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Top 10 things to do on Bruny Island

Discover popular things to do on Bruny Island, southern Tasmania. 

lunawuni / Bruny Island is a treasure trove of natural beauty, abundant wildlife, talented local producers, and captivating history.

Bruny makes a memorable day trip, but if you stay longer, you’ll discover many more of her secrets. Catch the ferry across from Kettering, or you can drive your car on for the easy 20-minute journey.

Bruny Island is a place where the rugged coastal landscapes seamlessly blend with gourmet indulgence. As you step (or drive) onto this island, you embark on a journey that promises breathtaking vistas, encounters with native wildlife, unique accommodation getaways, and a gastronomic adventure tantalising the taste buds.

Bruny Island Neck, Truganini Lookout 📷 Darren Wright
Bruny Island Neck, Truganini Lookout 📷 Darren Wright

1. Visit Dennes Point, North Bruny Island

Often overlooked but never disappointing, Dennes Point at North Bruny Island is a short turnoff from the Main Rd. Keep an eye out for the signs!

Here, time seems to slow down, inviting visitors to unwind on the tranquil beaches while soaking in the breathtaking views of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel.

One attraction of Dennes Point is a coffee or meal at the Bruny Island Wild Cafe (check the website for opening hours). The cafe offers delicious fare and spectacular panoramic views above the waterfront.

Dennes Point, Bruny Island 📷 Darren Wright
Dennes Point, Bruny Island 📷 Darren Wright

2. Taste The Incredible Local Bounty

Bruny Island is pretty well known for its excellent local produce. Indulge in fresh oysters and seafood, artisan cheese, chocolate and fudge, honey, berries, and more.

If you fancy a tipple, head to Bruny Island Premium Wines or Hotel Bruny. There are also some fantastic foodie tours available; check out the Bruny Island Traveller Day Tour and the Bruny Island Foods, Sightseeing & Lighthouse Tour.

Get Shucked, Bruny Island Oysters. Image credit: Adam Gibson
Get Shucked, Bruny Island Oysters. Image credit: Adam Gibson
The Bruny Baker. Image credit: James Vodicka
The Bruny Baker. Image credit: James Vodicka
Sunset at The Neck, Bruny Island. Image Credit: @whoishollyjean
Sunset at The Neck, Bruny Island. Image Credit: @whoishollyjean

3. Climb Bruny Island Neck to Truganini Lookout

The isthmus of land connecting the north and south of Bruny is spectacular. Climb the steps to Truganini Lookout and enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the landscape.

The Neck Game Reserve is an important habitat for wildlife—at dusk, wait on the viewing platforms and watch little penguins and short-tailed shearwaters return to their burrows (best viewed September to February).

4. Stop at Two Tree Point and Resolution Creek

Take a moment to stop at Two Tree Point, Resolution Creek on your visit to Adventure Bay. 

Listed on Tasmania’s Heritage Register, Two Tree Point has historical and cultural significance. 

Known as “Watering Place” on the charts of Captain Tobias Furneaux (Adventure, 1773) and Captain James Cook (Resolution 1777), this waterway, from which early explorers replenished their supplies of fresh water, was later named Resolution River by Captain William Bligh during his visit on Bounty in 1788. 

Captain Bligh’s next visit (Providence 1792) was accompanied by Lieutenant George Tobin, the expedition’s Principal Artist. Of the seven paintings executed by Tobin in Adventure Bay, one depicted the area now known as Two Tree Point. These two trees depicted by Tobin still stand today, making them at least 250 years old.

A further painting of a bark shelter was also cited in the area, and Tobin’s journal provides information on the diet of the indigenous inhabitants and their shelter construction. Aboriginal artefacts have been found in this area.

Two Tree Point, Bruny Island 📷 Darren Wright
Two Tree Point, Bruny Island 📷 Darren Wright

5. Relax at Adventure Bay

Relax at peaceful Adventure Bay, like something out of a dream. This is the perfect spot to settle in with a good book. Admire the stunning colour of the water, walk along the pristine sand, and maybe even go for a paddle if it’s warm enough.

Find the globe sculpture and see if you can spot the whales in it (and perhaps real whales migrating out in the distance).

Adventure Bay, Bruny Island 📷 Darren Wright
Adventure Bay, Bruny Island 📷 Darren Wright
Bruny Island Cruises - Pennicott Wilderness Journeys. Image credit: Tourism Tasmania & Joe Shemesh
Bruny Island Cruises - Pennicott Wilderness Journeys. Image credit: Tourism Tasmania & Joe Shemesh

6. Take a half-day Eco-Cruise

Spot dolphins, seals, seabirds, and maybe even whales on an excellent three-hour exploration of Bruny’s rugged southern coastline.

A wilderness tour with Bruny Island Cruises gets you right in the thick of Bruny’s spectacular scenery, with epic sea cliffs, intriguing sea caves, towering crags, and a blowhole that seems to be alive.

Cape Bruny Lighthouse. Image credit: Jess Bonde
Cape Bruny Lighthouse. Image credit: Jess Bonde

7. Tour the Cape Bruny Lighthouse

The charming Cape Bruny Lighthouse was first lit in 1838 and only retired in 1996, when a new solar-powered light was erected nearby. Join Bruny Island Lighthouse Tours to climb the winding steps to the top, enjoy the views from the balcony, and hear stories about what life was like living and working in the lighthouse.

8. Explore the South Bruny National Park

Explore Bruny’s beautifully preserved natural environment in the South Bruny National Park. Discover giant sea cliffs, walk along long sandy beaches, enjoy a range of bushwalks, explore coastal heathland and towering forests, and tour a historic lighthouse. The park is also a haven for several rare and endangered animal and plant species.

Bruny Island Long Weekend. Image credit: Alice Hansen
Bruny Island Long Weekend. Image credit: Alice Hansen
Bruny Island. Image Credit @lucychampion_

9. Surf at Cloudy Bay

Cloudy Bay feels worlds away; a hidden gem in the South Bruny National Park. As well as living up to its name in the cloud stakes, it can also get pretty windy, and is a popular spot with experienced surfers. Stroll dramatically along the 5km long beach and enjoy the wild remoteness.

The ‘loo with a view’ is a quirky surprise—we’ll let you find it for yourself! You can camp at Cloudy Corner or The Pines, or treat yourself to a little getaway in the Cloudy Bay Cabin, Cloudy Bay Beach House or Cloudy Bay Villa.

10. Walk to Cape Queen Elizabeth

The scenic walk to Cape Queen Elizabeth (3hrs/12km return) is a favourite of many. Trek through bush, wander over sand dunes, walk along a remote beach, explore rocky crevices, and spot wildlife on your adventure.

The rocky archway at Mars Bluff is a fun highlight. Enjoy amazing views across The Neck and out towards Adventure Bay. If you’d like a guide, Bruny Island Safaris offer a bushwalking tour (including some yummy food tastings).

Mars Bluff, Cape Queen Elizabeth Track, Bruny Island. Image credit: Jess Bonde
Mars Bluff, Cape Queen Elizabeth Track, Bruny Island. Image credit: Jess Bonde
White Bennett's Wallaby. Image Credit @dana_young93

11. Spot a White Wallaby

Bruny Island’s famous white wallabies like to hang out around the Adventure Bay entrance to the South Bruny National Park.

They are pretty special, with a reasonably healthy population on Bruny due to their isolation, and likely the only place on earth where you can spot one. 

A genetic defect in the Bennett’s Wallaby has thrown off the balance of melanin in these little marsupials causing them to become albino. But a lack of predators on Bruny Island helps these albino wallabies to survive, and locals aid in their survival. 

Admire their unique beauty, but remember that they are wild animals, so don’t feed them human food and respect their space.

12. Indulge your Inner Birder

Bird enthusiasts are itching to go twitching on Bruny Island, where you can go bird-watching with specialist guides.

All twelve of Tasmania’s endemic birds can be found on the island, and Bruny is a sanctuary for Forty Spotted Pardalotes and Swift Parrots. The celebrated Bruny Island Bird Festival is on every two years.

Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo, Calyptorhynchus funereus. Image credit: Robert King Visuals
Yellow-tailed Black Cockatoo, Calyptorhynchus funereus. Image credit: Robert King Visuals

Bruny Island Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

A day on Bruny Island offers a diverse range of activities. Begin by exploring The Neck, a narrow isthmus connecting North and South Bruny, for breathtaking panoramic views. Visit the Cape Bruny Lighthouse, indulge in local gourmet treats at Bruny Island Cheese Co., and take a nature walk in the South Bruny National Park. Don’t forget to embark on a Bruny Island Cruises tour for a chance to spot wildlife like seals and dolphins.

Absolutely! A day trip to Bruny Island is well worth it. Despite its compact size, the island boasts stunning landscapes, rich wildlife, and unique culinary experiences. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, Bruny Island offers a perfect day-trip destination from Hobart. The combination of natural beauty and local delights makes it a memorable experience.

While a day trip is sufficient to capture the essence of Bruny Island, those with more time can explore further. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast or wish to delve deeper into the island’s culinary scene, consider spending two or three days. This allows for a more leisurely exploration of the hiking trails, beaches, and local producers, providing a more immersive experience.

Bruny Island is renowned for its delicious local produce. Don’t miss the chance to taste the award-winning cheeses at Bruny Island Cheese Co. The island is also famous for its fresh oysters, artisan chocolates, and premium wines.

Yes, there are several guided tours available on Bruny Island. Bruny Island Cruises offer wildlife and wilderness adventures, showcasing the island’s rugged coastline and abundant marine life. Additionally, local operators provide eco-friendly tours, bushwalks, and gourmet food tours. These guided experiences offer insights into the island’s natural wonders and ensure you make the most of your visit.

The best time to visit Bruny Island depends on your preferences. Summer (December to February) offers warm weather and is ideal for beach activities. Autumn (March to May) brings milder temperatures and stunning foliage, making it a great time for hiking. Winter (June to August) has its charm with dramatic coastal scenes, while spring (September to November) showcases vibrant wildflowers. Consider your preferred activities and weather conditions when planning your visit to Bruny Island.

How to get to Bruny Island

Bruny Island is around 30 minutes drive south of Hobart, Tasmania. Head down the Channel Highway to Kettering, then turn left into Ferry Road. SeaLink Bruny Island Ferries depart every 20 minutes (except from 12.30pm to 1.20pm) so there’s no real need to time your departure around the ferry. No booking is required, but don’t be surprised if there is a queue for the ferry during busy periods.

Bruny Island Ferry. Image credit: Jess Bonde
Bruny Island Ferry. Image credit: Jess Bonde

Bruny Island Accommodation Guide

Find the perfect place to stay on Tasmania’s Bruny Island.

Bruny Island offers a diverse range of accommodation options, each providing a comfortable and immersive way to explore all that Bruny has to offer.

Bruny Island Cruises Seafood Restaurant. Image Credit: Adam Gibson
Get Shucked - Bruny Island Oysters. Image Credit: Adam Gibson

Gourmet Guide to Bruny Island

Bruny Island is not just a place of natural beauty, it is also a foodie haven.

Read our Gourmet Foodie Guide to Bruny Island.

Explore Bruny Island, Tasmania

Bruny Island, Tasmania

Share your Bruny Island Adventures with us!

Share your snaps by tagging @hobartandbeyond and using #HobartandBeyond on Instagram – we’ll share our favourite pics on social media and in the blog. 

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