Maria Island in Tasmania

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Welcome to Adventure Fix, the newsletter that helps you discover extraordinary journeys and experiences across the globe. 

Today, we’re heading to Maria Island, Australia to search for iconic Australian wildlife and soak in the natural beauty of this place.

This small island on the East Coast of Tasmania is like a version of Tassie without all the people.

It has everything you’d expect from this part of the world, plenty of wild animals, convict heritage sites, and great outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and camping.

Maria Island, Tasmania

Maria Island is a pristine sanctuary where you can camp under the star-studded sky, surrounded by the gentle munching of wombats and the occasional rustle of kangaroos.

This is all thanks to conservation efforts to save declining populations on the mainland.

Maria Island isn't just a sanctuary; it's a bustling haven for native animals like pademelons, Cape Barren geese, and even the elusive Tasmanian devil.

One of the highlights and probably the most photographed site on the island is the Painted Cliffs.

These cliffs stand frozen in time, resembling a blazing inferno captured within the sandstone canvas.

Flowing groundwater, rich in iron, has intricately woven streaks of vivid orange, red, and purple hues into these majestic cliffs.

Sculpted by the Tasman Sea, a concave ledge adds to the allure of this natural wonder.

Exposed only two hours before and after low tide, catching the cliffs in all their glory requires some planning. Check the tide table online or at the visitor center before you go.

Maria Island isn't just a destination; it's an immersive journey into nature's wonder.

Explore More

If you would like to learn more, here are some links you can check out to get more information about the Mardi Himal Trek.

• How to Visit Maria Island, Tasmania (article)

• The Maria Island Walk (video)

How to Visit Maria Island in Tasmania

Getting to Maria Island is as easy as a 30-minute ferry ride from the small town of Triabunna.

The only vehicles on the island belong to the Park Service, so to get around you’ll need to walk or bike.

While day trips from Hobart are doable, staying overnight is the ultimate way to witness the island's nocturnal wonders.

Once the day trippers leave, things quiet down and the nocturnal critters come out to explore.

There are only two accommodation options, camping or staying in the old penitentiary, either one will create a lasting memory.