Maria Island is a mountainous island national park off Tasmania's east coast, reached by a short boat trip from the mainland. There are no cars, no shops and few crowds, and wildlife is so relaxed that wombats, Forester kangaroos and Cape Barren geese graze beside the walking tracks. The island has two main attractions. Darlington, a former convict probation station and later an Italian-run cement works, preserves old penitentiary buildings in a grassy bay. The Painted Cliffs are sandstone formations patterned by iron and salt into swirling stripes. Beyond them the island offers beaches, fossil cliffs, bays for swimming and the steep climb of Bishop and Clerk, one of Tasmania's most rewarding peaks. It is a favourite for people who want nature without the mainland bustle.
What to do
Most day visitors land at Darlington, explore the old convict buildings and walk to the Painted Cliffs, which are best seen at low tide because the formations sit at the water's edge along the coastline. Darlington has historic buildings to wander through, and wombats are often seen on the lawns near the old settlement, especially at dusk.
Keen walkers can climb Bishop and Clerk or Mount Maria for sweeping views, though that takes a long day and calls for good fitness and weather. Others hire a bicycle on the island and ride the flat track toward the isthmus and beaches, or simply picnic and swim.
Planning
The easiest option is the Maria Island cruise and walk day tour with lunch from Hobart, which is rated 5.0 from 637 reviews. It combines a boat journey with a guided walk and a meal, and it removes the effort of arranging transport to the ferry. The tour details, including pick-up, the route and what is included, should be confirmed when you book.
If you go independently, the passenger ferry runs from Triabunna on the east coast, roughly an hour and a half from Hobart by road, and you should check its season and timetable. Services can be reduced outside the warmer months, and weather can disrupt crossings. A parks pass is needed for entry, so check whether it is included in your ticket.
Fitting it in
This is a full day. Wear sturdy shoes, pack layers, a hat and a swimsuit, and carry water, because the island has limited facilities and no shop. Bring any food you need if you are not on a tour with lunch, and take your rubbish with you. Keep a respectful distance from wildlife and do not feed the animals.
The sea can be rough on the crossing, so those prone to seasickness may wish to prepare. Choose Maria Island over a second mainland day trip if you want solitude, wildlife and a gentle walk with real scenery, and pair it with a night in Hobart or on the east coast rather than rushing the return drive.
Check the weather forecast the day before, because strong winds can delay or cancel boat services, and have a flexible plan for the afternoon in case your trip is moved. If your group includes older children, the Painted Cliffs walk and the lawns at Darlington are enough for a satisfying day without any serious climbing, and the lack of traffic makes the island unusually relaxing for parents.
What to expect
The experience
A guided boat trip and walk on a car-free island national park, with convict-era buildings, coastal cliffs and wildlife encounters.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn gives the calmest crossings and warmest days. Visit the Painted Cliffs at low tide.
How long
A full day, from an early start in Hobart to a late afternoon return.
Tips
Pack layers, sturdy shoes, a hat and water, and confirm what the tour includes, since the island has few facilities.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Nature lovers and history fans who want a quiet island with wildlife and ruins.
- Families
- Children enjoy the wombats and the open lawns at Darlington, but the day is long and the sea can be choppy.
- Couples
- A scenic cruise, an easy walk and lunch make a relaxed day away from the crowds.
- Pair with
- Pair it with a night on the east coast, or with Port Arthur for a convict-history theme.
- Time needed
- A full day from Hobart.
Good questions
Are there cars on Maria Island?+
No, the island is car-free, and visitors explore on foot or by bicycle. Facilities are limited, so bring what you need.
What are the Painted Cliffs?+
They are sandstone formations patterned with swirling stripes by iron and salt. They are best seen at low tide.
Will I see wildlife?+
Yes, wombats, Forester kangaroos and Cape Barren geese are commonly seen near Darlington and along the tracks. Keep a respectful distance.
How do I get there?+
A day tour from Hobart arranges the transport and boat journey. Independent visitors take the passenger ferry from Triabunna, so check the season and timetable.
Do I need a parks pass?+
A parks pass is needed for entry to the national park. Check whether it is included in your tour ticket.
