West Coast Tasmania Travel Guide
West Coast Tasmania is one of Australia’s last true wilderness frontiers. Vast rainforests, rugged mountain ranges, wild rivers, remote beaches and historic mining towns combine to create a region unlike anywhere else in the country.
For travellers seeking adventure, solitude and dramatic landscapes, Tasmania’s West Coast offers unforgettable experiences. From cruising the legendary Gordon River to exploring the ancient Tarkine Wilderness, the region rewards those willing to venture beyond the island’s more popular tourist routes.
While much of Tasmania is known for beaches and coastal towns, the West Coast is defined by wilderness, history and raw natural beauty.
Where Is West Coast Tasmania?
West Coast Tasmania stretches from the Southern Ocean in the south to the edge of the Tarkine region in the north-west.
Major towns include:
- Strahan
- Queenstown
- Zeehan
- Rosebery
- Tullah
The region is one of the least populated areas in Australia, offering visitors vast landscapes and a true sense of remoteness.
Why Visit West Coast Tasmania?
The West Coast appeals to travellers who want to experience Tasmania’s wild side.
Visitors come here for:
- Ancient rainforests
- Mountain scenery
- Wilderness cruises
- Historic mining towns
- Giant sand dunes
- Waterfalls
- Wildlife encounters
- Scenic drives
- Remote beaches
The region is also home to some of Australia’s most significant wilderness areas.
Strahan
Strahan is the gateway to Tasmania’s west coast wilderness.
Located on the shores of Macquarie Harbour, the town serves as the starting point for many of the region’s most popular experiences.
Top attractions include:
- Gordon River Cruises
- West Coast Wilderness Railway
- Ocean Beach
- Hogarth Falls
- Sarah Island
Strahan is often considered one of Tasmania’s most picturesque waterfront towns.
Gordon River
The Gordon River is one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural attractions.
Flowing through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, the river is famous for its mirror-like reflections, ancient rainforests and tranquil scenery.
Highlights include:
- Wilderness cruises
- Heritage landings
- Ancient Huon pines
- Wildlife viewing
- Photography opportunities
A cruise on the Gordon River is often regarded as one of Tasmania’s must-do experiences.
Queenstown
Queenstown is unlike any other town in Australia.
Surrounded by rugged mountains and famous for its dramatic lunar-like landscape, the town was shaped by more than a century of mining history.
Popular attractions include:
- Spion Kop Lookout
- Iron Blow Lookout
- Galley Museum
- Historic railway experiences
- Scenic mountain drives
The surrounding landscape offers some of Tasmania’s most unique photography opportunities.
Tarkine Wilderness
The Tarkine is one of Tasmania’s greatest natural treasures.
Covering more than 400,000 hectares, it contains Australia’s largest cool-temperate rainforest and one of the most significant wilderness regions in the Southern Hemisphere.
The area is home to:
- Ancient rainforest
- Wild rivers
- Giant sand dunes
- Aboriginal heritage sites
- Rare wildlife
- Remote coastlines
Many visitors consider the Tarkine one of Tasmania’s most underrated destinations.
Zeehan
Once one of Tasmania’s richest mining towns, Zeehan is now a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.
Visitors can explore:
- West Coast Heritage Centre
- Historic buildings
- Mining history displays
- Scenic drives
The town provides insight into the region’s rich mining heritage.
Henty Dunes
The Henty Dunes are among the largest coastal sand dunes in Australia.
Located between Strahan and Zeehan, they provide a unique landscape rarely associated with Tasmania.
Popular activities include:
- Walking
- Photography
- Sandboarding
- Sunset viewing
The dunes offer spectacular views across the surrounding wilderness.
Montezuma Falls
Montezuma Falls is Tasmania’s highest waterfall.
Located near Rosebery, the waterfall plunges more than 100 metres through lush rainforest.
The walk to the falls passes through:
- Ancient forest
- Historic mining remnants
- Suspension bridge crossings
- Fern-filled valleys
It is one of Tasmania’s most rewarding rainforest walks.
Ocean Beach
Stretching for more than 30 kilometres near Strahan, Ocean Beach is one of Tasmania’s most powerful coastal environments.
Known for:
- Massive surf
- Wild scenery
- Sunset photography
- Untouched coastline
Visitors should exercise caution due to strong currents and unpredictable conditions.
Best Scenic Drives on the West Coast
The West Coast offers some of Australia’s most spectacular road trips.
Lyell Highway
Connecting Hobart with Queenstown and Strahan through mountains and rainforest.
Murchison Highway
A scenic route linking Burnie with the West Coast region.
Western Explorer Road
A remote drive providing access to the Tarkine and north-west wilderness.
Zeehan Highway
A beautiful route connecting major west coast attractions.
Wildlife on Tasmania’s West Coast
The region supports an incredible variety of wildlife.
Visitors may encounter:
- Tasmanian Devils
- Wombats
- Wallabies
- Pademelons
- Echidnas
- Sea Eagles
- Dolphins
- Seals
Many species thrive in the region’s vast protected wilderness areas.
Best Time to Visit West Coast Tasmania
Summer (December to February)
Long daylight hours and excellent conditions for exploration.
Autumn (March to May)
Cool temperatures and beautiful forest scenery.
Winter (June to August)
Dramatic weather, misty mountains and fewer visitors.
Spring (September to November)
Wildflowers, waterfalls and active wildlife.
The West Coast receives more rainfall than other parts of Tasmania, helping create its lush rainforest landscapes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is West Coast Tasmania worth visiting?
Absolutely. The region offers some of Australia’s most spectacular wilderness, history and natural scenery.
How many days should I spend on the West Coast?
A minimum of three to five days is recommended, although longer stays allow for deeper exploration.
What is the most famous attraction on Tasmania’s West Coast?
The Gordon River, Strahan and the Tarkine Wilderness are among the region’s most iconic attractions.
Can you drive around West Coast Tasmania?
Yes. Several scenic highways connect the region’s major towns and attractions.
Discover West Coast Tasmania
West Coast Tasmania is a place where nature still dominates the landscape. Ancient rainforests, wild rivers, rugged mountains and historic mining towns combine to create one of Australia’s most unforgettable travel destinations.
Whether you’re cruising the Gordon River, exploring the Tarkine Wilderness or watching the sun set over Ocean Beach, Tasmania’s West Coast delivers experiences that stay with you long after your journey ends.