7 of Tassie's Best Summer Experiences (That Aren’t the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race)
Photo Credit: Dearna Bond
Finished basking in après-yacht glory? Extend your summer with 7 of Tassie’s best experiences. Whether it’s sandy shores or forested waterfalls, the island delivers unforgettable escapes for the sunny, silly season. Scroll on for our recommendations.
Tucked away in Tasman National Park, Crescent Bay is worth every step of the four-hour return walk. The trail leads past Maingon Blowhole, over rocky dolerite outcrops, and down to a beach that feels almost secret. The reward? A vast sweep of sand where you can plunge straight into the turquoise waters or launch yourself down giant dunes atop a boogie board. Time your visit on a clear day and you’ll be able to see Tasman Island and the striking cliffs of Cape Pillar in the distance.
Photo Credit: Laura Helle
Tasmania is famous for its wildlife, and summer is the perfect time to meet all the furry locals. While devils are notoriously shy, you can see them at feeding time at Devils@Cradle near Cradle Mountain or (with luck!) in the wild.
Swap sharp teeth for shaggy fringes at Highland Getaway in the Huon Valley, just 35 minutes from Hobart. Check in on Hamish and his friends (the shaggy Highland cows), before skipping to the alpaca paddock, the silky chicken coop and back again. You can either book a guided farm tour or stay overnight in the stylish homestead that’s far from ‘back to basics’.
Photo Credit: Jason Charles Hill
TLC who? Summer is a great time to chase waterfalls, hike through lush forests and mountain peaks. Russell Falls in Mount Field National Park may be petite, but it’s picture-perfect and easily reached on a short, sealed track. Step further onto the Three Falls Circuit to link Russell with Horseshoe and Lady Barron Falls along 6km of fern-lined trails.
Serious trail troopers will find Cradle Mountain a paradise, with day walks ranging from the iconic Dove Lake Circuit to climbs up Marion’s Lookout.
Photo Credit: Tourism Tasmania & Steven Pearce Photography
With warmer days, the island’s social calendar heats up too. The Hobart International (12–17 January 2026) serves up world-class tennis in the lead-up to the first Grand Slam of the Year. Up north, Festivale (30 January–1 February 2026) takes over Launceston’s City Park for three days of fine food, local tipples and live music. Meanwhile, punters flock to Party in the Paddock (5–8 February 2026) to raise their doof sticks in the name of good music and late-night revelry.
Tasmania’s smaller festivals also prove that charm isn’t measured in scale. The Cygnet Folk Festival (9–11 January 2026) fills the Huon Valley with acoustic music and storytelling, while the Clarence Jazz Festival (19–22 February 2026) eases the waterfront into a honey-like, sultry melody.
Photo Credit: Dearna Bond
Food and summer go hand in hand in Tasmania. The Wayfarer Craybake (24–25 January 2026) in Strathblane spotlights fresh crayfish straight from the pots, local wine, craft ale and live entertainment for a family-friendly riverside festival.
Wander down to Hobart’s waterfront and you’ll find Taste of Summer (27 December – 6 January 2026). So, what does it taste like? Fresh pasta from a cheese wheel at Pizzirani’s Bambino, Pollo Taco Arbol from Mother Mexico and a dozen freshly shucked oysters (just for good measure!).
Add to that microbreweries (try Little Rivers Brewery), award-winning cheeses (try Brunny Island Cheese Co.) and distilleries (try Grandvewe Tasting House) that punch well above their weight, and you’ll find Tasmania is every bit the food lover’s island in the sunny season.
Photo Credit: Revolution MTB
Summer is made for living on the edge. And longer days mean more time for high-octane wild river rides and chasing the thrill of Tassie’s wild landscapes. Take on Australia’s most celebrated wilderness river, the mighty Franklin, on a multi-day or half-day expedition of white-water thrills. Not only is the journey awe-inspiring (and humbling!), the sheer rock walls – sculpted only by wind and water – feel like a glimpse back through time.
For those who prefer two wheels over water, Blue Derby’s 125km of world-class mountain bike trails are the place to carve up the dirt. Zip under towering canopies and zip past sweeping mountain views – it’s all strikingly prehistoric.
Photo Credit: Hype TV and Aerial Vision Australia
Calm seas, clear skies and a Pennicott Wilderness Journey is a summer winner. It’s one of the best ways to explore Tasmania’s shores. Skim along the dramatic coastline in a purpose-built boat, where towering sea cliffs, caves and blowholes frame your journey. Pods of dolphins often escort the vessels, and in summer, seals and seabirds thrive along the craggy shoreline. Bruny Island and Wineglass Bay cruises come highly recommended for a memorable coastal journey.
Looking for more inspiration? Find The Best Luxury Accommodation in Tasmania.
Is summer a busy time to visit Tasmania?
Yes, summer is the island’s peak tourist season, with popular attractions, walking trails, festivals, and tours in high demand. To avoid disappointment, it’s recommended to book accommodations, car hire, and activities well in advance.
Do I need tickets for Tasmania’s Taste of Summer?
Entry to some areas of the festival is free, but special events, concerts, workshops, or VIP experiences often require tickets. Planning ahead ensures you don’t miss popular performances or activities during this busy, celebratory summer festival in Hobart.
What should I pack for summer in Tasmania?
Summer days can be warm, but mornings and evenings are often cool. Pack layers, swimwear, sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, a light rain jacket and insect repellent to stay comfortable while exploring beaches, forests and mountain trails.
Discover more for your Tasmanian adventure below!
Season-by-season guide to Tasmania: weather, wildlife, events, and the best times for beaches, hiking, road trips, and the Aurora Australis.