introduction
NASA: Map of Tasmanian Tribes at the time of first European contact, 19 January 2006
The east coast of Tasmania is completely different to the west.
The east coast has a calmer climate and plenty more pretty beaches all along the coastline. Heading north east from Hobart you can follow the Arthur Highway through Sorell and Copping to the Forestier Peninsula and the Tasman Peninsula where you will reach the famous but rather tragic Port Arthur.
The main industries in the area include beef, fishing, grain and wool. The east coast is also home to the capital of Tasmania, Hobart.
surfing
Cedventure: Bruny Islan, Tasmania; 2006
The main source of power here is the endless passage of S to SW swell rolling out of the Antartic. The west coast is directly in the firing line of the roaring 40's and whilst it is rarely flat it is often out of control. Weeks of onshore winds in the summer are a problem. Fortunately the sheltered bays and points of the other coasts offer reasonably uncrowded reprieve and often a very good wave in such conditions. Unlike many cold water surf destinations, you can surf in Tasmania all year round.
where to stay
Jörn Brauns: Wineglass bay; 31.08.2004
A campervan is a great way to see Tasmania and is very popular, the rental prices here are generally a bit cheaper than the mainland and it gives you freedom to make the most of your time here and take in as much as possible.
If you prefer a more fixed abode then the city of Hobart has all ranges of accommodation on offer from backers style hostels based around shared facilites and dorm type rooms right up to high end hotels for the traveller wishing to splurge. Out of the capital city you'll find a full range of rural cottages and farmstays in the country and a range of camping grounds, hotels and motels in most of the smaller towns and villages.top rated spots
- Marion Bay
- Rebounds
- The Wedge
- Shipsterns
- Swansea Point
- Buxton Point
- Little Swanport
- Otford Rivermouth
- Shelly Point
- Eaglehawk Reef
- Tesso's
- Remarkable Caves
- Kelpies
- May's Point
- Roaring Beach
- Carlton Rivermouth
- Eaglehawk Neck
- 7 Mile Beach
- 7 Mile Beach Point
- Cremorne Point
- Mays Point, Lauderdale
- Roches Beach
- Clifton Beach
- Goats Bluff
- Hope Beach