Add This Maria Island Day Trip to Your Travel List

Maria Island (pronounced Mariah) is truly one of Tasmania's most enchanting destinations, and that's saying a lot in a state bursting with natural beauty. Just a scenic 40-minute ferry ride from the small town of Triabunna, this island is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.

As you step off the ferry to Maria Island National Park, you’ll be greeted by a paradise of adventure. Whether you prefer hiking or cycling, there’s a trail for everyone, ranging from leisurely strolls to more challenging hikes. With no cars allowed on the island, the tranquil roads are perfect for biking as you soak in the stunning scenery—think towering dolerite peaks, dramatic sandstone cliffs, lush fields, and pristine white sand beaches. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this magical place home. 

Ready to dive into the wonders of Maria Island? Here’s our guide to the best things to do on your unforgettable day trip!

Depart from Triabunna

If you’re taking on Maria Island as a day trip, you’ll want to make the most of your full-day adventure by heading out early. Encounter Maria Island runs the only ferry service to the island, departing from Triabunna. In summer (September to April), the ferry to Maria Island leaves at 8:30 AM, while in winter (May to August, excluding Tuesdays and Thursdays), it departs at 10:00 AM. The last ferry back from Maria Island is at 4:15 PM, giving you ample time to explore the island within the less-than-12-hour window.

The ferry ride takes about 30 minutes, and return ticket prices range from $33 for a child to $54 for an adult. If you want to bring your bike, it will cost an extra $15.50, or you can hire one through Encounter.

Charles Street, Triabunna

Visit the old town of Darlington

Once you disembark at the Maria Island ferry terminal, it’s a great idea to head straight to the old Commissariat Store (which is now the visitors’ centre). Here you’ll find practical stuff like guides on the island’s many walks and tidal information so you can be safe while exploring. You’ll also find lots of facts about the island’s fascinating history, from the Aboriginal people (believed to be the Tyreddeme clan, part of the Oyster Bay nation) who lived on the island for 40,000 years through to colonisation and the island’s convict past. While it’s a somewhat passive way to kick off your day, it gives an important snapshot of Maria Island, which is handy context for when you’re wandering through the island’s buildings and ruins. 

Beyond the visitors’ centre there’s several more buildings to look at, including the most intact convict probation station in the entire country. Wandering through this old town, you’ll realise why Darlington was named a World Heritage Australian Convict Site in 2010.

Darlington, Maria Island

Pick a hike, any hike

There are so many walks to do on Maria Island, ranging from the easy stroll to ascending the summit of Mount Maria. Since it’s a relatively small island, you can tick off a few walks in a day if you keep them short. The Painted Cliffs loop walk (4.7km round trip, approximately 1.5 - 2.5 hours duration) is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks and gives you views of both the ocean and the incredible patterns in the cliff-face that quite literally look like they’ve been painted on. 

For a harder challenge, walk past the Fossil Cliffs and complete the more difficult Bishop & Clerk track (11.9km, approximately 4-5 hours return) instead. The Reservoir Circuit (4km, 1.5 hours return) is a pleasant flat walk that promises lots of wildlife. It’s perfect to do in the afternoon given that’s when the animals come out to play.

Chill on the beach

There’s plenty of lovely little beaches on Maria Island, with its position on the east coast blessing them with the trademark white sand and azure water that this part of Tassie traditionally has. After a long hot walk, there’s no better reward than throwing yourself in the cool water. Darlington Beach is right near the township of Darlington, and just past the Painted Cliffs walk you’ll find Hopground Beach – a great spot for a picnic lunch if you’re doing the Painted Cliffs loop. 

Further afield you’ll find the stunning Four Mile Beach, about a 1.5 hour walk from Darlington, or Shoal Bay. At 3 hours walk away, it’ll likely be all yours for the afternoon.

Look for wombats

…And pademelons, Bennett’s wallabies, Cape Barren geese, and Forester kangaroos. Maria Island is aptly nicknamed “Tasmania’s Noah’s Ark,” because it truly is a haven for wildlife. So much so that in 2012, endangered Tasmanian devils were brought to the island in a breeding programme aimed at eradicating the fatal tumour disease that shortens the animals’ lifespan. You’ll find 11 out of Tasmania’s 12 endemic bird species here on this island, including the endangered forty spotted Pardalote, wedge-tailed eagles, green rosellas, hooded plovers and more. 

The island is probably most famous for its Flinders Island wombats, who are more commonly spotted in the afternoon. You’ll see them wandering around and grazing, but they also turn up in unexpected places – like tucked in behind old convict machinery in the island’s heritage buildings to have a big old snooze! 

Super keen for a day trip to Maria Island now that you know the wonders that await? Here are a few tips to ensure a smooth adventure.

1. First and foremost, come prepared! There are no shops on the island, so be sure to pack plenty of water (all must be treated before drinking) and snacks to keep you fueled for your explorations. And remember, all rubbish needs to come back with you, so toss a bin bag in your pack.

2. While phone reception is limited, you won’t mind disconnecting as you immerse yourself in the island’s breathtaking landscapes.

3. Don’t forget to purchase a Parks Pass, as Maria Island is entirely a national park. You can snag this online or before boarding the ferry from Triabunna.

Sitchu Tip: Before your adventure, be sure to grab a coffee from the van in Triabunna for that perfect pre-excursion pick-me-up!

If you're now equally as smitten with Maria Island as we are (or have always been smitten), you might find yourself also a little in love with these Huon Valley boutique stays, or with this charming road trip itinerary between Launceston and Hobart.