If you’re looking for wild beauty, gourmet treats, and a good dose of Tassie charm – all packed into one incredible day – look no further than Bruny Island. Located just off the southeast coast of Tasmania, this dreamy island is a must-visit for nature lovers, foodies, and anyone chasing unforgettable views. Whether you’re cruising past sea cliffs, slurping oysters fresh from the ocean, or hiking to epic lookouts, Bruny Island is the most beautiful little spot in Tassie and a must-see on your Tasmania Itinerary!
How to Get to Bruny Island
Bruny Island is surprisingly easy to reach. Just drive 35 minutes from Hobart to Kettering, then hop on the Bruny Island ferry – a quick 15-20 minute ride across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. The ferry runs regularly throughout the day, and you can bring your car across (which I recommend so you can explore freely). If you don’t have a rental car, you can always book a guided day tour from Hobart.
Things to Do on a Day Trip to Bruny Island
One day isn’t enough to see everything, but it’s plenty of time to fall in love. Here’s how to make the most of your Bruny Island adventure:
The Neck Lookout – Iconic Bruny Views
Make your way to The Neck Lookout, the island’s most iconic view. A short climb up a wooden staircase rewards you with an incredible panorama where North and South Bruny meet. The strip of land between the two looks like a sandbar out of a drone video. If you’re lucky, you might spot penguins nesting in the dunes below!
Oysters at Get Shucked
You can’t visit Bruny without tasting Tasmania’s freshest oysters – and there’s no better place than Get Shucked. Pull up a seat at the oyster bar or grab a tray to go and enjoy them by the roadside. They’re harvested daily, shucked to order, and ridiculously delicious.
Adventure Bay & the Bruny Island Cruise
Head south to Adventure Bay, where you can join the award-winning Bruny Island Cruise for a half-day eco-adventure. You’ll zip along towering sea cliffs, duck into sea caves, and maybe even spot dolphins, seals, and migrating whales (in season). If you’re not into boats, just walking along the white-sand beach here is a treat.
Fluted Cape Walk
If you’re up for a hike that delivers jaw-dropping views with a side of heart-pumping incline, the Fluted Cape Track on Bruny Island is an absolute must. This 2.5-hour circuit walk winds through shady eucalyptus forest before climbing steeply to the dramatic sea cliffs of Fluted Cape – some of the tallest dolerite cliffs in Tasmania. From the top, you’re treated to sweeping vistas over Adventure Bay and the Tasman Sea, with the chance to spot soaring sea eagles or even migrating whales in the distance. It’s a bit of a workout, but the scenery is worth every step – just make sure you bring water, sturdy shoes, and a camera for that unbeatable rugged cliffs shot.
Cape Bruny Lighthouse Walk
At the southern tip of the island, you’ll find the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, one of the oldest in Australia. The short walk to the lighthouse offers epic coastal views – and if you join a tour like this one, you can climb inside for a 360° look at the wild Southern Ocean. It’s rugged, windswept, and totally worth it.
Tips for the Best Bruny Island Day Trip
- Catch an early ferry to make the most of the day (aim for the 7:45 or 8:35 am).
- Bring your car – public transport is non-existent and tours don’t allow as much freedom. Check out rental car options here.
- Dress in layers – Bruny’s weather can change fast, even in summer.
- Watch for wildlife – especially wallabies and penguins around dawn and dusk. You might even spot the white wallaby on your adventures around the island!
- Fuel up before crossing – the island has limited petrol stations.
Can You Stay Overnight?
Yes! Bruny Island is perfect for a day trip, but there are also plenty of cozy cottages, luxury retreats, and eco-accommodation options if you want to slow down and soak it all in (highly recommended if you have more time!)
Accommodation Recommendations:
Budget: Captain Cook Holiday Park
Mid-Range: 43 Degrees Bruny Island
Luxury: Bruny Island Oceanfront Luxe Cabin
Must-do Day Trip from Hobart
Bruny Island is the kind of place that sneaks up on you – it’s wild and delicious, rugged yet relaxing, and packed with small surprises at every turn. It’s the perfect Tasmania day trip from Hobart, especially if you love stunning scenery and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Come for the cheese, stay for the views, and leave with your camera roll full and your heart full too.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links – at no extra cost to you
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Jess at Sea 
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