Trail Fast Facts

Wineglass Bay is a 7km, grade 3 return hike in Freycinet National Park, Tasmania. This hike typically takes 3 hours to complete.

Length: 7km

Duration: 3 hrs

Grade 3 (Moderate)

Style: Return

Start: Wineglass Bay Carpark

End: Wineglass Bay Carpark

Location: Freycinet National Park

State: Tasmania

Nearby town: Coles Bay

From state capital: 197km

Latitude: -42.14580193335943

Longitude: 148.2892191410065

Overview

Map and GPX file

Directions

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Hike Overview

Wineglass Bay is a 7km, grade 3 return hike located in Freycinet National Park, Tasmania. The hike typically takes around 3 hours to complete.

The trail offers an opportunity to experience the pristine beauty of Wineglass Bay Beach, where you can enjoy the turquoise waters and walk along the sparkling white sand. The track leads to the Wineglass Bay Lookout, which provides one of Tasmania’s most renowned views. From the saddle, you will descend approximately 1000 stairs to reach the beach. An additional 20-minute walk along the sand to the southern end of the beach reveals magnificent views back towards the Hazards.

Spending time on this stunning beach is well worth the effort, and during the migratory season, you may spot whales and dolphins in the bay. However, the walk to Wineglass Bay Beach is demanding and may not be suitable for everyone. Those who are less fit should allow extra time and take regular rest stops, which also offer perfect moments to appreciate the surrounding scenery.

Although the hike is moderately challenging, returning via the same track is the shortest and most straightforward option. Be aware that there are no facilities along the trail, except for a toilet available at the carpark.

Track Grade

Grade 3 (Moderate) - Walks for Most Fitness Levels: Grade 3 on the AWTGS represents moderate walking tracks. These are ideal for walkers with some fitness who are comfortable with some hills and uneven terrain. While suitable for most ages, some bushwalking experience is recommended to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Tracks may have short, steep hill sections, a rough surface, and many steps. The total distance of a Grade 3 walk can be up to 20 kilometers.

Tips

A park entry fee is required.
Toilets are available at the car park, with picnic facilities located nearby.
The trail includes a steep uphill climb of 1.3km with rough bush steps.
Supervise children carefully, as there are hazardous cliffs. Stay within designated barriers; the steep track is not recommended for individuals with health concerns or limited mobility.
Pets, firearms, and bicycles are prohibited in the park.

Map and GPX file

Wineglass Bay Hike (7km)

Total distance: 7095 m
Max elevation: 204 m
Min elevation: 5 m
Total climbing: 436 m
Total descent: -436 m

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Trailhead

Getting there

Wineglass Bay Hike (7km)

Freycinet National Park is accessible by a 2.5 to 3-hour drive from either Launceston or Hobart. To reach the park, take the Tasman Highway (A3) and turn onto Coles Bay Road (C302), located 12km south of Bicheno. Follow Coles Bay Road for 28km on a sealed road, passing through the Coles Bay township to arrive at the main park entrance and Freycinet Visitor Centre. The trailhead for the Peninsula Circuit walk is situated about 4 kilometres further into the park from the Visitor Centre, near Coles Bay. For those travelling by public transport or guided tours, the park is also accessible through these options. It's important to avoid driving in the park at night to protect native wildlife, so take it slow and be vigilant for animals on the road.

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About the region

Freycinet National Park, located on Tasmania’s east coast, is a renowned coastal destination featuring a diverse and stunning landscape. The park, which occupies most of the Freycinet Peninsula, is famous for its dramatic pink granite peaks, secluded bays, pristine white sandy beaches, and rich wildlife. It offers a range of activities, from walking trails that lead to scenic bays and beaches to opportunities for swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking in its inviting waters.

The park’s main area covers the southern tip of the Freycinet Peninsula and extends along its east coast, encompassing the Friendly Beaches and stretching almost to the coastal town of Bicheno. Freycinet, along with Mount Field, holds the distinction of being one of Tasmania’s oldest national parks.

Wineglass Bay, the park’s most iconic feature, is a perfect crescent of white sand nestled beneath the Hazards mountains. This beach is one of Tasmania’s most celebrated natural attractions, drawing visitors from around the world. The Hazards, a striking line of granite peaks, form a dramatic barrier across the park, with the Wineglass Bay Lookout offering breathtaking views from one of the passes.

The Friendly Beaches, lining the peninsula’s east coast, present a stunning contrast of white sand and blue sea, while Cape Tourville, topped with a lighthouse and ringed by a boardwalk, offers glimpses into Wineglass Bay and opportunities to spot marine life, including whales.

Freycinet National Park’s appeal lies not only in the beauty of Wineglass Bay but also in the variety of its coastal landscapes. The park’s terrain ranges from rocky coves and surging surf to sheltered bays and serene beaches, all set against the backdrop of the Hazards’ granite peaks. Despite its popularity, the park still offers moments of solitude and a wide range of experiences.

The park, jutting out into the sea, is home to a rich array of plants and animals, protected within the rugged and beautiful Freycinet Peninsula. The scenic beauty and diverse activities available make it a popular destination for visitors, especially during the summer months. Whether you choose to walk to the pass overlooking Wineglass Bay, undertake the three-day trek across the Freycinet Peninsula, kayak to secluded beaches, or enjoy more leisurely pursuits like beach strolls, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, or wildlife spotting, Freycinet offers something for everyone.

Similar trails nearby

Looking for things to do in Freycinet National Park? Try these hikes or bushwalks.

Explore Safe

While planning your hike, it’s important to check official government sources for updated information, temporary closures and trail access requirements. Before hitting the trail, check local weather and bushfire advice for planned burns and bushfire warnings and let someone know before you go. Plan ahead and hike safely.

Let someone know

Adventure with peace of mind: Fill out your trip intentions form. Before you hit the trail, fill out an online form to privately send important details about your hike to your family or friends. If you don’t return on time, they can easily alert emergency services, preventing worry and ensuring a swift response. Hike with peace of mind and enjoy your outdoor adventure to the fullest. Be smart, be safe: Register your plans here.

Gear to consider

What you carry in your pack will depend on the weather, terrain, time of year, type of adventure, and personal preferences. Having trouble deciding what gear’s right for you? My free planning, food and packing checklists provide an introduction to things your could consider (as well as the Ten Essentials) on your day, overnight and multi-day adventures. Customise your kit according to your personal needs, always considering safety first.

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Wineglass Bay Hike (7km)

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