Discover Tasmania’s Wild West Coast
Strahan, a picturesque harbour town on Tasmania’s west coast, offers rich history and stunning natural landscapes. As the gateway to the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, it invites visitors to explore rainforests, cruise the Gordon River, and experience the region’s beauty and adventure.
A Scenic Journey Through Tasmania’s Wilderness
The drive to Strahan is spectacular, offering views of magnificent rainforests, mountain peaks, lakes and historical landmarks along the way. It’s approximately:
300km – 5 hours’ drive – from Hobart
270km – 4 hours’ drive – from Launceston
230km – 3 hours’ drive – from Devonport.
Time your drive to allow for stops along the way and to arrive before dusk as this is the time wildlife is most active.
Embrace Strahan’s Seasonal Charm
Strahan’s population is approximately 700 but swells considerably during peak season in the summer months.
Weather here can be unpredictable at any time of year. Even in Summer you may need a warm jacket, just in case of a cold Antarctic blast or rain front coming through from the Southern Ocean. But when the sun shines there is no better place to be, and that is the beauty of Strahan and the West Coast of Tasmania.
Autumn, we think, is also a fabulous time to visit. Although we can’t guarantee the weather, when the sun shines and the air is cool and crisp, with no wind, the days are magical!
Strahan’s Main Attractions
Cruise the Gordon River
Discover the serene beauty of Tasmania’s Wild West Coast with a cruise on the Gordon River from Strahan and learn the history of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed Frankin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park and Macquarie Harbour.
Cruise through the infamous Hell’s Gates and across Macquarie Harbour
and see Tasmanian aquaculture in action …
… savour lunch on board as you glide along the glassy
Gordon River, fringed by ancient temperate rainforest …
… stroll the boardwalk at Heritage Landing into pristine wilderness …
… and step ashore at historic Sarah Island to uncover how convicts turned a “hell on earth” into one of Australia’s largest shipyards!
This experience is available with either of the following two companies…
World Heritage Cruises
The local family-owned “Red Boat”. Lunch is a chef-prepared meal, individually plated and served at your seat on board “Harbour Master II”. Check their website www.worldheritagecruises.com.au for more information and seating options, and if you phone (03) 6471 7174 to make your reservation and mention you are staying at Castaway, you may be eligible for a discount (if no other discounts or packages are available).
Gordon River Cruises
The “Grey Boat”, owned by corporate NRMA.
Lunch on board the “Spirit of the Wild” is a buffet. You can check seating options and make your reservation on their website, www.gordonrivercruises.com.au or call (03) 6471 4300.
West Coast Wilderness Railway
Step aboard the West Coast Wilderness Railway and journey through Tasmania’s rugged west coast, where rainforest-clad mountains, wild rivers, and rich history meet. Follow the historic track built by pioneers, hear tales of the region’s mining past, and soak up breathtaking scenery from the comfort of a beautifully restored carriage. Bookings are essential to avoid missing out.
Visit their website www.wcwr.com.au to book your journey or phone (03) 6471 0100.
The Ship That Never Was
Australia’s longest-running play, “The Ship That Never Was”, brings to life the daring true story of the last convict escape from Sarah Island. Performed in Strahan – with humour, help from the audience, and a touch of cheeky improvisation – it tells how ten convicts stole the last ship ever built on Sarah Island, and sailed to freedom. A lively mix of history and entertainment for all ages, it’s a must-see on Tasmania’s West Coast!
The play is performed daily at 5:30pm in the Richard Davey Amphitheatre, September through to May (and possibly longer depending on interest).
Bookings are essential as audience numbers are limited. Visit Round Earth Company’s website www.roundearth.com.au for more information and booking options, or call 0476 651 089.
MORE TO EXPLORE
Foreshore Walking Path
Stretch your legs along Strahan’s foreshore, where sparkling waters, playful seabirds, and charming historic buildings make every step a delight. Perfect for families, photographers, or anyone who loves a leisurely harbour-side wander.
Hogarth Falls
From People’s Park, take a gentle 40-minute return walk through lush West Coast rainforest to the charming Hogarth Falls. Keep a keen eye on the streams—you might just spot the elusive platypus in its natural habitat.
Water Tower Lookout
Head up to the Water Tower Lookout for panoramic views over Strahan, Macquarie Harbour, and the surrounding wilderness. It’s the perfect spot to take in sunsets, snap photos, and appreciate the town from above.
Ocean Beach
Breathe in the cleanest air in the world as you stroll along this endless stretch of sand—the next land west is Argentina. Pack a bottle of Tasmanian wine for a magical sunset experience. From December to February, witness thousands of Short-tailed Shearwaters (Mutton Birds) swoop in from the sea at dusk, returning to their nests in a breathtaking nightly spectacle.
Ocean Beach Trail
Cycle or walk the scenic 2 km track through native bushland to the vast, windswept beauty of Ocean Beach.
Macquarie Heads
Visit the dramatic harbour entrance, 18 km west of Strahan, once dubbed “Hells Gates” by convicts. Feel the power of history and the untamed ocean as you stand at this iconic spot.
Henty Dunes
Discover one of the West Coast’s natural wonders—towering, ever-shifting sand dunes just 15 minutes north of Strahan. Adventurous? Hire a sandboard from Gordon River Cruises and ride the slopes.
Whitmore's WILD
From October to April, join a knowledgeable guide on a family friendly twilight walking adventure through the wilderness of Ocean Beach Conservation Area, learning to spot signs of Tasmania’s nocturnal wildlife. The track leads to Ocean Beach, Tasmania’s longest beach, where the evening glow fades to darkness and the spotlighting adventure begins. Go to the website www.whitmoreswild.com.au to book your tour!