Uncover the 16 Best Things to Do in Bicheno, Tasmania

The charming seaside town of Bicheno brings holiday towns from a bygone era to mind. Not that I’m sure when that era might have been, but that’s the feeling I get. It is a sleepy town with a drop-dead gorgeous oceanfront and few people to share it with.

Bicheno, often misspelled as Bechino or Bichino, is packed full of things to do for such a small town. Whether you are interested in nature, walks on the beach, wine or whisky, or even local events and festivals, if you are looking for what to do in Bicheno, you won’t need to worry about boredom.

There are plenty of things to do in Bicheno, although there aren’t many in the way of bars or dining. What you will find, however, is a welcoming town with a single supermarket, a handful of low-key dining options, some walking trails, simple beach house accommodation, and of course, the ubiquitous seaside caravan park found in beach towns the country over.

Is Bicheno Worth Visiting?

Absolutely!

This charming coastal village along the Great Eastern Drive is the perfect place to escape for a weekend or longer and enjoy the slower, more relaxed pace of a seaside town stopped in time. The charm of the small seaside town, the beautiful beaches, and of course, the world-class wineries nearby make Bicheno an ideal destination along Tasmania’s eastern seaboard.

We have a couple of great experiences and things to do to get you started on your next Bicheno holiday. So without further adieu, here is our round-up of the top things to do in Bicheno.

The Top Things to Do in Bicheno Tasmania

Despite being a small and sleepy seaside town, there are a few key experiences that should be at the top of your list when you visit Bicheno. From delicious food to award-winning wine to stunning beaches, here are our top picks of the Bicheno attractions.

1. Feast at The Lobster Shack

If you are going to do only one thing in Bicheno, head to The Lobster Shack at the boat ramp. A staple on any road trip along the Great Eastern Drive in Tasmania, you will want to come hungry.

Perhaps a “shack” at one point in time, today this popular restaurant occupies a modern two-story building right on the water, offering beautiful views over the Bicheno boat ramp. The only thing better than the location is the fresh Tasmanian seafood on offer. Try the half lobster, the specialty here, or opt for the lobster roll like we did if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly feed.

And if you can’t or won’t, eat lobster thanks to your fond memories of Sebastian from The Little Mermaid, there are plenty of other delicious, less charismatic seafood options to choose from! We recommend pairing your meal with a beer from Little Rivers Brewery, which just might be our favorite brewery in all of Tasmania!

2. Sip at The Farm Shed East Coast Wine Center

No trip to Tasmania would be complete without sampling some of the produce and wares that Tasmania is known for, and in Bicheno, right in the heart of the East Coast Wine Region, wine is the name of the game.

The Farm Shed is a great spot to taste some of the best offerings the East Coast Wine region has to offer, especially if you are short on time and cannot spend days hopping from one cellar door to the next.

The East Coast Wine Region comprises over 22 wineries along the Great Eastern Drive, but only half of these wineries actually have a cellar door! This is why The Farm Shed in Bicheno is one of the best things to do in Bicheno. These guys sell wine from most (if not all) of the East Coast wineries, and you can even do a tasting of a selection of wines.

For only $12 per person, you can sample five wines from their rotating selection of 24 wines. We opted to each get something different, meaning we could taste 10 of the 24 wines available.

Also, if you have already spent time at wineries along the East Coast and are looking for something different, these guys also offer gin and whisky tasting from spirits around Tassy.

3. Grab a Coffee at Little Bay Patisserie

To me, morning doesn’t start until I have had my first cup of coffee! The Little Bay Patisserie is the best cafe and the best coffee in Bicheno, serving excellent coffee and amazing croissants. Do yourself a favor, and check this little gem out before heading out for the day to explore the many great things to do in Bicheno!

4. Attend the Annual Bicheno Food and Wine Festival

Each November, the small town of Bicheno, Tasmania, showcases the local produce and wine from Tasmania’s eastern coastline at the Bicheno Food and Wine Festival. This one-day event is a must for any food lovers, and rightly so, considering how amazing the food and wine in Tasmania are!

5. Go Diving at the Governor Island Marine Reserve

For keen divers, you are in luck! The Governor Island Marine Reserve, just off the coast of Bicheno, is one of the most popular diving sites in Tasmania and one of the best temperate diving sites in all of Australia!

The reserve includes more than 35 recognized diving sites, including the Hairy Wall, the Castle, and the Golden Bommies.

There is no dive school in Bicheno. However, you can rent equipment from Tasmania Divers in Hobart.

6. Tour and Taste Waubs Harbour Whisky

For whisky lovers, it would be a shame to visit Bicheno and not visit Waubs Harbour Distillery. Housed in an old oyster hatchery, Waubs Harbour Distillery prides itself on its maritime Tasmanian single malt whiskey.

Born out of a vision of two brothers back in 2017, the family has been hard at work over the last few years to perfect their whiskey and find the perfect location for their new distillery, and we think they nailed it!

In fact, Waubs Harbour recently was awarded the highest award at the World’s Whisky Masters held by the Spirit’s Business for its outstanding Port Storm Whisky.

All of this to say, if you are a whisky drinker, then a stop at Waubs Harbour Distillery is a must. The team at Waubs Harbour Distillery offers a combined tour and tasting or just a tasting. Reservations should be made in advance on their website.

The Best Free Things to Do in Bicheno Tasmania

There are a surprising amount of free things to do in Bicheno. Here are our favorites!

7. Dodge the Blow from the Bicheno Blowhole

Before visiting the Bicheno Blowhole, I had been let down and underwhelmed by Tasmania’s blowhole situation. Other blow holes, such as the Tasman blowhole on the Tasman Peninsula, which wasn’t “blowing” when we visited had left us skeptical.

Luckily in Bicheno, we visited the Bicheno Blowhole on a particularly rough day because of inclement weather. Needless to say, my idea about blowholes changed after seeing this one in action, which is why it was one of our favorite things to see in Bicheno!

8. Spot Bicheno Penguins Returning Home

I was surprised to learn that you can spot penguins in Tasmania, and in fact, there are quite a number of locations where this can be done. Tasmania’s local penguin, known as a little penguin and often referred to as the fairy penguin, is the smallest of the penguin family. Fairy penguins only grow to roughly 1 foot (30 cm) tall and weigh approximately 3.3 lbs (1.5 kg), making it difficult to see them returning to their burrows at dusk.

The best place to see them in Bicheno is on the beach close to the Bicheno blowhole. When visiting, respect the little penguins in their natural habitat and refrain from loud noises and camera flashes. Consider living in the moment instead of trying to capture the best shot for Instagram. If possible, join a tour to see the Bicheno penguins so experienced guides can help instruct you on observing them without disturbing their nightly ritual.

9. Stroll Along the Bicheno Foreshore Walking Track

One of my favorite things about visiting the small seaside towns throughout Tasmania is admiring their stunning coastline. The Bicheno coastline is no different. Stunning coves and bays surrounded by glistening blue waters are never a view that gets old.

The Bicheno Foreshore Walking Track is a 3-kilometer one-way trail running from Red Bill Point along Waubs Bay and all the way around Peggy’s Point to the Blowhole. This journey is mostly flat and will give you some of the best views in all of Bicheno.

10. Head to the Bicheno Beach

It isn’t a holiday in a picture-perfect coastal town if you do not head to the beach. There are plenty of beaches in Bicheno to choose from. Redbill Beach is a lovely 1-kilometer beach perfect for surfing. Waubs Beach, just in town, is perfect for watching the sunset or for a quick swim. A little further along, you will find Beach End, another long, sandy beach with stunning blue water.

11. Spot Whales from Whalers Lookout

A short 1.7-kilometer return hike in the center of town will take you to Whalers Lookout, where you can have a chance to spot whales on the Tasmanian coastline. Whales can be found migrating north from May to June to calve before returning back south between mid-August and November to their feeding grounds.

The Bicheno Whalers Lookout is part of the East Coast Whale Trail, which includes a series of stops along Tasmania’s eastern coastline perfect for whale watchers.

12. View the Bicheno Beams

Are you looking for what to see in Bicheno? Why not check out the Bicheno Beams! The Bicheno Beams is an annual event that occurs one month during the winter at the Bicheno Lion’s Park. Each night the skies come alive with a colorful light show with audio delivered directly to your cell phone. Just make sure to bring a pair of headphones and show up before 6:00 pm so as not to miss the show!

Things to Do Near Bicheno

Undoubtedly, your trip to Bicheno will pass through some of the best things to do in eastern Tasmania. Whether you are on a road trip up the Great Eastern Drive or just visiting on an overnight trip from Hobart, there are plenty of great things to do around Bicheno that you are sure to enjoy!

13. Hike in Freycinet National Park

One of the most iconic places to visit in Tasmania is the Freycinet National Park, home to one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, Wine Glass Bay, and is easily the best thing to do near Bicheno. While the water may be a bit too chilly even in summer to go for a swim, one of the best things to do in Freycinet is to hit the trails. There are plenty of great hikes to enjoy in the Freycinet National Park.

Choose from various hikes, such as the easy hikes to the Wine Glass Bay Lookout overlooking the Wine Glass Bay to the more difficult Mt Amos scramble to the top for another vantage point over, you guessed it, Wine Glass Bay. Or, if you are really keen, explore the whole Freycinet National Park with the multi-day Freycinet Peninsula Circuit.

You don’t need a guide to explore Freycinet National Park, but the Freycinet Walking Tour by Experiential Tasmania is a great option if you are interested in booking a guide. This guided walking tour takes you along Wine Glass Bay, the Isthmus Track, and Hazard Beach before returning to the starting point via an Aqua Taxi. Along the way, enjoy morning tea at Wine Glass Bay and a gourmet picnic lunch at Hazard Beach!

14. Kayak Wine Glass Bay

If you would like to visit Wine Glass Bay but hiking doesn’t interest you, another great way to bask in the natural beauty of this spectacular national park is on the water. Kayaking Wine Glass Bay gives you unbeatable views that you won’t have from on land. The guides from Freycinet Adventures are knowledgeable and experienced on the water.

15. Explore the East Coast Wine Region

Many of the wineries in the East Coast Wine Region of Tasmania are located only a stone’s throw away from Bicheno.

You could spend quite a lot of time (and money) exploring the 22 wineries that comprise the East Coast Wine Region. And for some, deciding which East Coast Winery to visit will be difficult. Our advice is to check out Boomer Creek for the unbeatable views with excellent wine, or hit up Craige Knowe for friendly service and superb wine!

16. Wine and Dine at Melshells Oysters

The side trip to Melville’s Oyster is an absolute must for any oyster fanatic and food lover. Quite possibly some of the best oysters I have ever had in my entire life, Melville’s Oysters is the perfect stop on any Great Eastern Drive and a great thing to do near Bicheno.

Quite literally a shack along a long empty road, you won’t find anything here except Melshells. Bring your favorite Tassy bubbly or wine, and enjoy fresh oysters overlooking Freycinet Mountain and Cole’s Bay.

17. Explore the Outdoors at Douglas-Apsley National Park

A national park in Tasmania that is often overlooked by tourists opting for one of the other more popular national parks is Douglas-Aspley National Park. This national park is located just outside of Bicheno and provides a great glimpse of some of the beautiful outdoor forests Tasmania is known for. The most popular thing to do in the Douglas-Apsley National Park is to tackle the 5.6-kilometer return journey to the Apsley River waterhole and gorge.

Those looking for more adventure can embark on the Leeaberra Track a 28-kilometer one-way hike through the remote areas of the Douglas-Apsley National Park.

Where to Stay in Bicheno Tasmania

As always, there are plenty of places to stay in Bicheno, depending on your budget and comfort level.

Free Camping in Bicheno

Unfortunately, there is no free camping in Bicheno. The closest free camping is at the Friendly Beaches camping area in the Freycinet Peninsula. Camping here is free for those with a Tasmania National Parks pass. There are limited spots available at the Friendly Beaches camping area, and spots are on a first-come, first-serve basis. The drive from Friendly Beaches camping area to Bicheno is only 23 km.

Best Bicheno Hotels

Wheel House Studio | For couples on a budget

For basic accommodation only 600 meters from the city center of Bicheno, check out Wheel House Studio. Suitable only for two, it is a great option for couples on a budget, with prices starting as low as $77 for the night with breakfast included.

Seymore Waves | For families

Seymore Waves, a beautiful three-bedroom family home, is the perfect base for families visiting Bicheno and the surrounding area, as it is only a 15-minute drive from the town center. A two-minute walk from the beach, you will have everything you need for any Tassy holiday! Prices start at $190 for the night.

The Hub Bicheno | For modern amenities

For the most up-to-date amenities and central location, check into The Hub Bicheno. Located directly in the heart of the small seaside town, The Hub offers modern and stylish accommodation. These spacious and comfortable rooms will ensure your time in Bicheno is spent well! Prices start at $175 per night for two.

Bicheno Cabin Park

Located on the edge of town, the Bicheno Cabin Park is an excellent option for those on a budget. With a full kitchen in each cabin, extremely friendly staff, and reasonable prices, the Bicheno Cabin Park is an easy choice in Bicheno. Prices here start from $125 for a night.

Other Helpful Information About Visiting Bicheno, Tasmania

Where Is Bicheno?

Bicheno is located on Tasmania’s eastern seaboard, approximately 2.5 hours from Hobart.

How to Get from Hobart to Bicheno?

The best way to get from Hobart to Bicheno is by car. The drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, but there are plenty of incredible places to stop on the way along the Great Eastern Drive. We highly recommend renting a car while in Tasmania, as this is the best way to see all the sights. You may also want to consider renting a van in Tasmania, as there are plenty of free and paid camping sites throughout Tasmania.

For the more adventurous, the 737 bus runs from Hobart (City Interchange Stop #D4) to Bicheno (Bicheno Information Centre), taking approximately 3 hours.

How Far Is Bicheno to Freycinet?

The drive from Bicheno to Freycinet only takes about 35 minutes to reach the parking area for Wine Glass Bay.

How Far Is Bicheno to Launceston?

The drive from Bicheno to Launceston takes approximately two hours. However, we highly encourage visitors to continue north along the Great Eastern Drive to experience some of the best bits of Tassie.

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As you can see, even though Bicheno is a small coastal town in Tasmania, there are so many great things to do in Bicheno. Let us know if you enjoyed Bicheno Tasmania as much as we did!

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