Honeymoon Bay
Honeymoon Bay
A small sheltered cove in Freycinet National Park, near Coles Bay in Tasmania, framed by granite rocks and accessible within minutes from the car park.
Honeymoon Bay is a small sheltered cove within Freycinet National Park, in eastern Tasmania. Located just minutes from Richardsons Beach campground, near Coles Bay, it stands out for its calm waters and the granite rocks characteristic of Tasmania's east coast.
Why visit Honeymoon Bay?
The bay offers one of the most direct accesses to an iconic site within Freycinet National Park without requiring a lengthy walk. Unlike Wineglass Bay, which demands a hiking trip, Honeymoon Bay is accessible within minutes from the car park. The cove is narrow, framed by pink granite boulders, making it a representative viewpoint of the local geology and a favourite spot for photography at sunset and sunrise.
It sees fewer visitors than Wineglass Bay Lookout, and its sheltered aspect makes it ideal for swimming and snorkelling when conditions permit.
What to see and do
- Swimming in clear water, typically cool even in summer.
- Snorkelling around the granite rocks of the cove, where you can observe marine life and submerged rock formations.
- Photography at sunrise and sunset, when the granite glows in orange tones.
- Picnicking on flat rocks or in shaded areas nearby.
- Sea kayaking along the park's coastline from Coles Bay, with local operators.
- Short coastal walks between Honeymoon Bay and neighbouring coves around Richardsons Beach.
When to visit
The site is open year-round. The Southern Hemisphere seasons are inverted from the European calendar:
- Summer (December to February): the most favourable period for swimming and snorkelling, but also the busiest. Car parks fill up by mid-morning; arrive early.
- Spring (September to November): mild climate, coastal vegetation in bloom, moderate crowds. An ideal time to combine hiking with beach time.
- Autumn (March to May): still pleasant temperatures, warm light, quiet trails.
- Winter (June to August): cool days but often clear skies, very few visitors. Suited to photography and short walks; swimming is rare.
How to get there
Honeymoon Bay is located within Freycinet National Park, beyond Coles Bay village. Access is by car, following signs for "Freycinet Visitor Centre / Richardsons Beach / Honeymoon Bay".
- From Hobart: take the Tasman Highway (A3) north-east, then Coles Bay Road (C302) approximately 12 km south of Bicheno. Allow about 2.5 hours driving.
- From Launceston: follow the Midland Highway then the Tasman Highway via Bicheno, and turn onto the C302. Allow about 2 to 2.5 hours depending on stops.
- On-site: after the Freycinet Visitor Centre, continue on the sealed road to the Honeymoon Bay car park, marked by signs. A short walking trail then leads to the cove.
Practical information
- Park Pass required to enter Freycinet National Park and park near the bay. Purchase it at the Visitor Centre or online.
- Limited parking, especially full in summer and during Australian school holidays: early arrival recommended.
- Public toilets nearby, near Richardsons Beach campground.
- Shaded picnic area available.
- No shops on-site: bring water, snacks and sun protection before entering the park.
- No bins in some areas: "take your rubbish with you" policy applies.
Nearby attractions
- Wineglass Bay Lookout: viewpoint accessible via a maintained trail from the main park car park, with views down into the bay.
- Richardsons Beach: a long, tranquil beach minutes away, accessible from its namesake campground.
- Friendly Beaches: north of the park, a stretch of white sand buffeted by the ocean, lightly visited.
- Freycinet Lodge: accommodation within the park, a convenient base for exploring the area.
- Coles Bay: the gateway village to the park, with shops, dining and sea kayak operators.
To extend your discovery of Tasmania, you can combine Freycinet with Cataract Gorge near Launceston, the Devils @ Cradle wildlife sanctuary in the highlands, or a cruise on the Gordon River in the island's west.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
Yes. The Tasmanian Park Pass is mandatory to enter Freycinet National Park, including to park near Honeymoon Bay. It can be purchased at the Visitor Centre, online, or at Parks & Wildlife outlets.
Yes, the cove is sheltered and suitable for swimming in summer. The water remains cool year-round and there is no lifeguard supervision: exercise caution in windy conditions or if there is a swell.
Allow 1 to 2 hours to enjoy the bay, swim and take photos. Combined with Wineglass Bay Lookout and Richardsons Beach, plan for a half-day to a full day in the park.
Public transport access is very limited. A rental car is the most practical solution from Hobart or Launceston. Some seasonal shuttles serve Coles Bay, but the logistics remain challenging.
Plan your trip
Honeymoon Bay fits naturally into an itinerary combining Tasmania's east coast and interior. To build a customised trip including Freycinet and other regions of the country, explore our Australie travel ideas.
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