The Bay of Fires is a major attraction in Tasmania and only needs a few words of explanation to describe how beautiful they are.
The Bay of Fires, located on the northeastern coast of Tasmania, is a region of beautiful white beaches and blue waters, as well as these amazing orange-hued rock formations. A lichen is responsible for the fiery color.
The colors were mesmerizing as we climbed over rocks and walked the beaches.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Bay of Fires during your Tasmanian trip.
What is the Bay of Fires
The Bay of Fires is a unique group of rocks on the Eastern Shoreline of Tasmania. The stones were named after an English navigator, Captain Tobias Furneaux, who visited the shores of Tasmania in 1773.
He saw that there were fires all along the coastline when he looked at it. The Tasmanian Aboriginals lit them.
They are now known not only for the aboriginal fire story but also for their beautiful white sands and crystal clear waters. But their most unique feature is the granite boulders covered with orange lichen.
Where is the Bay of Fires located
The Bay of Fires lies in the Skeleton Bay Reserve, 186km (2 hours drive) away from Launceston.
Binalong Bay is the closest town, located at the southernmost end of the Bay of Fires.
While the Bay of Fires is shown as a single point on a map, it actually extends along a coastline of about 50km.
The main beach area is Binalong Bay, which extends up to Eddystone Point.
You can walk to Binabong Bay. The distance you will walk depends on how fit you are.
You can either walk to Eddystone Point from town or trek for 40km through the Bay of Fires Conservation Area.
How to get to the Bay of Fires
Bay of Fires can be reached by driving along the A3 Tasmanian Highway towards St Helens and then turning off onto C850 Binalong Bay. St Helens and Binalong Bay are about a 10-minute drive apart.
It’s about a 3.5-hour drive from Hobart. Click on this link to see rental car prices and availability.
You can also take a bus by Calow’s Coaches from Launceston up to St Helens, but from St Helens, you’ll need a taxi to Binalong Bay.
There are also multi-day hikes that depart from Launceston. These tours can last from 3 to five days.
Bay of Fires Travel Tips
Here are some tips to help you plan your visit to the Bay of Fires.
The rock surface is slippery. Wear sturdy shoes.
It’s best to visit them at sunrise.
The Gardens Headland or the Boardwalk are the best places to view them if you don’t wish to walk along the coastline.
Be on the lookout for wildlife. Sea Eagles and Tasmanian Devils are among the many animals that live in the park. The morning is the best time to see wildlife.
What to do near the Bay of Fires
It may take you no time to visit the Bay of Fires, or perhaps it will take you a full day to explore them and marvel at this unique phenomenon.
If you have already made your way to Binalong Bay and are wondering what other activities you can add to the itinerary now that you’ve come all the way here, I suggest you try these.
Bay of Fires Lodge Walk
The Bay of Fires Lodge Walk is a four-day walk that takes you from Stumpy’s Point up to the Bay of Fires Lodge.
From Boulder Point, in Mt William National Park, you can hike along an easy grade 3 trail past secluded coves and lush forest. Then, follow the Ansons River.
This is the perfect hiking trip for those who do not want to sacrifice luxury. The semi-permanent dune tents are a great option for those who don’t want to skimp on luxury. You can also kayak and walk in the area at your leisure while the guide explains the history of the site.
It is an excellent way to see not only the Bay of Fires but also the stunning natural surroundings of Mount William National Park.
Take the Wukalina walk.
The Wukalina Walk is another great Bay of Fires walking tour. It is a 3-day/ 4-night guided walk by the Palawa people, who are the original inhabitants of the Bay of Fires.
Your guide will share with you their stories, perspectives, and knowledge of the land’s original owners as you walk.
The walk starts at the northern end of Mt William National Park. You will hike up to the summit of Wukalina and sleep under the stars. Take part in the traditional smoke ceremony. Participate in weaving, shell stringing, clapstick-making, and other activities.
The walk will pass Anson’s Bay, Seaton Cove, and Eddy’s Point Lighthouse before returning to Launceston by bus.
Bay of Fires Bush Retreat: Go camping
The Bay of Fires Bush retreat is a luxurious and modern bed and breakfast located in Binalong Bay, just behind Grants Lagoon. It offers a glamping experience.
Sleep under the stars in one of 10 bell tents. Enjoy the peace of the surrounding area. The hotel offers free WiFi and a bar on the terrace.
The tents are equipped with a modern design and king-size mattresses. However, they share toilets. Breakfast is included in your rate.
Visit Eddystone Lighthouse
Eddy Stone Lighthouse is a historical symbol and architectural marvel that has been operating since 1889.
You can climb up to the top of the pink granite tower and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Bay of Fires, the coast, and the lighthouse.
A picnic area and a campsite are located around the lighthouse. The lighthouse is not accessible, but the area around it is breathtaking.
Swimcart Beach to Sloop Reef Hike
From Swimcart Beach, I recommend that you walk from Sloop Reef to Swimcart Beach.
This section of a 2.4km easy walk offers some amazing views, passes hidden lagoons and coves, as well as some great spots to surf.
The hike begins at Swimcart Beach (also known as Jeannert Beach) and continues past Cosy Corner campground, Cosy Corner Beach (south or north), which is an excellent place to surf.
Swimcart Beach, Cosy Corner, and the Bay of Fires area have some of the best waves for surfing.
Before You Go
Bay of Fires is a great place to visit if you’ve had enough of the white sand beaches of Tasmania. Bay of Fires is not only a gorgeous beach but also an area with national significance.
Learn about the history and importance of the Aboriginal people in the area.
This guide will hopefully inspire you to visit the Bay of Fires, Tasmania, Australia.