Coles Bay is one of the best places in Tasmania to enjoy walking tours that combine stunning scenery, wildlife encounters, and relaxed pace. Its rugged coastlines, white beaches, and granite peaks make it an outdoor lover’s paradise, especially when exploring on foot. Whether you’re after a leisurely beach walk, an in-depth coastal hike, or a mix of boat and land adventures, Coles Bay offers options that suit different interests and fitness levels. We particularly like the Freycinet Walking Tour, which blends nature, good food, and small-group attention—perfect for visitors wanting a personal touch.
For those short on time but eager for a true taste of Tasmania’s coast, the Wineglass Bay Shared Cruise and Walking Tour offers a compact yet memorable experience. Meanwhile, the Hobart: Wineglass Bay & Cape Hauy: 2Day Coastal Walking Tour is perfect for backpackers or fit travelers wanting to extend their adventure over two days with hikes along Tasmania’s legendary coastlines.
1. Freycinet Walking Tour
At number one, the Freycinet Walking Tour stands out for its combination of guided nature exploration and relaxing beach picnics. This 5.5-hour tour takes you along some of the most beautiful parts of Freycinet National Park, including the famous Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach. What makes this tour unique is the small group size—up to 12 people—meaning you get personalized attention and more opportunity to learn about local wildlife and the park’s geology.
The journey begins at the iconic Wineglass Bay Lookout, where you enjoy panoramic views that are often featured in travel magazines. From there, you’ll descend a quiet bush track to the beach itself, where you can kick off your shoes and enjoy the white sands. The tour features a delicious morning tea and a picnic lunch served on the beach, making it a true treat after the hike. The guide, Andrew, and others have received glowing reviews, with one noting, “The views definitely were great motivation,” and praising the personal approach.
This tour is best suited for travelers seeking an intimate, leisurely experience with food included. The walk is moderate, and the focus on wildlife and scenery makes it perfect for nature lovers. The only downside might be the cost, but many find the personalized experience justifies the price.
Bottom Line: This tour combines scenic walks, wildlife insights, and excellent food in a small-group setting—ideal for those wanting a relaxed, memorable day in Freycinet.
2. Hobart: Wineglass Bay & Cape Hauy: 2Day Coastal Walking Tour
If you’re after a longer, more immersive experience, the Hobart: Wineglass Bay & Cape Hauy: 2Day Coastal Walking Tour is a perfect pick. This 10-hour tour from Hobart offers the chance to explore two of Tasmania’s most breathtaking coastal walks over two days, including a section of the world-famous Three Capes Track. It’s ideal for hikers who want a deeper connection with the rugged Tasmanian coast and enjoy stunning vistas, wildlife, and challenging terrain.
The tour includes a walk to the Wineglass Bay Lookout, followed by a descent to the beach, plus a hike along the Cape Hauy track, famous for its dramatic cliffs and sea views. Staying overnight in Hobart means you avoid rushing, and you can savor the experience of waking up near the coast. Although it’s a more physically demanding option, the reward is an authentic, more comprehensive look at Tasmania’s coastal wilderness.
With just one review so far, the tour has earned a perfect rating. It’s best suited for fit, adventure-minded travelers who want to see Tasmania’s coast over multiple days and appreciate a more challenging hike, with the benefit of expert guides leading the way.
Bottom Line: For seasoned hikers and those looking to extend their trip, this two-day coastal adventure offers unmatched scenery and a chance to step into Tasmania’s wild landscape.
3. Wineglass Bay Shared Cruise and Walking Tour
The third option, the Wineglass Bay Shared Cruise and Walking Tour, provides a hybrid experience that combines a scenic cruise with a relaxed bushwalk. For around $86, this 4-7 hour tour is a great choice if you want to skip the strenuous hike but still get a good look at Wineglass Bay and its surroundings.
The tour kicks off with a 30-minute cruise along Great Oyster Bay, during which local guides share stories about the area’s wildlife and history. After arriving at Hazards Beach, you’ll take a gentle 2-kilometer bushwalk along the Isthmus Track to reach the famed Wineglass Bay. Once there, you can unwind on the pristine sands and take in the crystal-clear waters—perfect for a picnic and a quick swim if you’re brave enough.
Many reviewers like the speed and convenience of this tour, especially for those who prefer a shorter, more relaxed outing. Your return is via boat, making this a very efficient way to experience Wineglass Bay without a long hike. This tour is suitable for families, older travelers, or anyone not keen on a demanding trek.
Bottom Line: Combining boat and beach, this tour offers a hassle-free way to see Wineglass Bay’s beauty, perfect for those on a tighter schedule or preferring a gentler outing.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour in Coles Bay
When selecting a tour, consider your fitness level, time available, and what kind of experience excites you most. If you want a personalized, food-inclusive walk with wildlife insights, the Freycinet Walking Tour is a top pick. For those seeking a multi-day adventure with a focus on rugged coastlines, the Hobart 2-Day Coastal Walk is ideal. If a shorter, easier experience with a boat ride appeals, then the Wineglass Bay Shared Cruise fits the bill.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, and think about the level of activity you’re comfortable with. For a relaxed day with stunning scenery, the cruise combo is unbeatable. For a deeper immersion into Tasmania’s wilderness, the multi-day or guided walking options will satisfy your craving for adventure.
In summary, Coles Bay offers a range of walking experiences that showcase its natural beauty—whether you’re after a leisurely beach day, a challenging multi-day trek, or a scenic boat cruise. For most visitors, the Freycinet Walking Tour provides a perfect balance of scenery, wildlife, and comfort. But if you’re short on time or prefer a gentler outing, the cruise option is a great choice. Plan ahead and book early—Tasmania’s stunning coast isn’t going to explore itself.