Fun Things To Do In Hobart – Your Ultimate Guide To Tasmania’S Wild
You’ve probably heard that Hobart is a charming city with a world-class art museum and a fantastic Saturday market. While that’s all true, you might be wondering if it’s just another city break destination. For an outdoor adventurer like you, is there something more?
We promise you, Hobart is so much more than its beautiful harbour. It’s the ultimate basecamp for some of Australia’s most rugged and breathtaking wilderness. This city is the gateway to towering dolerite cliffs, ancient forests, and unique wildlife you won’t find anywhere else on the planet.
In this guide, we’ll skip the usual tourist traps. We’re diving straight into the real, wild heart of Tasmania, showing you all the fun things to do in Hobart that will get your boots dirty and your spirit soaring. We’ll cover how to tackle the iconic kunanyi / Mount Wellington, explore dramatic coastlines by kayak and foot, and find the best spots for campers and RVers to settle in for an adventure.
Conquer kunanyi / Mount Wellington: Hobart’s Majestic Backdrop
Looming over the city, kunanyi / Mount Wellington is a constant, breathtaking reminder of the wildness at Hobart’s doorstep. Reaching its 1,271-metre summit is a non-negotiable for any outdoor enthusiast. But don’t underestimate it; this mountain creates its own weather system, and a sunny day in the city can mean snow and gale-force winds at the top.
This is where your adventure truly begins. The mountain is crisscrossed with trails for all fitness levels, from gentle strolls through temperate rainforest to challenging scrambles over dolerite boulder fields. This is one of the essential fun things to do in Hobart tips: always be prepared for four seasons in one day.
Choosing Your Trail
There are dozens of ways up the mountain, but a few stand out for their scenery and challenge.
- The Organ Pipes Track: This is arguably the most iconic hike. It’s a moderate 9km return walk that takes you directly beneath the massive dolerite columns that give the track its name. The views are simply staggering.
- Zig Zag Track: For a direct and challenging ascent, the Zig Zag Track is a leg-burner that rewards you with incredible views as you climb. It’s steep, but the sense of accomplishment at the summit is immense.
- Pipeline Track: If you’re looking for a gentler, more sheltered walk, this relatively flat track follows a historic water pipeline through beautiful fern gullies. It’s perfect for a less strenuous day or when the weather on the summit is poor.
Weather-Proofing Your Summit Bid
One of the most common problems with Fun things to do in Hobart, especially on the mountain, is the unpredictable weather. The summit can be 10°C colder than the city and is often shrouded in cloud or battered by wind, even in summer.
Before you go, check the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) forecast specifically for the kunanyi / Mount Wellington summit. Pack layers, including a Merino wool base layer, a fleece mid-layer, and a high-quality waterproof and windproof shell jacket like an Arc’teryx Beta AR. A warm beanie and gloves are essential, no matter the season.
Coastal Exploration: Sea Kayaking and Hiking the Tasman Peninsula
Hobart’s connection to the sea is undeniable. The deep blue waters of the Derwent Estuary and the wild Southern Ocean offer a completely different kind of adventure. Here, you can paddle beneath some of the tallest sea cliffs in the Southern Hemisphere and hike trails with jaw-dropping coastal views.
This is a core part of any comprehensive Fun things to do in Hobart guide. The coastline is raw, powerful, and teeming with life, from seals and dolphins to migrating whales in the right season.
Paddling the Derwent Estuary
For a unique perspective of the city and its bridge, rent a sea kayak or join a guided tour. Paddling from the city beaches gives you a seal’s-eye view of the waterfront and the towering mountain behind it. It’s a fantastic way to spend a half-day and get your arms working.
Look for local outfitters that practice sustainable Fun things to do in Hobart, using local guides and respecting wildlife distance regulations. Always wear your provided PFD (Personal Flotation Device) and listen to your guide’s safety briefing.
Day Hikes on the Tasman Peninsula
A 90-minute drive from Hobart, the Tasman Peninsula is a must-do. It’s home to the famous Three Capes Track, but you don’t need to do the full multi-day trek to experience its magic. Day hikes to Cape Hauy or Cape Raoul offer some of the most dramatic coastal scenery in Australia.
Be prepared for exposed trails with steep drop-offs. Wear sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, like the Salomon X Ultra 4, and carry at least 2 litres of water, snacks, and a map. A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), such as a Garmin inReach Mini, is a smart addition to your pack for these remote coastal areas.
Wildlife Encounters: Where to Find Tasmania’s Unique Creatures
Tasmania is an ecological treasure chest, a real-life “ark” of creatures found nowhere else. While exploring, you have a genuine chance of seeing Tasmanian devils, wombats, pademelons, and echidnas in their natural habitat. The key is knowing where and when to look, and always observing from a respectful distance.
Bruny Island for Bennett’s Wallabies and Birdlife
A short ferry ride from Kettering (south of Hobart), Bruny Island is a wildlife haven. It’s famous for its white Bennett’s wallabies, which you can often spot grazing in the fields around the Fluted Cape trail in the late afternoon. The island is also a paradise for bird watchers, with opportunities to see the endangered forty-spotted pardalote.
Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary
For a guaranteed encounter and a chance to support vital conservation work, visit Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary. This isn’t a zoo; it’s a rescue centre for injured and orphaned wildlife. Their knowledgeable guides provide incredible insight into the challenges facing Tasmanian devils and other native species. It’s an educational and inspiring experience that directly contributes to local conservation.
Your Guide to Fun Things to Do in Hobart for Campers and RVers
For those of us traveling in a campervan, RV, or with a tent, Hobart is wonderfully accommodating. It provides the perfect blend of city convenience and easy access to nature, making it an ideal hub for stocking up and planning your next leg of the journey.
Understanding how to Fun things to do in Hobart while living on the road is key. Knowing where you can legally and safely park for the night, find fresh water, and dispose of waste makes the entire experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Top-Rated Caravan Parks Near Hobart
Staying at a caravan park gives you access to powered sites, hot showers, laundry, and camp kitchens. They are a great option for your first few nights to get settled.
- Discovery Parks – Hobart: Located on the eastern shore, it offers great views back to the city and kunanyi / Mount Wellington. It’s well-equipped and a reliable choice.
- BIG4 Hobart Airport Tourist Park: Convenient for those flying in or out, this park is modern, clean, and has all the facilities you’d expect from a top-tier park.
Freedom Camping: Know the Rules
Tasmania has some fantastic free or low-cost camping spots, but it’s crucial to follow the rules. Use apps like WikiCamps or CamperMate to find designated areas. Never camp where signs prohibit it, and always be fully self-contained. This means having your own toilet and the capacity to hold all your grey and black water. Disposing of waste improperly is one of the quickest ways to ruin these beautiful spots for everyone.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Adventures: Best Practices for Exploring Hobart
The wild places around Hobart are precious and fragile. As outdoor adventurers, it’s our responsibility to protect them. The benefits of Fun things to do in Hobart are intrinsically linked to the health of its environment, so practicing responsible travel is paramount.
This isn’t just a list of rules; it’s a mindset. Following these eco-friendly Fun things to do in Hobart principles ensures that the wilderness we enjoy today will be just as stunning for future generations.
Leave No Trace Principles
The seven Leave No Trace principles are the gold standard for outdoor ethics. Always:
- Plan Ahead and Prepare
- Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
- Dispose of Waste Properly (Pack It In, Pack It Out)
- Leave What You Find
- Minimize Campfire Impacts (Use designated fire pits and obey all fire bans)
- Respect Wildlife
- Be Considerate of Other Visitors
Supporting Local and Eco-Conscious Outfitters
When you book a tour or buy gear, choose local Tasmanian businesses that have a proven commitment to sustainability. Look for certifications like Ecotourism Australia. By investing your money in these companies, you support the local economy and encourage responsible business practices across the board.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fun Things to Do in Hobart
What is the best time of year for outdoor activities in Hobart?
Summer (December to February) offers the warmest and most stable weather, making it ideal for hiking and water activities. However, autumn (March to May) is also fantastic, with fewer crowds, calm weather, and beautiful foliage. Be prepared for cold and unpredictable weather any time of year, especially at higher altitudes.
Do I need to rent a car to explore the outdoors around Hobart?
While some areas like kunanyi / Mount Wellington have shuttle bus options, renting a car (or having your own campervan/RV) is highly recommended. It gives you the freedom to explore trailheads, coastal towns, and national parks at your own pace. A standard 2WD vehicle is sufficient for most of the adventures listed here.
Are there any dangerous animals I should be aware of while hiking?
Tasmania is home to three species of venomous snakes: the tiger snake, copperhead, and white-lipped snake. They are generally shy and will avoid humans. To stay safe, wear sturdy boots and gaiters in bushy areas, stick to marked trails, and never try to approach or handle a snake. Carry a compression bandage and know how to use it in the unlikely event of a bite.
Can I drink the water from streams and rivers in Tasmania?
Tasmania’s water is famously clean, but it’s not always safe to drink untreated. Even pristine-looking water can contain bacteria like Giardia. The safest practice is to always treat water before drinking, either by boiling it for at least one minute or using a reliable water filter like the Sawyer Squeeze or purification tablets.
Hobart is far more than a city; it’s a launchpad into a world of rugged adventure. It’s a place where you can summit a mountain in the morning and be back in your campervan by the sea for sunset. By preparing properly, respecting the wild, and embracing the elements, you’ll discover an outdoor playground that will capture your heart.
Now, check your gear, plan your route, and get ready to explore. Tasmania is waiting for you.
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