Bruny Island is one of those places that feels untouched. It’s a destination that makes travellers slow down without even trying. Located just off the southeast coast of Tasmania, Bruny Island is renowned for its coastal scenery, wildlife, and local produce.

If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania this year, Bruny Island deserves more than just a quick stop. We recommend taking your time to research all the best things to do and see to ensure you get the most out of this surreal spot.

In this article

Getting there

Getting to Bruny Island is part of the experience. If you’re travelling from Hobart, it takes about a 40-minute drive south to Kettering, then a 20-minute ferry ride across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel. Ferries run regularly to the Island with passengers travelling for free. The only cost is if you intend to bring a vehicle on board – a smart choice for quick and easy transport on the island.

Seaside rock formation with natural arch and lush greenery under blue sky, stunning coastal scenery in Australia.

Foods of Bruny Island

One of the top reasons to visit Bruny Island is for the food. We can confirm the local Tasmanian produce does live up to the hype with plenty of places to stop and taste for yourself. A stop at Bruny Island Cheese Co is a compulsory activity with artisan cheeses, tasting boards and an on-site brewery perfect for families, couples and groups of friends looking to lose track of time. If you’re a seafood lover, we recommend a visit to Get Shucked Oyster Farm, where oysters are harvested directly from the surrounding waters and served moments later. Pair your oysters with a glass of Tasmanian sparkling wine and you’re winning. Wine enthusiasts will feel quite at home at Bruny Island Premium Wines, Australia’s southernmost vineyard producing cool-climate pinot noir, chardonnay, and riesling. Take in the view of the vines at the restaurant, perfect for a long lunch. 

Bruny Island Landscapes

Beyond eating and drinking is the stunning Bruny Island landscapes. A key spot is The Neck Lookout, a narrow strip of land connecting the North and South Bruny. Take a short climb up to the lookout and witness 360-degree views of the island and ocean. In the warmer months, visitors often spot penguins returning to the shore in the early evening. Head over to South Bruny National Park for more impressive scenery including cliffs, beaches, and coastal views. A stop off at Cape Bruny Lighthouse presents some history, dating back to the 1830s. Or, simply hop over to Adventure Bay for a more calm setting – a long, sheltered beach perfect for swimming or kayaking.

Lighthouse on coastal cliff with ocean views and rugged shoreline in the background.

Wildlife local to Bruny Island

Another highlight of the Island is the wildlife that inhabit it. Think white wallabies, echidnas, birds, seals, dolphins, and more. By taking a boat cruise along the coastline you can capture the sea creatures up close and appreciate the wildness of this part of Tassie. 

Where to stay at Bruny Island

For those eager to stay the night, there is a range of accommodation available, from rustic and refurbished shacks to architect-designed retreats. Our recommendations for couples seeking privacy are The Lookout Cabin or Cloudy Bay Villa. For groups and families, take a look at larger properties like Bruny Island Lodge which are surrounded by nature. 

At the core of Bruny Island, the contrast between the calm beaches and impressive cliffs are what make it a major drawcard for travellers. While the island is small, it delivers a worthwhile experience with a large opportunity to disconnect from everyday life.