Discover North West TasmaniaIndependent guide · Cradle Mountain, Stanley, the Tarkine & Strahan
The clear water and white sand of Boat Harbour Beach

Towns

Wynyard, Table Cape and Boat Harbour

Some of the prettiest coast in Tasmania, between Burnie and Stanley.

Wynyard

A relaxed coastal town at the mouth of the Inglis River, with Burnie Airport nearby.

Table Cape

A flat-topped volcanic headland just north of Wynyard. Highlights:

  • Table Cape Lighthouse — tours run at times.
  • Table Cape lookout — views along the coast.
  • Tulip fields — in spring (around late September to October), the tulip farm creates a famous patchwork of colour.
View east along the coast from Table Cape near Wynyard
The coast from Table Cape. Photo: Steven Penton from Bakers Beach, Tasmania Australia / CC BY 2.0

Fossil Bluff

A coastal cliff near Wynyard with ancient fossils visible in the rock layers.

Boat Harbour Beach

A sheltered bay with white sand and clear water — one of Tasmania’s best swimming beaches in summer.

Rocky Cape National Park

Rugged coastline, heathland and caves with Aboriginal significance. Walks range from short to half-day.

Rugged coastline of Rocky Cape National Park
Rocky Cape National Park. Photo: Robyn Jay from Sydney, Australia / CC BY-SA 2.0

Planning a coastal day

Start at Table Cape lookout in the morning, visit the tulip farm in season, explore Fossil Bluff at low tide, then swim or picnic at Boat Harbour Beach. Finish with a walk at Rocky Cape National Park.

Getting there

Wynyard is about 20 minutes west of Burnie. Table Cape is a short drive north of Wynyard, and Boat Harbour Beach is about 15 minutes further west. Rocky Cape National Park is roughly half an hour beyond Boat Harbour.

Frequently asked questions

When are the tulips at Table Cape?

Usually around late September to October; check the farm’s opening dates.

Is Boat Harbour Beach good for swimming?

Yes, it is one of the safer swimming beaches in Tasmania in summer.

Do I need a parks pass for Rocky Cape?

Yes.

Is the Table Cape Lighthouse open?

Tours run at times; check current schedules.

What is Fossil Bluff?

A coastal cliff near Wynyard where fossils can be seen in the rock layers.