) – Royal Hobart Regatta
9 Mar (Mon) – Eight Hours Day
7 Apr (Tue) – Easter Tuesday *
2 Nov (Mon) – Recreation Day

Regional observed holidays
7 Jan (Wed) – Devonport Cup
25 Feb (Wed) – Launceston Cup
3 Mar (Tue) – King Island Show
8 May (Fri) – AGFEST
2 Oct (Fri) – Burnie Show
8 Oct (Thu) – Royal Launceston Show
16 Oct (Fri) – Flinders Island Show
22 Oct (Thu) – Royal Hobart Show
27 Nov (Fri) – Devonport Show

*Easter Tuesday is a restricted public holiday in Tasmania. Observed by some awards/agreements and the State Public Service.

The best time to visit Wineglass Bay is during the summer months of December to February, for beach activities and it offers good weather for hiking as well.

TASMANIA SCHOOL HOLIDAYS 2026

Term 1: 18 April to 3 May
Term 2: 11 July to 26 July
Term 3: 3 October to 18 October
Term 4: 19 December - (end date not confirmed)

Wineglass Bay Tourist Information

The nearest emergency and hospital services are St Helens District Hospital and the Spring Bay Community & Health Centre.
Call 000 immediately for emergencies requiring police, fire, or ambulance services.