What to do in Strahan Tasmania
Founded in 1881, Strahan is located in the breathtaking and rugged isolation of Tasmania’s North West. Once a port for a thriving mining industry in and around the region, it’s economy is now fuelled primarily by tourism. Strahan is a wonderful place to explore the West coast of the state, which features many attractions such as the beautiful beaches and the untouched wilderness of the world heritage area.
Daily cruises depart from the beautiful Macquarie Harbour… to locations such as Hell’s Gates
If you’re looking to explore the natural wonders of Tasmania’s World Heritage Area, Strahan is a great place to base yourself. There are daily cruises to destinations such as Sarah Island, Hell’s Gates and the Gordon River. Cruises depart from the beautiful Macquarie harbour and give an insight into the town’s past as a harbour for the Sarah Island penal colony – which predates Port Arthur. It was a very harsh settlement, and many convicts tried to escape, making for some very interesting stories which you are sure to hear on your visit to Strahan.
The Henty Dunes near Strahan can be up to 30m high and extend along the coast for 15km
Ocean Beach is also not far from Strahan and offers a glimpse of the power of the roaring 40s winds that cross the Southern Ocean from Antarctica and South America. This 36km long stretch of wind-swept beach exemplifies Tasmania’s natural raw beauty. The Henty Dunes outside Strahan are another coastal attraction, with some up to 30m tall, they extend along the coast for 15km.
Randy Curwen from the Chicago Tribune voted Strahan the “Best Little Town in the World” so if you’re planning a trip to this amazing part of the world we recommend you stay for more than one night!
Things to do around Strahan Tasmania
The Ship That Never Was
Fun for the whole family – Tasmania’s longest running play tells the hilarious story of some wayward convict shipwrights and their escape from Sarah Island. Located at the Strahan Amphitheatre. Runs daily from September to May at 5:30pm. Prices $20 Adults, $15 Concession, $10 Students, $2 Children (12 years and under).
Cruises
WORLD HERITAGE CRUISES and GORDON RIVER CRUISES both run cruise daily from Strahan to various destinations including Hell’s Gates, Sarah Island and the Gordon River.
West Coast Wilderness Railway
Take a steam train ride through stunning rainforests and scenic gorges. The railway only runs for a limited period between December and April so please check their website for availability and pricing.
Hogarth Falls
This easy walk will take less than an hour and will take you through a forest of towering gums, sassafras, myrtle and leatherwood to a tranquil waterfall. Great for stretching your legs after a long day’s drive. Access if from the People’s Park Strahan via the the Esplanade.
Strahan Tasmania Campervan & Motorhome Parks
BIG4 Strahan Holiday Park
For a memorable family beachside vacation, BIG4 Stanley Holiday Park is an excellent choice. They offer powered and unpowered sites.
The park provides a convenient and welcoming environment for families to enjoy their stay. Located: 8-10 Innes Street (West) Strahan 7468
Strahan Beach Tourist Park
Located next to Strahan Beach this park offers a range of accommodation options including cabins as well as powered and unpowered sites suitable for campers a motor-homes. Pets are also welcome. Located at 1 Beach Street, Strahan.
Travel Times & Distances to Strahan Tasmania
From Launceston: app. 3 hours 40 minutes – 272kms
From Hobart: app. 4 hours 15 minutes – 300kms