Just a 30-minute drive south of Hobart lies the gateway to a true Tasmanian icon. Bruny Island rises from the D'Entrecasteaux Channel - a popular destination known for its rugged, natural beauty, dramatic cliffs, and artisanal food.
Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge in the world-class cheese and oysters, a nature lover seeking rare wildlife, or a history buff ready to learn about the maritime heritage, Bruny is the must-add to your Tasmania itinerary. It’s a place where the pace slows down and the views open up.
To reach Bruny Island, hop aboard a scenic 20-minute ferry from Kettering to mark the official start of your adventure. Pre-purchase your SeaLink ferry ticket to use on any sailing for the next year or simply purchase upon arrival. Don't forget to book your Bruny Island accommodation and experiences to complete your island visit.
Book your trip to Bruny Island
Here are the best things to see and do on Bruny Island. Whether you are staying for a week or just visiting on a day trip, these highlights are not to be missed:
1. Head to The Neck
Discover this iconic Bruny Island landmark seeped in natural beauty and history. Climb up the 300-odd steps to Truganini Lookout and trust us, the view is worth it.
From The Neck, you can see the landscape of North and South Bruny Island, which is divided by a narrow, long isthmus. At the top of the lookout, you will find a memorial for Truganini, the valiant aboriginal woman who fearlessly fought for her people. The lookout is named after her to honour her life.
The best time to visit The Neck is around dusk when little penguins return to their burrows in sand dunes. And if you’re lucky, you may get a peek at the famed Northern Lights on a clear winter night. The Neck is around 24 km from the SeaLink Bruny Island ferry terminal.
2. Hike up Cape Bruny Lighthouse
This remote and historic lighthouse offers dramatic views of the rugged Tasmanian coastline. Climb up the wrought iron spiral stairs and step out onto the balcony to enjoy the breathtaking landscape. If you’re lucky you may catch a glimpse of the seals playing on the rocks nearby or see the mighty Humpback Whale during migration periods.
You can learn more about this historic site with Bruny Island Safari’s Cape Bruny Lighthouse Tours. Read our blog on the lighthouse keeper's legacy to learn more about the Bruny Island Safaris team and their unique connection to the area.
3. Indulge in local flavours
Bruny Island is known for its incredibly talented local producers and growers who are responsible for turning Bruny Island into a foodie haven.
Want to sample some Tasmanian cheese? Head to Bruny Island Cheese, owned by local farmer Nick Haddow, to try some of the finest artisanal cheese. Bruny Island is also known for the freshest oysters in the country. Head to Get Shucked Oysters and sample a few with a delicious glass of Tassie sparkling wine. Now, isn’t that the best way to spend a sunny day by the beach?
Bruny Island’s foodie repertoire stretches beyond cheese and oysters. It is also home to incredible wine and whiskies. To learn more about Bruny Island’s other local food & Wine producers, head to our blog on the best food and wine experiences on Bruny Island.
4. Spot the famous White Wallaby
Head to Adventure Bay to spot Bruny Island’s famous white wallabies. Due to their isolated existence and lack of predators, there’s a sizeable population on Bruny Island. Wallabies are marsupials that are most active at sunrise and sunset. The white wallabies on Bruny Island are used to human interaction so you may be able to get up close to get a picture. However, know that you’re in their home and thus you must respect their space. Don't feed them human food that’s not suitable for wildlife.
5. Escape to the South Bruny National Park
After enjoying the views from Cape Bruny Lighthouse, discover the beautiful South Bruny National Park on foot. You can also visit the little penguin colonies at Bruny Neck. Keep an eye out for echidnas, possums and other wildlife. You can also explore Adventure Bay and Jetty Beach which are great spots for a swim.
6. Spend a day at Cloudy Bay
Cloudy Bay is a hidden paradise located in the South Bruny National Park. A popular surfing destination, Cloudy Bay hosts the annual Bruny Island Surf Classic event. The calm water is also great for swimming, kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. The 5-km-long beach is a peaceful camping spot for a quiet retreat.
7. Jump aboard a cruise tour
Cruise with the award-winning Bruny Island Cruises (Pennicott Wilderness Journeys) exploring the rugged coastline of Bruny Island. On this epic 3-hour Wilderness Cruise you will spot coastal wildlife such as seals, dolphins, migrating sea birds and more. You will cruise alongside some of the island’s highest sea cliffs and listen to the ‘Breathing Rock’. Next up, you will experience the force of nature at ‘The Monument’ where the Tasman Sea meets the Southern Ocean.
8. Go birding
Go birdwatching with expert bird guides from Inala Nature Tours and discover Tasmania’s endemic birds. From 3-hour tours to multi-day tours, there’s a lot on offer depending on your interests. You will experience a walking tour of Inala Private Reserve for a chance to see the endangered Tasmanian endemic Forty spotted Pardalote or the elusive Scrubit.
9. Combine cedar sauna heat with cold ocean swims
The Bruny Island Sauna Co offers a uniquely Tasmanian wellness experience that blends nature with relaxation. This boutique sauna experience invites visitors to unwind in a timber-lined sauna before embracing the invigorating waters of the the Tasman Sea. It’s a simple yet memorable ritual - heat, refresh, repeat - that perfectly complements Bruny Island’s slower pace and natural charm, making it an ideal addition to any itinerary focused on relaxation and reconnecting with the outdoors. At the Alonnah pontoon, guests can join a shared session or book the sauna exclusively for their own group.
Start your Bruny Island story
Whether you spend your day chasing the perfect coastal photo, sampling the world-renowned local produce, or simply sitting in the stillness of a hidden bay, Bruny Island has a way of staying with you.
The ferry is ready, the oysters are fresh, and the horizon is waiting. All that’s left is for you to step across the water and discover it for yourself.
