Port Arthur, in Tasmania, is regarded as one of the leading attractions of the state and provides an array of activities to ensure visitors are entertained. It is suggested to allocate 2-3 entire days to investigate the region, but if time constraints exist, it’s recommended to at least explore one or two of the attractions.
Situated 90 minutes south of Hobart, Port Arthur is famed for being the location of Australia’s most infamous correctional facility. Nevertheless, it frequently needs to be noticed that the region is also home to numerous other attractions.
In Port Arthur, Tasmania, tourists can snap beautiful pictures in fields of lavender, navigate hidden caves on the Tasman Peninsula, observe the loftiest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere, and walk through prestigious national parks.
Proceed with reading to unearth detailed insights on activities, places to stay, ideal times for visits, and the extraordinary historical importance of this unique site.
Subsequently, we’ll explore the top 5 attractions in Port Arthur, Tasmania.
Discover history at the Port Arthur Historic Site
One of the key factors contributing to the large influx of tourists to Port Arthur is the Port Arthur Historic Site. This place functioned as a penal settlement in Australia and was famous for confining formidable lawbreakers, rendering escape nearly unfeasible.
The Port Arthur Historic Sites have earned a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage list due to their importance in the history of Australian convicts. These sites are deemed among the most vital attractions in Tasmania.
The Port Arthur site encompasses 40 hectares and showcases over 30 historical structures, remnants, gardens, and pathways. The admission fee grants access to the Port Arthur Gallery, which hosts interactive displays shedding light on the historical relevance of this place.
Upon reaching, visitors can inquire at the visitor centre about the timings for the complimentary 40-minute introductory tour and 20-minute harbour cruise.
The Port Arthur Historic Site also offers extra tours that are suggested for a thorough exploration. These encompass a paranormal investigation experience, an escape from the Port Arthur Tour, and a ghost tour of the premises post-sunset.
The Ghost Tour presents a guided journey through one of Australia’s most eerie sites, spanning 1.5 hours.
Experience Port Arthur Lavender Farm
Port Arthur Lavender Farm is a recommended destination for visitors to the Tasman Peninsula who want to experience the beauty of Lavender fields in southern France.
Long Bay offers 7 hectares of lavender fields, lakes, rainforests, and an oceanfront location, making it a compelling destination.
The best part is that visiting is free.
Experience a stroll through the rows of flowers and capture a charming photo before indulging in lavender-flavoured treats at the on-site cafe.
Visit the visitor centre to explore the various uses of this diverse flower and purchase essential oils produced on the farm.
To get to The Lavender Farm, located at 6555 Arthur Hwy, Port Arthur, you can take a 5 km, 7-minute drive from the Port Arthur Historic Site. It is approximately a 90-minute drive from Hobart.
When visiting Port Arthur on a day trip from Hobart, taking a guided tour that includes stops at both the Port Arthur Historic Site and the Lavender Farm is recommended.
Visit the remarkable cave and be amazed
The Remarkable Cave, located on the coast, lives up to its name as it is a unique tunnel-like formation worth visiting.
This location can be found at the water’s edge below a towering cliff face, having been naturally eroded by the sea.
It is recommended to plan your visit during low tide to explore the cave on foot and capture the best photos. You can check the tide times here.
Visitors can enjoy a great view of the cave’s opening regardless of when they arrive. However, it is essential to note that there are 115 steps to climb down (and back up), which may become slippery during rainy weather.
To reach The Remarkable Cave on the Tasman Peninsula, Port Arthur, drive 7.5 km south of the Port Arthur Historic Site on Safety Cove Road and follow the road signs.
You can also join a guided tour to see and learn about the remarkable cave and many other natural features along the Tasman Peninsula.
Experience a Tasman Island Cruise
Experience amazing views of the Southern Hemisphere’s most prominent sea cliffs by embarking on a wilderness cruise along the Tasman Peninsula.
The 3-hour excursion offers a scenic cruise along the coast from Port Arthur to Eaglehawk Neck for a memorable experience.
Notable features include the Cape Pillar’s tallest vertical cliffs, numerous waterfalls, sea caves, and natural rock formations.
To get there, you can start your journey at the Tasman Island Cruises Booking Centre, located at 6961 Arthur Highway, only 6 km away and a 10-minute drive from the Port Arthur Historic Site.
Cruise times are as follows: Morning Cruise (All Year): Check-in by 9.15 a.m. for a cruise from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Afternoon Cruise (1 Dec to 28 Apr): Check-in by 1.15 p.m. for a cruise from 2 pm to 5 pm.
The cost for adults is $145, and for children (3-16 yrs), it is $90.
Determining the best time to visit Port Arthur
Port Arthur is open to visitors year-round, but crowds are significantly decreased during the winter months (June-September) if you prefer a quieter experience.
However, many of the local experiences in Madrid are outdoor activities, so visiting during the summer months (December – February) may enhance your trip.
Tasmania’s weather is known for its frequent changes, especially in the Tasman Peninsula/Port Arthur area. It is expected to experience high winds, heavy rainfall, and cold temperatures, even during the summer. It is advisable always to be prepared with warm layers and a raincoat.
Find accommodations in Port Arthur, Tasmania
Arrive stylishly by seaplane
Experience a unique perspective of Port Arthur and the entire southeast coast of Tasmania with a 1.5-hour seaplane tour departing from Hobart.
From Hobart’s Franklin Wharf, located in the centre of town, you can embark on an aerial journey over the three capes of the Tasman Peninsula before arriving at Port Arthur Bay.
During your trip, a tour guide will be on board to provide information about the historical significance and terrain and ensure that you see the most prominent sea cliffs in Tasmania.
During the return trip, the flight will pass above the striking capes and provide a breathtaking view of Mt Wellington and Hobart.
Explore the wonders of Tasman National Park
The Tasman National Park in Port Arthur offers a unique experience with its towering forests and Australia’s highest sea cliffs, allowing visitors to appreciate the raw power of nature.
Tasman National Park is well-known in adventure sports, with surfers attracted to Shipsterns Bluff for its massive waves and rock climbers from around the globe, including myself, aspiring to conquer the iconic Totem Pole near Cape Hauy.
Visitors can take a day walk along the cliff tops at either Cape Hauy or Cape Raoul, or they can opt for the entire Three Capes Track for a more extended, multi-day adventure.
To reach the park, you can access most of its views and attractions on the Tasman Peninsula side, which spans both the Tasman and Forestier Peninsulas at Port Arthur.
The most popular viewpoints can be found near Pirates Bay, and to reach them, drive 19 km north from Port Arthur Historic Site for about 20 minutes, then follow any signs that catch your interest.
