Bay of Fires, Tasmania

It’s no wonder Lonely Planet named the Bay of Fires “the world’s top travel destination” back in 2009: long stretches of white sandy beach with clear turquoise-blue water surrounded by lichen-stained rocks make for breathtaking scenery that hasn’t diminished in the five years since.

The area owes its name to English Captain Tobias Furneaux, who spotted several fires along the coast in 1773. He was rightly convinced the area was densely populated, as evidence of Aboriginal occupation can be found along the coast today.

Bay of Fires location

The Bay of Fires can be found 254km north-east of Hobart and extends from Binalong Bay in the south to Eddystone Point in the north. Nearby town of St Helens can be accessed via the A3 from Hobart, Binalong Bay Road (C850), and a left turn onto C848 to The Gardens.

Bay of Fires accommodation

If you’re keen on bush camping, you can set up your tent right next to the beach. And the best bit? Camping is completely free! It is not often you are afforded multi-million dollar views without the price tag attached. You do have to be completely self-sufficient, though the shire of St Helens has a water tap in town where campers can fill up their tanks and jerry cans.

With six different camping areas from which to choose, there is room for everyone. The area at Jeanneret Beach is especially suitable for families with young children. The kids can play in the lovely soft sand and climb the rocks, while mum and dad laze around on the beach and enjoy the beauty of this stretch of coast.

The Bay of Fires truly is a top travel destination and the kind of place you need to experience for yourself, at least once in a lifetime.

Find accommodation near Hobart.

Bay of Fires itinerary

Day 1: Explore the Bay of Fires by car.

Day 2: Visit St Helens and enjoy coffee with cake.

Day 3: Laze around the campsite and go for a swim.

Planning a visit to Tasmania? Book accommodation online at Turu Australia.