Bruny Island
Discovering Bruny Island: A Hidden Gem off Tasmania’s Coast
Tucked away off the southern coast of Tasmania, Bruny Island is a stunning haven of natural beauty, unique wildlife, and rich history. This charming island, just a short ferry ride from the mainland, offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers, food enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Whether you're drawn to its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, or its delectable local produce, Bruny Island has something for everyone.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know about Bruny Island—from the best things to see and do to how to make the most of your time on this beautiful island.
Why Visit Bruny Island?
Bruny Island is one of Tasmania’s most picturesque and diverse destinations. Spanning just over 360 square kilometers, the island is a microcosm of Tasmania's rugged beauty, with wild landscapes ranging from towering cliffs to pristine beaches, and lush forests to rolling hills. But what makes Bruny Island stand out is its perfect combination of natural wonders and local culture, making it the ideal place for those looking to experience the best of Tasmania.
The island is split into two parts: North Bruny and South Bruny, connected by a narrow strip of land known as The Neck. Each area has its own distinct appeal, offering visitors plenty to explore, taste, and discover.
Top Attractions on Bruny Island
1. The Neck Lookout
One of the most iconic sights on Bruny Island is The Neck, a narrow isthmus that connects the northern and southern parts of the island. The Neck Lookout is a must-visit spot, offering sweeping views of the surrounding coastline and the entrance to the D'Entrecasteaux Channel. It’s also an excellent spot to spot wildlife, including the famous white wallabies that call Bruny Island home.
A short walk from the lookout will take you to a beautiful beach, Adventure Bay, where you can take a stroll along the water's edge or enjoy a relaxing picnic.
2. Bruny Island Lighthouse
Located on the southern tip of the island, the Bruny Island Lighthouse is a piece of Australian history, having been built in 1838. Perched on the edge of the island, the lighthouse offers dramatic views over the Southern Ocean and nearby islands. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of the lighthouse, the keepers who manned it, and the challenges of living in such a remote location.
The surrounding cliffs and coastline are spectacular, with rugged rock formations and crashing waves providing a stunning backdrop.
3. Mavista Falls
For those who enjoy a good hike, Mavista Falls is a hidden gem on Bruny Island. This beautiful waterfall is nestled in the island's rainforest, and the trail to the falls takes you through lush forest and past moss-covered trees. The falls are especially picturesque after rainfall when the water flows powerfully down the rocks. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a tranquil escape in nature.
4. Bruny Island Cruises
A visit to Bruny Island would not be complete without a Bruny Island Wilderness Cruise. This popular activity takes you on a boat tour around the island's dramatic coastline, offering the chance to see the island from a completely different perspective. The cruise will take you past towering sea cliffs, remote beaches, and beautiful rock formations like the The Friars and the Tollgate Islands. You’ll also have the opportunity to spot wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and seabirds.
The Adventure Cruise is perfect for thrill-seekers, while the Eco Cruise focuses on the island’s natural beauty and wildlife.
5. South Bruny National Park
The South Bruny National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with a range of walking trails that take you through dense forests, across heathlands, and along spectacular coastlines. The park’s most famous hike is the Fluted Cape Walk, which rewards hikers with panoramic views of the coastline and dramatic cliffs. The walk is relatively short but moderately challenging, and the vistas at the top are absolutely breathtaking.
If you're looking for a more relaxed experience, the Coal Point Track offers a gentle stroll through forested landscapes, with views of the coastline and the island's abundant wildlife.
6. Bruny Island Cheese Company
For foodies, Bruny Island is a true delight. The island is known for its exceptional local produce, and one of the best places to sample this is the Bruny Island Cheese Company. Located near the Lunawanna area on South Bruny, this charming cheese factory is renowned for its handmade cheeses made with locally sourced ingredients. You can enjoy a cheese tasting in the cozy café, where you’ll be treated to a range of cheeses, from soft creamy varieties to aged cheddar.
In addition to cheese, Bruny Island also produces artisan chocolates, berries, and fresh seafood, all of which can be found at local markets and food outlets across the island.
7. Bruny Island Oysters
Bruny Island is home to some of the finest oysters in the world, and a visit to the island wouldn’t be complete without sampling these fresh, briny delicacies. Several oyster farms are scattered around the island, offering visitors the opportunity to taste oysters straight from the water. Get Shucked is one of the most popular oyster farms, where you can enjoy freshly shucked oysters with a view of the pristine waters.
Wildlife on Bruny Island
Bruny Island is a wildlife lover’s paradise, and it's one of the best places in Tasmania to see unique and rare species. The island is home to the elusive white wallaby, a subspecies of the common wallaby, which is found only on Bruny Island and a few other parts of Tasmania. Keep an eye out for these adorable creatures, particularly around dusk or dawn when they’re most active.
In addition to wallabies, Bruny Island is also home to an array of birdlife, including fairy prions, albatrosses, and eagles. The coastal waters are teeming with marine life, and you may even spot seals, dolphins, and occasionally whales as they migrate through the area.
Best Time to Visit Bruny Island
The best time to visit Bruny Island is during the spring (November to early December) and summer (December to February) months. During this time, the weather is warmer, and many of the island’s outdoor activities, such as hiking and cruising, are at their best. The island's food scene also peaks during the summer, with fresh produce and seafood in abundance.
For those looking for a quieter experience, autumn (March to May) is also a great time to visit, as the island is less crowded, and the changing colors of the leaves add to the island’s beauty. Winter (June to August) can be cold and rainy, but if you're seeking a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path experience, winter can be an ideal time to explore the island's rugged charm.
How to Get to Bruny Island
To get to Bruny Island, you’ll need to take a ferry from Kettering, which is about a 40-minute drive south of Hobart. The ferry ride takes around 20 minutes and runs regularly throughout the day. Vehicles can be taken on the ferry, so you can easily explore the island at your own pace.
Alternatively, if you're not traveling with your own car, you can join a guided tour from Hobart that includes transportation to the ferry terminal and guided exploration of the island's highlights.
Why Visit Bruny Island?
Bruny Island is one of Tasmania’s most beautiful and unique destinations, offering a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, outdoor adventure, wildlife encounters, and delicious local food. Whether you’re hiking along rugged coastlines, cruising the waters, sampling local cheeses and oysters, or simply soaking in the stunning scenery, Bruny Island is an unforgettable experience.
This hidden gem of Tasmania offers a tranquil retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, all while immersing themselves in one of Australia’s most pristine and picturesque regions. So pack your bags, hop on the ferry, and get ready to discover the wild beauty and rich culture of Bruny Island—you won’t regret it!