Maria Island National Park is Tasmania’s only island park, six kilometres off the state’s east coast and an easy 30-minute trip from Triabunna – about one hour and fifteen minutes drive from Hobart (86 km). Encounter Maria Island is the official ferry operator to and from Maria Island National Park. See website for details.

Maria Island National Park has a rich history. Originally inhabited by the indigenous Tyreddeme people, it has also been a whaling and sealing post, penal settlement and an Italianate pleasure resort. You can explore the Island on bushwalks including Fossil Cliffs, Painted Cliffs, and the peaks of Mt Maria and Bishop and Clerk. Mountain biking or walking are the only ways to explore the island.

Basic accommodation includes bunk rooms in the Penitentiary at Darlington – a once-thriving settlement that included a vineyard, coffee palace and Grand Hotel. Camping is also available here and at free sites at French’s Farm and Encampment Cove. Abundant wildlife includes Cape Barren geese, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and wombats.

The Island’s marine reserves are rich with sea life including seahorses, sea dragons, colourful sponge gardens and jewel anemones. From the cliff tops you may also see dolphins, whales, seals and sea eagles.