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BeachesBoat Harbour Beach
One of Tasmania’s most beautiful beaches, Boat Harbour Beach is perfect for swimming, sandcastle‑building, and picnics. Its crystal‑clear water and white sand make it a must‑visit for families looking for a relaxed beach day. Just a 10-minute drive (15km) east of Old School Rocky Cape. The area has two small population centres – the town, high above sea-level, and the small beach community below, nestled between rocky headlands. The beach is what it's all about, with family-friendly waves, rock pools to explore, pacific gulls and clean white sand. From the winding road that descends to the water, the views of the harbour are captivating. Keep an eye out for dolphins, seals and whales that occasionally enter the bay area. Boat Harbour was voted one of Australia's top ten beaches. Sisters Beach is a place where you can immerse yourself in the natural environment. Enjoy swimming and playing on the unspoiled beaches, explore the local walking tracks in the Rocky Cape National Park or just relax and watch the waves roll in. Toilet and BBQ facilities are also available for public use at the end of East Boulevard. Both beaches only 10 minutes' drive from Rocky Cape. |
For Couples: Romance, Scenery & Slow‑Paced Escapes
Coastal Drives & Secluded Beaches
The North West Coast is known for its dramatic scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Couples can enjoy scenic drives, quiet beaches, and intimate picnic spots where the only sound is the ocean.
Historic Villages & Boutique Shopping
Wander hand‑in‑hand through the charming streets of Stanley, browse local boutiques, and enjoy a long lunch overlooking the water. The slower pace of the region is perfect for reconnecting and unwinding together.
Cradle to Coast Tasting Trail
Food‑loving couples will adore the Tasting Trail, featuring more than 50 local producers offering cheese, chocolate, berries, cider, spirits, and more. It’s a delicious way to spend a day exploring the region at your own pace.
Sheffield’s Artistic Charm
For a quieter, more creative outing, Sheffield’s murals and artisan shops offer a romantic, slow‑paced day of wandering and discovering local stories together.
Nature & Stargazing
North West Tasmania’s clear skies and low light pollution make it ideal for stargazing. After a day of exploring, couples can enjoy a peaceful evening under the stars - one of the region’s most magical experiences.
Food & Dining
Families and couples staying in Rocky Cape will find a handful of welcoming, down‑to‑earth dining spots perfect for relaxed meals together. Lanigan’s, a family‑owned venue nestled at the foothills of Rocky Cape National Park, offers high‑quality local food and wine with stunning views across Bass Strait - an ideal setting for a romantic lunch or a family meal with space for kids to explore. For hearty classics in a casual atmosphere, The "Tav" at Rocky Cape serves favourites like lasagne and chicken parmigiana, making it a great choice for families looking for comfort food after a day of adventuring.
If you’re after something quick and convenient, Rocky Cape Roadhouse provides simple meals and snacks - handy for families on the go or couples heading out for a day trip. Just a short drive away, the Thistle Hut in Boat Harbour offers another cosy option with great reviews, perfect for a relaxed brunch or lunch by the coast.
Dining in Stanley – A Delicious Coastal Experience Near Rocky Cape
Just a short and scenic drive from Rocky Cape, the charming seaside village of Stanley offers some of the North West Coast’s best dining experiences. Whether you’re travelling as a family or enjoying a romantic getaway, Stanley’s food scene is all about fresh local produce, friendly hospitality, and beautiful coastal views.
Fresh Seafood & Local Flavours
Stanley is famous for its seafood, and Hursey Seafoods is one of the town’s most popular spots, serving lobster, fish, and classic Tasmanian dishes with harbour views.
Relaxed Pub Dining
The Stanley Hotel Bistro is a favourite among visitors and locals alike, offering hearty meals, Tasmanian seafood, Cape Grim beef, and seasonal produce in a warm, welcoming setting. Open daily from 12 pm to 8 pm, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner after exploring The Nut.
Wine, Pizza & Casual Eats
For couples looking for a cosy evening out, the Stanley Wine Bar offers great pizzas, a curated wine list, and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
Families will also find plenty of easy-going cafés and takeaway options throughout the village, ideal for relaxed meals between sightseeing adventures.
Whether you’re sharing a romantic meal with a view or grabbing an easy bite with the kids, the Rocky Cape area offers friendly, local dining that suits every kind of traveller.
If you’re after something quick and convenient, Rocky Cape Roadhouse provides simple meals and snacks - handy for families on the go or couples heading out for a day trip. Just a short drive away, the Thistle Hut in Boat Harbour offers another cosy option with great reviews, perfect for a relaxed brunch or lunch by the coast.
Dining in Stanley – A Delicious Coastal Experience Near Rocky Cape
Just a short and scenic drive from Rocky Cape, the charming seaside village of Stanley offers some of the North West Coast’s best dining experiences. Whether you’re travelling as a family or enjoying a romantic getaway, Stanley’s food scene is all about fresh local produce, friendly hospitality, and beautiful coastal views.
Fresh Seafood & Local Flavours
Stanley is famous for its seafood, and Hursey Seafoods is one of the town’s most popular spots, serving lobster, fish, and classic Tasmanian dishes with harbour views.
Relaxed Pub Dining
The Stanley Hotel Bistro is a favourite among visitors and locals alike, offering hearty meals, Tasmanian seafood, Cape Grim beef, and seasonal produce in a warm, welcoming setting. Open daily from 12 pm to 8 pm, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner after exploring The Nut.
Wine, Pizza & Casual Eats
For couples looking for a cosy evening out, the Stanley Wine Bar offers great pizzas, a curated wine list, and a quirky, intimate atmosphere.
Families will also find plenty of easy-going cafés and takeaway options throughout the village, ideal for relaxed meals between sightseeing adventures.
Whether you’re sharing a romantic meal with a view or grabbing an easy bite with the kids, the Rocky Cape area offers friendly, local dining that suits every kind of traveller.
Hugo’s Brew & Chew in Smithton is a delightful spot to enjoy a cozy meal or a cup of coffee. Here are some details about this charming cafe. Hugo’s Brew & Chew offers a warm and inviting atmosphere, perfect for catching up with friends or simply relaxing. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a tasty lunch, or a freshly brewed coffee, this licensed café has you covered. Don’t miss out on their delicious offerings!
Bookings are essential. Don't be disappointed and book your table in advance.
The Wharf Hotel Restaurant specialises in procuring only the finest Tasmanian Ingredients to bring you a unique dining experience in Wynyard on the North West Coast of Tasmania. Premium Grade Steaks, locally sourced Seafood; and introducing Traditional Stone Baked Italian Style Pizza's, all separate The Wharf Hotel from the competition. Paired with an extensive selection of the Finest Tasmanian Wine's, Ale's & Ciders, you'll be sure to find something for everyone at The Wharf Hotel. And don't forget our Self Serve Frosty Boy Dessert Bar; Perfect for the sweetest tooth!
Bookings are essential. Don't be disappointed and book your table in advance.
The Wharf Hotel Restaurant specialises in procuring only the finest Tasmanian Ingredients to bring you a unique dining experience in Wynyard on the North West Coast of Tasmania. Premium Grade Steaks, locally sourced Seafood; and introducing Traditional Stone Baked Italian Style Pizza's, all separate The Wharf Hotel from the competition. Paired with an extensive selection of the Finest Tasmanian Wine's, Ale's & Ciders, you'll be sure to find something for everyone at The Wharf Hotel. And don't forget our Self Serve Frosty Boy Dessert Bar; Perfect for the sweetest tooth!
R E C O M M E N D A T I O N S
Summer Destinations - Within 30 minutes Rocky Cape
Stanley Seal Cruises
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Penguins of Burnie & Stanley
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Dip Falls
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For Families: Fun, Nature & Hands‑On Experiences
Burnie – City of Makers
In Burnie, kids and adults can enjoy hands‑on experiences with local artisans. Known as the City of Makers, Burnie offers creative workshops, galleries, and a vibrant food scene - great for curious young minds and parents alike.
Burnie is also home to a colony of little penguins. These penguins are also known as blue penguins (NZ) or fairy penguins (AUS). They are the smallest species of penguins, standing at just 30cm tall. You can visit "Little Penguin Observation Centre" in Burnie to see these cute creatures. The habitat for this colony of penguins is being expanded as part of a University of Tasmania campus move.
Burnie – City of Makers
In Burnie, kids and adults can enjoy hands‑on experiences with local artisans. Known as the City of Makers, Burnie offers creative workshops, galleries, and a vibrant food scene - great for curious young minds and parents alike.
Burnie is also home to a colony of little penguins. These penguins are also known as blue penguins (NZ) or fairy penguins (AUS). They are the smallest species of penguins, standing at just 30cm tall. You can visit "Little Penguin Observation Centre" in Burnie to see these cute creatures. The habitat for this colony of penguins is being expanded as part of a University of Tasmania campus move.
Stanley & The Nut
A favourite for all ages, the historic town of Stanley offers a relaxed day of exploring heritage buildings, quirky shops, and delicious cafés. Families love taking the chairlift or walking up The Nut, a dramatic volcanic formation with sweeping coastal views.
The Nut Reserve Stanley. You start the trail up to the top of the Nut via a very steep paved pathway. Fortunately, there’s a handrail to assist the climb but nevertheless it’s a steep walk for 10-15 minutes. Take in the views on the way up whenever you can but when you reach the top you’re in for some spectacular views. The circuit track takes about 45 minutes to go around with various lookouts along the way. Parts of the track go through shaded trees areas where you’ll see little wallabies hopping around. Overall, a very fun place to visit. For those not so fit or with young children, there’s a chairlift ($12 one way, $19 up and down) however sometimes it is out of order due to maintenance so maybe check if you’re requiring the need.
Godfrey's Beach Penguin Viewing (Stanley). An excellent viewing platform situated at the eastern end of Godfrey's Beach below Stanley Cemetery & the Nut.
The timber viewing area consists of an elevated timber path with railings either side, that stretches for over 50 metres. Along the path are a number of viewing platforms with information boards on each.
The penguins are most likely to come ashore to be in their burrows between August and March. It is during these shore excursions that they prepare their burrows, lay eggs, feed and raise their chicks, moult and grow new feathers
A favourite for all ages, the historic town of Stanley offers a relaxed day of exploring heritage buildings, quirky shops, and delicious cafés. Families love taking the chairlift or walking up The Nut, a dramatic volcanic formation with sweeping coastal views.
The Nut Reserve Stanley. You start the trail up to the top of the Nut via a very steep paved pathway. Fortunately, there’s a handrail to assist the climb but nevertheless it’s a steep walk for 10-15 minutes. Take in the views on the way up whenever you can but when you reach the top you’re in for some spectacular views. The circuit track takes about 45 minutes to go around with various lookouts along the way. Parts of the track go through shaded trees areas where you’ll see little wallabies hopping around. Overall, a very fun place to visit. For those not so fit or with young children, there’s a chairlift ($12 one way, $19 up and down) however sometimes it is out of order due to maintenance so maybe check if you’re requiring the need.
Godfrey's Beach Penguin Viewing (Stanley). An excellent viewing platform situated at the eastern end of Godfrey's Beach below Stanley Cemetery & the Nut.
The timber viewing area consists of an elevated timber path with railings either side, that stretches for over 50 metres. Along the path are a number of viewing platforms with information boards on each.
The penguins are most likely to come ashore to be in their burrows between August and March. It is during these shore excursions that they prepare their burrows, lay eggs, feed and raise their chicks, moult and grow new feathers
Stanley Seal Cruises is a popular tourist attraction in Tasmania that offers 75-minute tours from Stanley wharf to Bull Rock where a colony of up to 500 Australian Fur Seals live. Bull Rock is not classed as a breeding ground, which means the 40 ft. motor cruiser "Sylvia C" can approach to within 100m. The 70-minute return cruise takes you just one kilometre offshore to Bull Rock where you can see anywhere from 50 to 500 seals - bulls, females and juveniles. Bull Rock is also popular with the black-faced cormorant, oystercatchers and Pacific gulls, and sometimes bottle-nose dolphins.
Dip Falls Forest Reserve it's easy to overlook, but Dip Falls is one of the most beautiful in the state. It's two-tiered structure and unique rock formations make it well worth a visit. From the parking area next to the falls in the Dip Falls Reserve, it's a short walk to a platform with an unsurpassed view out over the top of the falls. Another path leads down some steps to the base of the falls and its unique rock formations. Like other waterfalls, Dip Falls is at its most impressive after rain and is best viewed in winter. From the car park you can also walk 5 min to the Big Tree in the Big Tree Reserve. The circumference of the tree at its base is nearly 17 m and definitely worth a look if you're here. Dip Falls is between Rocky Cape and Stanley in Tasmania's Northwest, 27 km up a quiet and mostly sealed road that passes through pleasant countryside. Both the falls and Big Tree Reserve are suitable for disabled access. BBQ facilities and toilets are provided.
Rocky Cape Lighthouse
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Kayaking, Snorkeling & Diving
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Doone Falls
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See the views from Rocky Cape Lighthouse
Lighthouses around the world are often found on some of the most stunning headlands, and at Rocky Cape Lighthouse the views are second to none!
Access is super easy. Just take Rocky Cape Road right until the very end, where you can park your car and follow the short trail through the scrub by foot.
For the lighthouse aficionados out there, Rocky Cape Lighthouse was built in 1968 and uses a Chance Brothers 400mm catadioptric lens, flashing once every 10 seconds. Who knew?
Kayaking, snorkelling, and diving.
Bass Strait is notorious for its heavy seas, but in reality, it only gets rough when the occasional westerly weather system trundles through. The rest of the time the waters are completely sheltered by mainland Tasmania and on a good day the conditions can be as still as a pond – perfect for kayaking, snorkelling, and diving.
There are many little coves and bays dotted along the coast between Mary Ann Cove and Sisters Beach that can only be reached by kayak or boat. Snorkelers will enjoy launching themselves from Burgess Cove or Sisters Beach for an underwater adventure, and divers can go in search of one of the many shipwrecks in the area or explore the reef system off Rocky Cape Point.
Doone Falls (3 hours – Medium) – The walk to Doone Falls is a great leg-stretcher. Rocky Cape has very little fresh water, but Doone Creek is one of the exceptions. Flows are minimal for much of the year but get there after heavy rains and you’ll be treated to a torrent leaping its way down the rocks to the forest below. This walk starts at the big ‘Information’ sign, opposite the large car parking area before you get to the Sisters Beach boat ramp.
Detention Falls Conservation Area: Although not part of Rocky Cape National Park, they are a short drive from the eastern end of the park. 9 kilometres south of Sisters Creek through the rich green pastures of the Northwest are the superb Detention Falls. Turn left towards Meuna then right at Hawleys Road. Only a short 10-minute walk takes you to a well-constructed viewing platform.The track has recently been upgraded making in one of Tasmania's great short walks. The adventurous can venture down to the valley floor. The tannin in the water gives the water a pink hue.
Lighthouses around the world are often found on some of the most stunning headlands, and at Rocky Cape Lighthouse the views are second to none!
Access is super easy. Just take Rocky Cape Road right until the very end, where you can park your car and follow the short trail through the scrub by foot.
For the lighthouse aficionados out there, Rocky Cape Lighthouse was built in 1968 and uses a Chance Brothers 400mm catadioptric lens, flashing once every 10 seconds. Who knew?
Kayaking, snorkelling, and diving.
Bass Strait is notorious for its heavy seas, but in reality, it only gets rough when the occasional westerly weather system trundles through. The rest of the time the waters are completely sheltered by mainland Tasmania and on a good day the conditions can be as still as a pond – perfect for kayaking, snorkelling, and diving.
There are many little coves and bays dotted along the coast between Mary Ann Cove and Sisters Beach that can only be reached by kayak or boat. Snorkelers will enjoy launching themselves from Burgess Cove or Sisters Beach for an underwater adventure, and divers can go in search of one of the many shipwrecks in the area or explore the reef system off Rocky Cape Point.
Doone Falls (3 hours – Medium) – The walk to Doone Falls is a great leg-stretcher. Rocky Cape has very little fresh water, but Doone Creek is one of the exceptions. Flows are minimal for much of the year but get there after heavy rains and you’ll be treated to a torrent leaping its way down the rocks to the forest below. This walk starts at the big ‘Information’ sign, opposite the large car parking area before you get to the Sisters Beach boat ramp.
Detention Falls Conservation Area: Although not part of Rocky Cape National Park, they are a short drive from the eastern end of the park. 9 kilometres south of Sisters Creek through the rich green pastures of the Northwest are the superb Detention Falls. Turn left towards Meuna then right at Hawleys Road. Only a short 10-minute walk takes you to a well-constructed viewing platform.The track has recently been upgraded making in one of Tasmania's great short walks. The adventurous can venture down to the valley floor. The tannin in the water gives the water a pink hue.
Wynyard Tulip Festival
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Blue Hills Honey
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Marrawah
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The Wynyard Tulip Festival is a spectacular day of festivities held on the second Saturday of October each year at 11am – 9pm at Gutteridge Gardens, Wynyard. The festival celebrates the breath-taking tulips in full bloom at the Table Cape Tulip Farm, as well as all that makes Waratah-Wynyard idyllic and unique. It also attracts some exciting entertainment and attractions from across the state and further afield! Entry is FREE.
Blue Hills Honey is located in the small district of Mawbanna, only 25 minutes from Rocky Cape. There Honey is produced by placing near 2000 beehives deep in the heart of the ancient and primitive Tarkine rainforests. The wild rainforests of Tasmania are the only place in the world where the rare Leatherwood tree Eucryphia Lucida grows. Other varieties include Tasmanian Manuka, Blackberry and Meadow. Blue Hills Honey exports to many countries. Visit their farm shop, cafe, interpretation centre, process viewing and orchard with playground and experience the varieties of honey available from their Tarkine Apiaries and an Australian Mead selection.
Explore North West Tasmania
– Perfect Day Trips from Rocky Cape for Families & Couples
– Perfect Day Trips from Rocky Cape for Families & Couples
The Edge of the World
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Cradle Mountain
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Sheffield a Town of Murals
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North West Tasmania is a region where rugged coastlines, peaceful countryside, and charming small towns come together to create unforgettable adventures. From pristine beaches to historic villages and world‑class natural wonders, everything is within easy reach when you’re staying in Rocky Cape. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a romantic day together, this part of Tasmania offers something special for every kind of traveller.
Why North West Tasmania Is Perfect for Day Trips from Rocky Cape
- Easy drives with beautiful scenery along the way
- A mix of nature, history, food, and culture to suit all interests
- Family‑friendly attractions that are fun, safe, and educational
- Romantic destinations ideal for couples seeking peace and connection
- A slower pace that encourages relaxation and quality time together
Marrawah is 100km West of Rocky Cape, via Smithton and is Tasmania's westernmost community and the furthest settlement from Hobart. Marrawah is the most popular surfing spot in Tasmania’s north. Marrawah is accessed from Tasmania's north west region. Marrawah's three beaches - Ann Bay, Mawson Bay and Green Point - have hundred-metre-long rides when the swell is westerly and the wind offshore. The record wave in this area was measured at almost 20 metres with wind and surf rolling in uninterrupted for almost 17,000 kilometres.
Marrawah is the venue for the National Wave Sailing Championships; a highly sought after title worth $22,000 and held over 5-days in February that combines wind and wave skills to attract competitors and visitors. The West Coast Surf Classic, an amateur surf carnival that has been going for the past 30 years, follows this event each March long weekend and attracts up to 1000 spectators and competitors.
Just over an hour’s drive from Rocky Cape, Wings Wildlife Park in Gunns Plains is a fantastic family‑friendly attraction and home to the largest collection of Tasmanian wildlife in Australia.
Visitors can get up close with Tasmanian devils, koalas, kangaroos, meerkats, reptiles, and more than 150 species of animals. The park also offers daily animal presentations, opportunities to feed trout and friendly kangaroos, and a relaxed riverside setting perfect for a day trip.
It’s an ideal outing for families, couples, and nature lovers looking to experience Tasmania’s unique wildlife in a fun and interactive way.
Heading off the beaten track and into the wilderness, The Tarkine Drive in Tasmania's north-west is now easily accessible for anyone wanting to get back in touch with nature and experience the wilderness. The loop through the Tarkine Drive takes travellers through natural and dramatic landscapes beginning with Kanunnah Bridge Picnic Area, taking its name from the aboriginal name for 'Tasmanian Tiger', Sumac Lookout surrounded by rainforest and tall eucalypts and more impressive widespread views of the river and beyond. Julius River Forest Reserve has cool temperate rainforest, excellent picnic facilities and with two walks, moderate 30 minute and 40-minute walks. Lake Chisholm Forest Reserve has flooded limestone sinkholes and meandering walks through old myrtle forests and alongside still watered lakes. At Milkshakes Hills Forest Reserve, relax with picnic spots nestled among the eucalypts. Completing the loop is the Trowutta Arch Rain Forest Walk, a stunning and natural geological structure. The Tarkine Drive starts an effortless 45km drive from Rocky Cape to Smithton. Smithton to the Tarkine Drive return is 130 km. The Tarkine Drive route is sealed and has made the drive easily accessible and much more pleasurable.
The Trowutta Arch State Reserve is a beautiful area of luscious Tasmanian rainforest. The main attraction, named the Trowutta Arch, is a giant rock arch which appears like a shallow cave with an opening at either side. There is a piece of water with a green appearance and a beautiful surrounding of natural rainforest.
Many people visit the Trowutta Arch from Rocky Cape, which is a 1 hour, 90 kilometre drive. Take the Bass Highway to Smithton then turn left, taking the Trowutta Road to Trowutta. Turn left onto Reids Road then right shortly after onto Reynolds Road, then left onto Gun Road.
Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park
For families who love nature, Cradle Mountain offers gentle walks, wildlife spotting, and breath-taking alpine scenery. It’s one of Tasmania’s most iconic destinations and an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.
Cradle Mountain is 140km Southeast of Rocky Cape. It is situated in the Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair World Heritage National Park. The park contains many walking trails and is where hikes along the well-known Overland Track begin. The park is known for its diverse and breath-taking landscapes including moss-covered ancient rainforests, deep river gorges, snow covered mountain peaks, wild alpine moorlands and glacial lakes.
The Edge of the World (100km West of Rocky Cape) is a wild and desolate place, beset by churning seas. Rolling waves drag pieces of driftwood the size of whole tree trunks onto the windswept beach. The bare logs are washed by the wind and currents into neat stacks on the sand, bringing a whiff of order to the mayhem. There's no land between this solitary stretch of the Tasmanian coast and Argentina, making it the longest uninterrupted expanse of ocean on Earth. Located an hour's drive from Rocky Cape, at Gardiners Point just south of the Arthur River, it makes a great day out for a picnic lunch and scenic drive. With a new enclosed BBQ area, it is the perfect place to take your lunch and have a cook up before continuing on your journey.
Sheffield – Town of Murals
A colourful open‑air art gallery, Sheffield is filled with murals depicting local stories and history. It’s a fun and easy day trip for families who enjoy exploring at their own pace and discovering art around every corner.
Just 115km Southeast of Rocky Cape. The town has over 50 murals painted on the side of every building and the face of every structure in town. The murals were created by local artists and depict the community story and that of local characters past and present.
Tasmazia - 136km Southeast of Rocky Cape, just past Sheffield, located at 500 Staverton Rd, Promised Land. Let them take you on a journey through one of the world’s largest maze complexes, with a total of eight magical mazes to lose yourself in, each completely different from the last!
- The Great Maze is one of the world’s largest mazes – do you dare to take the challenge?
- The Hampton Court Maze is an exact replica of the famous original in London.
- The Balance Maze will seriously test your agility!
- The Yellow Brick Road Maze is a favourite among Tasmanian tourist attractions, loved by kids of all ages!
The Village of Lower Crackpot is a quirky model village built to 1/5 scale, with plenty of unusual sights to see. And take a trip around the world in our Embassy Gardens, with buildings dedicated to over 40 countries, as well as a few imaginary ones, just for fun!