2025 Rheban Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in March)

Maria Island is located off the east coast of Tasmania, about a 1.5-hour drive from Hobart, followed by a 30-minute ferry ride. This car-free, shop-free, and undeveloped island is one of Tasmania's most unique travel secrets. The island boasts spectacular natural landscapes such as the Painted Cliffs, Fossil Cliffs, and Bishop and Clerk peaks. It is also a wildlife paradise, home to wombats, kangaroos, Tasmanian devils, and a rich birdlife. Additionally, Maria Island was a penal settlement in the 19th century, and the Darlington Historic Site is now a World Heritage site, filled with colonial stories. --- 📍 Main Attractions 1. Darlington Historic Site – World Heritage Maria Island was a penal settlement in the 19th century, and Darlington Village preserves many colonial relics, including convict barracks, a brick kiln, and a commissariat store, offering a deep insight into the lives of the convicts. Recommended spots: ✅ Penal Settlement ✅ Brickworks ✅ Commissariat Store – now a visitor center --- 2. Wombats and Wildlife Paradise 🐾 Maria Island is the best place to see wombats, often found foraging leisurely along the trails and grasslands. The island is also home to other unique Tasmanian animals. Common animals: ✅ Wombats – the most easily spotted animal! We encountered 28 wombats during our island hike! ✅ Kangaroos and Wallabies – commonly seen in grassland areas ✅ Tasmanian Devils – nocturnal and harder to spot during the day ✅ Birdlife – including the Green Rosella, Wedge-tailed Eagle, and Tasmanian Nativehen --- 3. Painted Cliffs – Dreamlike Geological Wonder 🎨 This is Maria Island's most iconic natural wonder. The sea-eroded cliffs, with their unique red, yellow, and brown patterns formed by mineral deposits, look like nature's artwork! 🚶 Walking time: About 30-40 minutes one way (around 3 km round trip) 🌊 Best time to visit: Low tide, to get a close-up view of the rock patterns --- 4. Fossil Cliffs – 300 Million-Year-Old Marine Fossils 🦴 A paradise for geology enthusiasts, the cliffs are covered with 300-million-year-old marine fossils and offer stunning sea views. 🚶 Walking time: About 1 hour round trip (4.5 km) Scenery: Cliffs, sea views, vast grasslands --- 5. Bishop and Clerk – The Island's Highest Peak ⛰️ For those who love a hiking challenge, this trail takes you to the 620-meter summit, offering panoramic views of Maria Island and Tasmania's east coast. ⏳ Round trip time: About 4-5 hours Difficulty: Moderate to difficult (rock scrambling at the end) Scenery: Spectacular sea views, overlooking the Tasman Sea and Freycinet National Park --- 🛥 How to Get to Maria Island? 🚗 Step 1: Drive from Hobart to Triabunna Wharf Driving time: About 1.5 hours from Hobart Parking info: Free parking available at the wharf ⛴️ Step 2: Take the Maria Island Ferry Sailing time: About 30 minutes one way Fare: Around $50 AUD round trip (advance booking recommended) Notes: ✅ No shops or restaurants on the island, bring your own food and water! --- 🎒 Travel Tips ✔ Bring your own food and water (no shops on the island) ✔ Wear windproof and waterproof jackets (weather can be unpredictable) ✔ Wear comfortable hiking shoes (some trails are long) ✔ Bicycles are available for rent on the island, but you must take a class and pass a test before riding due to the island's varied terrain and sandy areas, so ride carefully! ✔ Best travel time: Spring and summer (October to March), when the weather is suitable for outdoor activities ✔ Pay attention to tide times (if you want to see the Painted Cliffs)

Surrounded by the blue ocean, Tasmania is not only home to a rich marine culture, but also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Tasmanians are well aware of the charm of water. They celebrate their love for the ocean with the annual traditional sailing event, the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, and enjoy the gifts of the ocean in their daily lives with the world's best seafood. Summer is undoubtedly the best time to experience all of this. Whether you're a kayaking adventurer, rafting warrior, diving expert, surfing pro, or a beginner looking to challenge yourself, you'll find your own fun and passion on this island. 01 Kayaking Tasmanians' love for water can be seen in their daily lives. They often wear a pair of Blundstone sneakers, a black down jacket in winter, and drive a Subaru with a kayak tied to the roof. Boating is a way of life here. You can take a Roaring 40s Kayaking kayak to Hobart Wharf, enjoy a traditional fish and chips meal on the river, or join Tassie Bound Adventure Tours to paddle with platypuses on the River Derwent. If you want to experience Tasmania's unique natural beauty and strong adventure atmosphere, you can also join Southern Sea Ventures' kayaking tour, paddling under the towering sea cliffs of the Turrakana/Tasman Peninsula, or follow Freycinet Adventures to paddle gracefully in Honeymoon Bay and enjoy the unique natural scenery and ecological charm of Freycinet National Park. 02 Rafting The famous American adventure magazine Outside once named Tasmania's famous Franklin River as the best rafting river in the world. Traveling along this 100 km river, which takes 7 to 11 days, you will be able to explore the World Heritage Wilderness Area, glide leisurely through tranquil gorges, and experience the thrill of rafting on rapids. Join Franklin River Rafting, Water by Nature, or Tasmanian Expeditions for a whitewater adventure and a physical and mental cleansing. If you just want to experience a short rafting trip, King River Rafting is a great option, taking you deep into the canyons of the west coast, surrounded by rainforests and precious Huon pines, to experience the mystery and grandeur of nature. 03 Snorkeling and Diving Tasmania's clear waters provide an excellent place for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts to explore. In the warm summer sun, you can put on a snorkel and mask and head to the sandstone reefs of Tinderbox, south of Hobart, or the waters near Maria Island National Park to see the marine life up close. For beginners, Tasmania also has relatively friendly surfing spots. Near Hobart, Clifton Beach offers steady left and right waves, allowing you to slowly adapt and enjoy the fun of the waves, while Park Beach is a great choice for family vacations. Bicheno on Tasmania's east coast also has a strong surfing atmosphere, with the 1 km long Redbill Beach being a great surfing experience, while Marrawah offers long-distance surfing in the westerly waves. Tasmania's highest drop surfing spot is probably Martha Lavinia Beach on the remote King Island, whose waves have been named one of the world's top ten waves by Surfing Life magazine. 📷 Photo / © Tourism Tasmania 📷 Photo / © Tourism Tasmania, Craig Faulds & Abby Hawkins 📷 Photo / © Stu Gibson

#australiatrip Maria Island, a breathtaking national park off Tasmania’s east coast, is a haven for wildlife, history, and outdoor adventure. Home to wombats, Tasmanian devils, and diverse birdlife, the island offers incredible opportunities for nature lovers. Hike to the stunning Painted Cliffs and Bishop and Clerk for dramatic coastal views, or explore the Darlington Probation Station, a UNESCO-listed convict site. With no cars and limited infrastructure, Maria Island provides a peaceful escape where visitors can hike, cycle, and camp in untouched wilderness. Its mix of history, wildlife, and scenic beauty makes it one of Tasmania’s most unique destinations.

#australiatrip Located on Maria Island off the east coast of Tasmania, the Painted Cliffs are a geological marvel that offer visitors a breathtaking sight. These stunning sandstone formations are renowned for their swirling patterns of red, orange, and yellow, created by mineral-rich water seeping through the rock over millions of years. The best time to visit is at low tide when the cliffs are fully exposed, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details and vibrant colors up close. As you explore this natural wonder, you'll also be surrounded by the island's diverse wildlife, including wombats, kangaroos, and various bird species. The Painted Cliffs are accessible via a ferry from Triabunna, and the journey itself is an adventure, offering scenic views of the Tasman Sea and the island's rugged coastline. Once you arrive on Maria Island, it's a short and pleasant walk from the Darlington settlement to the cliffs, making it an ideal day trip for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Whether you're a geology buff or simply looking to immerse yourself in Tasmania's natural beauty, the Painted Cliffs on Maria Island are a must-see destination.

#australiatrip Maria Island, off Tasmania’s east coast, is a stunning blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and history. This car-free island is a haven for hikers, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts. The dramatic Painted Cliffs and Fossil Cliffs showcase nature’s artistry, while the UNESCO-listed Darlington Probation Station offers a glimpse into Australia’s convict history. Wildlife is abundant, with wombats, kangaroos, wallabies, and rare bird species roaming freely. Visitors can explore pristine beaches, eucalyptus forests, and scenic trails like Bishop and Clerk, offering breathtaking views. Accessible via a short ferry ride, Maria Island’s serene environment and diverse attractions make it an unmissable Tasmanian destination.

#australiatrip Maria Island, located off the east coast of Tasmania, is a pristine natural haven celebrated for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich history. Accessible by ferry, the island offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, secluded beaches, and lush forests. Visitors can explore the Painted Cliffs, fossil beds, and the historic Darlington Probation Station, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Maria Island is a sanctuary for wildlife, including wombats, kangaroos, and rare birds, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. With its hiking trails, tranquil ambiance, and untouched beauty, Maria Island promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking adventure and serenity.

#australiatravel Maria Island National Park is a serene and wildlife-rich escape off Tasmania’s east coast. Accessible by ferry, the island features pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests. Visitors can explore historic sites like the Darlington Probation Station, part of the island’s rich convict history. The park is a sanctuary for native wildlife, including wombats, kangaroos, and Tasmanian devils. Popular activities include hiking, cycling, and snorkeling in the clear waters teeming with marine life. Maria Island’s peaceful ambiance, diverse landscapes, and cultural heritage make it a unique and memorable destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts.

#australiatrip Maria Island National Park, located off Tasmania’s east coast, offers an unforgettable adventure that seamlessly blends natural beauty and historical intrigue. Accessible by a scenic ferry ride from Triabunna, the island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. As you explore the island, you’ll be captivated by the stunning Painted Cliffs, with their vibrant sandstone formations, and the dramatic Fossil Cliffs, which offer a glimpse into the island’s ancient past. The island’s diverse wildlife, including wombats, kangaroos, and the elusive Tasmanian devil, adds to the charm of this pristine environment. Hiking trails such as the Bishop and Clerk track provide breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding ocean. The historic Darlington Probation Station, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a fascinating look into the island’s convict history. Whether you’re cycling through eucalyptus forests, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or simply soaking in the serene landscapes, Maria Island National Park promises a rich and rewarding experience that will leave you with lasting memories

#stylomilotrail Hiking at Maria Island was an unforgettable adventure. The trails offered stunning views of rugged coastlines, lush forests, and unique wildlife, including kangaroos and colorful bird species. I started at the visitor center, where I learned about the island's rich history and its role as a former convict settlement. The hike to the Fossil Cliffs was a highlight, showcasing ancient rock formations and breathtaking sea views. I also took a moment to relax at the pristine beaches, soaking in the serene atmosphere. The combination of natural beauty and a sense of isolation made for a perfect escape. Maria Island is truly a hidden gem for nature lovers and hikers alike!

Delighted with this amazing natural rick formation on María Island - Tasmania

#australiatrip Maria Island National Park, off Tasmania's east coast, blends history with natural beauty. Its convict ruins tell stories of its past as a 19th-century penal colony. The island showcases diverse landscapes—from rugged cliffs to sandy beaches and verdant forests—offering habitats for wombats, kangaroos, and Tasmanian devils. Visitors explore attractions like the striking Painted Cliffs and can partake in activities such as hiking, cycling, camping, and snorkeling. The Maria Island Walk, a renowned multi-day trek, allows immersive experiences in both natural wonders and historical remnants. It's a sanctuary where conservation and exploration harmonize in Tasmania's rich tapestry of landscapes.

#freehotelstay Maria Island in Tasmania is an island with abundant wildlife and spectacular views. It is a must-visit on any ones itinerary. The ferry from mainland Tasmania only takes around 40 minutes so it makes a perfect day trip. Go during sunny weather to enjoy the pristine beaches and aqua blue sea. Bring snacks and drinks with you though as there are no shops on the island.