The best walks and hikes in Coles Bay Conservation Area
4.8
(334)
3,949
hikers
14
hikes
Hiking in Coles Bay Conservation Area is characterized by its diverse coastal scenery, featuring dramatic pink-hued granite mountains of the Hazards range. The region includes pristine white sandy beaches and the azure waters of the Tasman Sea and Great Oyster Bay. Hikers can explore a variety of environments, from sheltered bays to open coastal paths. This area offers a network of trails suitable for various levels of interest and fitness.
Best hiking trails in Coles Bay Conservation Area
- The most popular hiking route is Wineglass Bay Lookout – Wineglass Bay Lookout loop from Coles Bay, a 6.4 miles (10.3 km) trail that takes 3 hours 7 minutes to complete. This route offers panoramic views of Wineglass Bay.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Honeymoon Bay loop from Coles Bay, an easy 4.6 miles (7.4 km) path. This trail showcases unique rock formations along the coastline.
- Local hikers also love the Wineglass Bay Lookout loop, a 1.9 miles (3.0 km) trail leading through coastal terrain, often completed in about 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Hiking in Coles Bay Conservation Area is defined by pink granite mountains, white sandy beaches, and diverse coastal paths. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Coles Bay Conservation Area are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 400 reviews. More than 5000 hikers have used komoot to explore Coles Bay Conservation Area's varied terrain.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
4.9
(14)
96
hikers
9.77km
02:58
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.0
(2)
14
hikers
9.10km
02:24
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily walkable paths.
4.9
(12)
93
hikers
637m
00:12
30m
30m
Easy hike. Easily walkable paths.
4.9
(166)
1,453
hikers
11.7km
03:24
250m
250m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.7
(62)
878
hikers
2.99km
01:10
150m
150m
Moderate hike. Mostly walkable paths. Sure-footedness required.
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Popular around Coles Bay Conservation Area
Tips from the Community
This stone bench is the perfect place to take a break with a small viewpoint though the trees.
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Cape Tourville Lighthouse has been keeping watch over this stretch of the Freycinet coast since 1971, when it replaced the much harder-to-reach light on nearby Lemon Rock. The lighthouse was built to operate automatically and was never staffed, so there are no keeper’s quarters or tours here. The boardwalk loops right around it, with the cliffs, The Nuggets and open Tasman Sea creating a pretty spectacular backdrop.
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Cape Tourville Circuit is a short 600-metre loop, but there’s a lot packed into it. The raised boardwalk wraps around the lighthouse and keeps the coast in view almost the whole way, with the Hazards, Wineglass Bay and The Nuggets appearing from different angles. The surface is wide and even with no steps, though stay behind the barriers where the boardwalk runs close to the cliffs.
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The coastline opens up beautifully from Cape Tourville, with the Hazards, Wineglass Bay and the offshore rocks known as The Nuggets all visible from the boardwalk. The cliffs drop sharply below you, while the sea seems to stretch forever beyond the peninsula. Keep scanning the water as you go too, as whales, dolphins, seals and seabirds are all sometimes spotted from this part of the coast.
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No Merlot here — the shelf stands empty, quiet, waiting for a bottle that never comes. Kein Merlot hier — das Regal bleibt leer, still, wartend auf eine Flasche, die nie kommt. Pas de Merlot ici — l'étagère reste vide, silencieuse, attendant une bouteille qui n'arrive jamais. No hay Merlot aquí — el estante queda vacío, silencioso, esperando una botella que nunca llega.
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This lookout point is quite the reward for the hike to get here! Turquoise water, a white-sand beach, and hills surrounding the bay, all seen from above. You may choose to descend to this beach via the "1000 Stairs," but be aware that you are descending first; that's the easy part. You then must climb back up.
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Wineglass Bay Track is impressively well-maintained, with stone steps, guardrails, clear signage, and jaw-dropping viewpoints. The boulder fields have interestingly shaped giant stones that really invoke the imagination.
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As you weave in and out of this impressive boulder field, check out this balanced rock; it's a great spot for a photo. This rock formation is one of Tasmania's famous pink-and-orange granite formations in the Hazards Mountain range. These huge, rounded boulders were created from ancient molten granite that slowly cooled far beneath the Earth's surface 370 million years ago. Over time, they became exposed through uplift and erosion.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Coles Bay Conservation Area?
Coles Bay Conservation Area offers a diverse network of 15 hiking trails. These include 3 easy routes, 8 moderate trails, and 4 more challenging options, catering to various fitness levels and preferences.
What are the typical landscapes and natural features I can expect to see while hiking?
Hikers in Coles Bay Conservation Area will encounter stunning pink-hued granite mountains of the Hazards range, contrasting beautifully with pristine white sandy beaches and the azure waters of the Tasman Sea and Great Oyster Bay. The trails offer diverse coastal scenery, from sheltered bays to dramatic open coastal paths.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in Coles Bay Conservation Area?
Yes, there are several family-friendly hikes. For an easy and scenic walk, consider the Honeymoon Bay loop from Coles Bay, which is 4.6 miles (7.4 km) and showcases unique rock formations. Many of the easier coastal paths are suitable for families looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Coles Bay Conservation Area?
While the region is a fantastic place for outdoor activities, it's important to note that most of Coles Bay Conservation Area, including Freycinet National Park, has restrictions on dogs to protect native wildlife. It's best to check specific park regulations before planning your hike with a dog.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Coles Bay Conservation Area?
The best time to visit for hiking is generally during the spring (October-November) when native orchids are abundant, or autumn (March-May) for milder temperatures. Summer (December-February) is popular but can be hot, while winter (June-August) offers cooler weather and fewer crowds, with opportunities for birdwatching.
Are there any circular hiking routes available?
Yes, many trails in Coles Bay Conservation Area are designed as loops. A popular option is the Wineglass Bay Lookout – Wineglass Bay Lookout loop from Coles Bay, a 6.4-mile (10.3 km) route offering panoramic views. Another is the Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit, a moderate 7.3-mile (11.7 km) loop.
What kind of wildlife might I encounter on the trails?
Coles Bay Conservation Area is rich in wildlife. Hikers often spot native animals such as pademelons, echidnas, wombats, and wallabies. Birdwatchers may also see white-bellied sea eagles and other native birds, especially during the off-season.
Are there any challenging hikes for experienced adventurers?
Yes, for more experienced hikers, the area offers challenging routes. While not listed in the guide data, the climb up Mount Amos is known for its incredible, albeit challenging, views over Wineglass Bay. There are 4 difficult routes in total within the conservation area for those seeking a greater challenge.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Coles Bay Conservation Area?
The trails in Coles Bay Conservation Area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 400 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning coastal scenery, the dramatic pink granite mountains, and the well-maintained paths that lead to iconic viewpoints like Wineglass Bay Lookout.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
Yes, parking is generally available at key access points and trailheads within Coles Bay Conservation Area, particularly near popular starting points like Coles Bay and The Fisheries. However, during peak season, parking areas can fill up quickly, so it's advisable to arrive early.
Are there any permits or fees required to hike in the area?
Access to Freycinet National Park, which encompasses many of the popular hiking trails in Coles Bay Conservation Area, requires a valid Parks Pass. These passes can be purchased online or at visitor centers. It's essential to have one before commencing your hike.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming along the hiking routes?
Yes, the pristine white sandy beaches and clear, calm waters of Coles Bay Conservation Area offer ideal conditions for swimming. Honeymoon Bay and Wineglass Bay are particularly renowned for their beauty and provide excellent spots for a refreshing dip after a hike.
Most popular routes in Coles Bay Conservation Area
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