Things to do around Bruny Island

bruny-island-cheese-beer-company-tasting-Travellarks

Things to Do on Bruny Island: Food, Nature, and Outdoor Adventures

There are plenty of things to do around Bruny Island with its spectacular landscapes of rugged coastline, lush forests and cliffs. Anticipation builds as you leave mainland Tasmania, through the towns of  Snug, Margate and Kettering where you catch the ferry for the short ride (20 minutes) to Bruny. From Hobart central it’s approximately 35 to 40 minutes to the Kettering, the ferry stop, then 10 to 15 minutes on the ferry Bruny Island by car. Plus any wait time for the ferry.

Here you’ll savour local delicacies – the best of artisan cheeses, succulent oysters and mouth-watering berries, and spot incredible wildlife roaming free. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Bruny Island’s many walking tracks, which range from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Popular activities include bushwalking, and if you’ve bought along your gear: kayaking, fishing, and surfing. Adventure seekers can also embark on thrilling eco-adventure expeditions, exploring amazing sea caves and towering sea cliffs.

Before boarding the ferry at Kettering, if you’ve a half day and want a special treat, try this amazing experience: Sauna Boats Tasmania while you wait! Unique and unbelievable preparation for Bruny Island’s relaxed and rejuvenation vibe, this is an experience that’s memorable as much as it is exhilarating. You’ll immerse yourselves in the calming warmth of the sauna that’s on a boat, followed by an optional refreshing plunge into Tasmania’s invigorating waters! Now that’s WOW!

A Travellarks discovery self-drive tour is featured is featured on this site – Roadtrip around Bruny Island.

Wellness & Pampering

  • Here’s a refreshing change for pamper products.The Honey Pot and Bruny Island Honey, both owned by the Wright family, represent our  lifelong collaboration with bees and the Tasmanian Wilderness. With over 1000 hives, these are followed year-round for the blooming flowers, ensuring a diverse nectar collection from various sources like Leatherwood, Bush, Prickly Box, and Manuka Honey across Lake Pedder, Bruny Island, and the Huon and Derwent Valleys. From lip balm to bath bombs, stock up on pamper products as well as other honeyed items for your indulgence. Located in Great Bay, just 20 mins from the ferry terminal, The Honey Pot is open for free tastings every day (except Christmas Day!)
  • Thinking about getting hitched at this idyllic island? Your wedding planner could be Bruny Island Weddings who have a comprehensive list of local providers to assist in your decision making. A venue for a wedding for 2 to 40 guests (maximum) might be Cloudy Bay Beachhouse Venue & Events.
  • Another wedding venue option is Sheepwash Bay Events, a 37 acre country home and wild coastal landscape as the backdrop to your love story. They have a number of recommendations for suppliers for your event.
Bruny-Island-Honey-Tasmania
Bruny Island Honey Tasmania

Explore & Discover

Discover Bruny Island: History, Nature, and Adventure

  • Relax and Explore: Visitors can swim, walk on the beach, or take a scenic cruise. Both north and south Bruny offer opportunities for relaxation. For more details, visit Tourism Bruny Island.
  • Historical Sites: Two Tree Point and Resolution Creek hold historical significance. These sites were part of the Nuenonne people’s traditional lands and early European exploration. Now part of the Bruny Island Neck Game Reserve, they offer stunning coastal walks and wildlife spotting opportunities. Interpretive signage shares details about the area’s historical importance. In the early 19th century, explorers and sealers frequented these waters. Two Tree Point likely got its name from two prominent trees used as landmarks for sailors. Resolution Creek may have been named after Captain Cook’s ship, HMS Resolution.
  • Adventure Bay: This picturesque hub on North Bruny is historically significant. It’s where Captain James Cook anchored in 1777. Adventure Bay is home to beautiful beaches and is ideal for relaxing, walking, or swimming
  • Beaches and Coastal Walks: For those wishing to surf, vs swim, vs being freezing cold brave souls. Here’s a list: Adventure Bay, Cloudy Bay Lagoon, Cloudy Bay Beach, The Neck Beach, Alonnah Beach, Lunawanna, Dennes Point, Sunset Beach, Queen Elizabeth Bay, Jetty Beach, Mabel Bay and Cemetery Beach. You won’t have the crowds.
  • Bligh Museum: Learn about Bruny Island’s maritime history at the Bligh Museum of Pacific Exploration. This museum highlights the exploration of Captain Cook, William Bligh, Tobias Furneaux, Matthew Flinders and Admiral Joseph-Antoine Bruny D’Entrecasteaux. All housed in a convict-built structure, it’s a must-see for history buffs.

Natural Wonders on Bruny Island

  • Jurassic Gardens and Inala Nature Reserve: Explore over 750 plant species at the Jurassic Gardens, connected to Gondwana. The adjacent Bruny Island’s Inala Nature Reserve spans 1,500 acres and offers self-guided and guided tours of diverse native flora and fauna.
  • If time allows, why not join a thrilling safari tour to encounter Tassie Devils or set sail on a half-day cruise chasing dolphins? Immerse yourself in Adventure Bay’s natural beauty, whether it’s soaking in the scenery, taking a refreshing dip, or paddling through its crystal-clear waters on a kayak.
  • The Neck and Truganini Lookout: The Neck connects North and South Bruny. Hike to Truganini Lookoutfor panoramic views of Adventure Island, Mount Wellington, Cape Raoul, the Tasman Peninsula, Cape Queen Elizabeth, and the hills of South Bruny Island. Truganini was named after an Aboriginal woman, Truganini, and to the Nuenonne people and you’ll see a monument honouring their place, courage and lives. The area is home to penguins and shearwaters, especially during summer evenings.
  • South Bruny National Park is a must for its striking landscapes and diverse coastal scenery. Explore walking tracks like the Fluted Cape Track and Labillardiere Peninsula Circuit in South Bruny National Park. The park offers diverse coastal landscapes, abundant wildlife, and outdoor adventure.
  • Cape Bruny Lighthouse: Standing 114 meters above the rugged coastline, the heritage listed lighthouse offers fascinating stories about shipwrecks, lighthouse life, and Bruny Island’s past. There’s tours are a truly special experience hosted by Craig Parsey (business operator) and former resident at the Cape Bruny Lightstation during the 1970s (as the son of a lighthouse keeper family)
  • Book ahead (online) and be aware of inclement weather which may impact a tour. Take warm and protective clothing, sensible shoes and camera/phone camera.

Adventure and Cruises on Bruny Island

  • Pennicott Wilderness Journey’s Bruny Island Cruises specialise in wilderness cruises along Bruny Island’s rugged coastline. Multi award winning of Australia’s Best Ecotourism Product and Tasmania’s Best Tourist Attraction 10 times! We highly recommend the 1/2 day cruise taking in 50 kilometres of coastline to the Friars and back. You’ll have a close encounter at the ‘Breathing Rock’, delve into deep sea caves and get close to soaring cliffs and wave carved sea stacks, including the iconic “The Monument.” You might rendezvous with albatross, dolphins, seals and migrating whales are just a few of the abundant wildlife.
Pennicott-Wilderness-Journey-Bruny-Island-tourists-Travellarks
Pennicott Wilderness Journey tourists Bruny Island Tasmania

 

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Pennicott Wilderness Journey Bruny Island Cruises

Good Eats:

Bruny Island Dining: From Quirky Wine Bars to Food Events

  • The Izzy Bar (3349 Bruny Island Main Rd, South Bruny): A quirky wine bar offering wood-fired oven pizzas, sourdough flatbreads, marinated meats, seafood, and vegetables. Enjoy Tasmanian wines, signature cocktails, and fire-cooked food. Paddock to plate philosophy coexists with an onsite orchard and herb gardens. Open Thurs – Sun for lunch, and Fri or Sat for dinner.
  • Mari Bruny (710 Adventure Bay Rd, Adventure Bay): A charming spot serving Asian fusion, Australian, Nepalese, vegetarian, and vegan dishes. Known for generous breakfasts, brilliant curries, and friendly service. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Hotel Bruny Bistro : Enjoy hearty meals like seafood chowder and wallaby gnocchi bolognese. A great casual dining option.
  • Bruny Bowls and Community Club: A classic bowling club offering traditional club fare to locals and visitors.
  • Bruny Island Wild – Food & Events : Offers event catering, a café, and a wood-fired oven. They also host cooking classes (bookings essential) and have an art room. Located on South Bruny.
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Bruny Island Wild Food and Events Tasmania

Foodies: From Paddock to Plate to Gourmet Delights

  • Roadside Baker. Bruny Island’s roadside honesty-system fridge is filled once a day with delicious sourdough and cookies that travellers and locals can’t resist. Located in Sheepwash Bay @thebrunybaker.
  • Marefold Catering & Events offers unique and bespoke dining experiences using the very best local produce from the Island for private occasions & events. Your Chef Simon Ford brings his eclectic background to the table to WOW you & your guests. Examples include use of native ingredients and bespoke menus.
  • Sunberry Bruny – Real Fruit Ice Cream Van! Their delicious ice creams are made with real fruits and operate primarily on weekends and some hot weekdays. For where they’re lurking, see @Sunberrybruny to stay informed.
  • Bruny Island Oysters: Sample the region’s renowned oysters, precious cargo of Bruny, known for their rich, creamy flavour and delicate briny taste followed by a rich, creamy sensation that melts in your mouth. Each oyster is a perfect balance of sweetness and savoury notes, complemented by a subtle hint of oceanic essence. Are you drooling? Bring a round or two home!
  • Bruny Island Berry Farm: Pick fresh, juicy berries for lunch (closed in winter). A must-visit for fruit lovers.
  • Bruny Island Providore (53 Adventure Bay Rd): Stock up on gourmet goodies, perfect for a picnic or home-cooked meal.
  • Bruny Island Premium Wines: Pair local wines with your gourmet dishes from the Providore and Get Shucked Oysters  for a delicious start.
  • Bruny Island Chocolate Company (55 Adventure Bay Rd, Adventure Bay): Indulge in artisanal chocolates at this local chocolate store and café.
  • Bruny Island Cheese & Beer Co offers unique craft cheeses, beers, and bread, all made from the farm’s rare breed cattle. The artisan producers—cheesemakers, farmers, bakers, and brewers—take pride in their high-quality produce, with their farm playing a vital role in the process. The herd consists of three rare breeds—Brown Swiss, Australian Dairy Shorthorn, and Normande—all excellent for both cheesemaking and beef production, though no longer commercially viable. Enjoy tastings and relax at their picnic table, surrounded by the stunning farm views.
bruny-island-cheese-beer-company-tasting-Travellarks
Cheese Beer Company Tasting Bruny Island

Retail Escapes on Bruny Island

  • Bruny Island Chocolate Company: Located at 55 Adventure Bay Rd, Adventure Bay. Indulge in delicious chocolates, pastries, and coffee at their store and café, open daily.
  • The Bruny Island House of Whisky on Northern Bruny Island, this shop is home to the premium “SPELLBOUND” spirits label. They offer Tasmanian single malt whiskies and rare gin releases. Bookings are required for tastings (groups of 6 or more).
  • Bruny Island Providore – 53 Adventure Bay Road, Adventure Bay. Stock up on gourmet local products, including cheeses, wines, and specialty foods.
  • Bruny Island Soap: Visit @brunyislandsoap for high-quality, handcrafted soaps made from natural ingredients, perfect for gifts or personal indulgence.
  • Bruny Island Wild – The Art Room – A small Art Gallery supplied by locally connected artists with a wonderful selection of paintings, prints and unusual photographs. Also on display is an extensive range of ceramics, handmade cards, books, and textile crafts, as well as an unusual collection of silver, glass and pearl jewellery. Open Sat to Sun 10:00AM – 4.00pm. Other times by appointment to mob: 0427 097 779
Bruny-Island-Wild-The-Art-Room - Travellarks
Bruny Island Wild The Art Room Tasmania

Additional Retail Tips

  • Adventure Bay Shopping
    The main shopping area on Bruny Island, with a small convenience store located at the local petrol station at Dennes Point. Local providores for specialist gourmet foods and wines are available.
  • Shopping Before the Ferry
    Consider stocking up on fresh produce at Margate on the mainland or Kingston (Hobart’s outer suburb) for larger supermarkets. You can also use click and collect services.
  • Essential Packing Tips Bring clothing for all weather conditions, including protective wear and appropriate hiking shoes for outdoor activities. Don’t forget hats and sunscreen, as protection is necessary year-round.
  • Fuel & ATMs
      • Fuel: Fill your car before arriving. The only fuel station is at Adventure Bay General Store.
      • Cash: There are no ATMs on the island, so bring some cash with you.
  • Parks Pass
    A valid Parks Pass is required for entry to Tasmania’s national parks. Purchase your pass online via Tasmanian Park Passes.

 

If you think Bruny Island sounds like an amazing holiday destination, why not see our Stays with a WOW accommodation.

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