Maria Island National Park Travel Guide

Maria Island National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs. Read on to plan your trip and explore the island's cultural attractions, natural wonders, and outdoor activities.


Introduction to Maria Island National Park

Nestled off the east coast of Tasmania, Maria Island National Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by nature lovers and history buffs alike. With more than 20 beaches, dense forests, and diverse wildlife, the island is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Moreover, the island has a rich cultural history, from the Aboriginal tribes to European explorers.

List of Places to Visit in Maria Island National Park

Here are some of the must-visit places in Maria Island National Park:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Darlington Probation Station: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a relic of the island’s convict past. Visitors can explore the ruins of the old penitentiary and learn about the history of the convicts who lived here.
  • Fossil Cliffs: Located at the southern end of the island, the Fossil Cliffs are an important geological site, featuring 300-million-year-old fossils.
  • The Painted Cliffs: A phenomenon caused by iron oxide, the multi-colored sandstone cliffs are a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can witness a unique blend of vibrant colors during low tide.

Natural Attractions of Maria Island National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cape Barren Goose: These rare and endangered birds can be spotted in the island’s grassy plains.
  • Tasmanian Devil: Visitors can witness these nocturnal creatures and appreciate the conservation efforts to save them.
  • The Maria Island Walk: A world-famous trek, the Maria Island Walk is a four-day guided hike along the coast, mountains, and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maria Island National Park

Maria Island National Park offers a variety of hiking and biking trails for different skill levels. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Bishop and Clerk Trail: This steep climb rewards hikers with magnificent vistas of the island and Tasman Sea.
  • The Painted Cliffs Trail: A moderate 4.5-kilometer hike along the coastline that takes visitors to the famous Painted Cliffs.
  • The Fossil Cliffs Trail: A short walk to witness the ancient fossils.

Best Things to Do in Maria Island National Park: Activities and Tours

The island offers a variety of activities and tours to make the most of your visit:

  • Maria Island Walk: This award-winning tour takes visitors on a four-day trek along the coast, mountains, and forests.
  • Wildlife Tour: Visitors can observe the island’s unique wildlife, including Tasmanian devils, wombats, and kangaroos.
  • The Maria Island Cruise: Visitors can take a day-long cruise to the island and experience the island’s stunning coastline.

Week-Long Itinerary for Maria Island National Park

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Maria Island National Park:

Day Plan
1 Explore Darlington and the old probation station.
2 Hike the Bishop and Clerk Trail.
3 Take a wildlife tour.
4 Walk at your own pace around the island.
5 Hike the Fossil Cliffs Trail.
6 Take the Maria Island Walk.
7 Relax on the beach and take a dip in the ocean.

Food and Drink Scene of Maria Island National Park

The island offers a delightful food and drink scene, showcasing the local flavors and fresh seafood. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Flathead and Chips: A classic Australian dish, featuring locally caught flathead fish and chips.
  • Salmon and Fennel Salad: A healthy option with Victoria’s famous Huon Valley salmon, paired with sweet fennel.
  • Wallaby Steak: For those looking for an exotic taste, the island offers wallaby steak, a native marsupial.

Local Beverages

  • Tasmanian Wines: The island produces some of the best cool-climate wines in the country, including pinot noir and chardonnay.
  • Cascade Beer: Australia’s oldest brewery produces Cascade beer, famous for its clear and crisp taste.
  • Ginger Beer: Locally produced ginger beer is a refreshing option and adds a kick to any meal.

Where to Stay in Maria Island National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The island offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and travel style. Here are some of the most popular options:

  • Parks and Wildlife Service Campsites: For those on a budget, the Parks and Wildlife Service campsites offer a range of campsites to choose from.
  • Penitentiary Historic Site: Experience living in a refurbished convict cell in the historic Darlington Probation Station.
  • The Maria Island Walk: Eco-Camp: Eco-camp offers luxurious tents equipped with comfortable beds, hot showers, and gourmet meals prepared by experienced chefs.

What to Buy in Maria Island National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take home a piece of the island’s history and culture with these souvenirs:

  • Maria Island Whetstones: The island’s sandstone is known for its sharping capabilities, and visitors can take home maria island whetstones.
  • Handmade Crafts: The island is famous for its handmade crafts, including knitted clothing, pottery, and jewelry.
  • Local Wines: Enjoy the island’s wine during your stay and bring home a bottle or two from one of the local wineries.

Local Culture and Customs of Maria Island National Park

The island has a rich cultural history, from the Aboriginal tribes to the European explorers and the convicts who lived here. Respect for the island’s natural and cultural heritage is paramount, and visitors are encouraged to support the local community and buy local products.

Best Time to Visit Maria Island National Park

The best time to visit Maria Island National Park is from September to May, when the weather is mild, and the skies are clear, perfect for outdoor activities and soaking in the island’s beauty.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maria Island National Park

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts for visitors to Maria Island National Park:

Do:

  • Respect the island’s natural and cultural heritage.
  • Support the local community and buy local products.
  • Follow the signs and stay on the designated trails.

Don’t:

  • Litter or disturb the wildlife.
  • Smoke or make campfires on the island.
  • Bring pets or domestic animals on the island.

Safety and Health

Visitors should take necessary precautions while visiting Maria Island National Park.

Safety in Maria Island National Park

  • Visitors should watch out for snakes, ticks, and leeches while exploring the island’s forests.
  • Swimmers should avoid the rip currents and swim between the flagged areas on the beaches.

Health in Maria Island National Park

  • Visitors should carry enough water and stay hydrated while exploring the island.
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent should always be applied to avoid sunburn and insect bites.

Getting to Maria Island National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Maria Island National Park is only accessible via ferry. Visitors can take a ferry from Triabunna, Tasmania, to the island’s jetty. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Maria Island National Park

The nearest domestic airport is Hobart International Aiport, which is approximately 85 kilometers away from Triabunna, the departure point for ferries to Maria Island.

Bus Stations Near Maria Island National Park

The closest bus station is also in Hobart, which offers connections to Triabunna.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Triabunna and park their car in a designated parking lot for the duration of their visit to the island.

How to Get Around in Maria Island National Park

Maria Island National Park offers limited transportation options to visitors. Walking and cycling are the best ways to explore the island, but tours and shuttle services are also available.

Where to Go Next from Maria Island National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After visiting Maria Island National Park, visitors can explore other nearby destinations. Here are some suggested destinations for extending your trip:

  • Tasman National Park: Tasmania’s oldest and most visited national park is located on the south-eastern coast of the state.
  • Freycinet National Park: Located on Tasmania’s east coast, Freycinet National Park is famous for its pink granite mountains, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
  • Bruny Island: Located southeast of Tasmania, Bruny Island is known for its wildlife, fresh oysters, and scenic landscapes.

Conclusion

Maria Island National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs. From stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife to cultural attractions and outdoor activities, the island offers something for everyone. Follow the do’s and don’ts, respect the island’s natural and cultural heritage, and take back home a piece of the island’s unique history and culture.

The Painted Cliffs, in the Maria Island National Park, Maria Island The Painted Cliffs, in the Maria Island National Park, Maria Island