Bruny Island, Tasmania: A Wild, Delicious & Unforgettable Day Trip (or Overnight Escape)

Destinations
Written By Tahnee Donkin
The Neck lookout on Bruny Island, Tasmania

The Neck lookout on Bruny Island.

Just a short ferry ride from Hobart, Bruny feels like a world away… with rugged coastlines, windswept cliffs, wildlife encounters, and some of the best local produce you’ll taste in Tasmania. Whether you’re planning a day trip or staying the night, Bruny Island is one of those bucket list Tasmania experiences that lives up to the hype, and then some.

How to Get to Bruny Island

Getting to Bruny Island is part of the adventure. You’ll need a car to explore properly, so drive south from Hobart to Kettering, where you’ll catch the Bruny Island Ferry to Roberts Point.

What you need to know before you go:

  • The ferry is first come, first served

  • Arrive early, especially during weekends, school holidays, or peak season

  • You may need to wait for 2-3 ferries at busy times

  • The ferry is reasonably priced and covers return travel for your vehicle

Once on the island, everything is self-guided.

First Stop: The Famous Bruny Baker Bread Fridges

If there’s one place you shouldn’t miss on arrival, it’s this.

Just off the main road are the Bruny Baker bread fridges… an honesty-based system run by a local baker who delivers freshly baked bread a few times a day. The fridges sit roadside, stocked with fresh sourdough, flatbreads, pocket breads and cookies.

We arrived just as the first delivery of the day was being loaded. The bread was still warm, the smell was incredible, and it felt like we’d stumbled into one of Tasmania’s best-kept secrets.

Good to know:

  • Bring cash

  • Prices are clearly marked on the brown paper bags (we paid $10 for a large sourdough, and it was delicious)

  • If the fridge is empty, there’s usually a sign telling you when the next batch arrives

  • It’s popular… go early if you don’t want to miss out

Simple, local, and unforgettable.

Bruny Baker bread fridges, Bruny Island, Tasmania

The Bruny Baker is a must stop on Bruny Island.

Climb The Neck for Iconic Bruny Island Views

Next, head to The Neck, the narrow strip of land connecting North and South Bruny Island. This is one of the most iconic viewpoints on the island… water on both sides, wild coastline stretching endlessly in either direction.

A wooden staircase takes you to the top, where you’re rewarded with sweeping views that make the climb absolutely worth it.

Top tip: Visit at high tide if you can, the contrast of deep blue water on both sides is spectacular.

The Neck is also a penguin viewing area at dusk, but even during the day it’s a must-do.

The Neck Lookout, Bruny Island, Tasmania

The Neck Lookout, Bruny Island.

Cape Bruny Lighthouse & Stormy Coastlines

From The Neck, continue south to Cape Bruny Lighthouse.

This part of the island feels raw and exposed, with cliffs dropping into the Southern Ocean, and winds that remind you just how wild Tasmania can be. We arrived just as a storm was rolling in, forcing us to bunker down in the car for a while before exploring further. Honestly? It only added to the experience.

Walk the grounds, take in the views, and let the weather do its thing. Bruny is beautiful in sunshine, but it’s magical when it’s moody. You can explore inside the lighthouse by tour only, so plan your visit in advance if you with to go inside.

Bruny Island Lighthouse, Tasmania

Cape Bruny Lighthouse.

Quiet Walks, Waterfalls & Unexpected History

One of the joys of Bruny Island is how much you can discover simply by wandering.

We squeezed in:

  • A short nature walk, perfect after rain

  • A few stunning beach spots

  • A visit to the Quarantine Station, which offers beautiful coastal views and a fascinating glimpse into Tasmania’s past

There’s also a small, family-run museum on the island, Bligh Museum, though it was closed during our visit.

Quarantine Station, Bruny Island, Tasmania

Quarantine Station on Bruny Island.

Wildlife Encounters on Bruny Island

Bruny Island is a dream for wildlife lovers. Keep your eyes peeled for:

  • Wallabies grazing roadside (and the elusive white wallabies)

  • Birdlife everywhere

  • Penguins at dusk near The Neck

  • Seals along the coastline (if you’re lucky)

Best Walks & Hikes on Bruny Island

Bruny Island is made for slow exploration on foot. From dramatic coastal lookouts to quiet beach walks and short summit climbs, the island delivers big scenery without requiring extreme hiking experience. Most walks are short, achievable and incredibly rewarding.

The Neck Lookout

One of Bruny Island’s most iconic viewpoints.

A short but steep walk leads to the famous Truganini Lookout, where you’ll see the narrow stretch of land connecting North and South Bruny, with the ocean on one side and the bay on the other.

  • Distance: ~600m return

  • Time: 20-30 minutes

  • Why it’s special: Sunrise and sunset views are next-level; keep an eye out for penguins and seals below.

Fluted Cape Track (Adventure Bay)

This is Bruny Island’s most spectacular coastal hike.

The track winds along dramatic cliffs with sweeping ocean views, before looping back through bushland.

  • Distance: ~6.8km loop

  • Time: 3-4 hours

  • Why it’s special: Sheer cliffs, crashing waves and excellent wildlife spotting.

Cape Queen Elizabeth Walk

A varied and rewarding walk that takes you through bushland, across beaches and out to a rugged headland.

  • Distance: ~3.5km return (longer options available)

  • Time: 1.5-3 hours

  • Why it’s special: Beach walking, rock formations and wide-open coastal scenery.

Grass Point Walk (Adventure Bay)

An easy, scenic coastal stroll perfect for a slower travel day.

  • Distance: ~4km return

  • Time: 1-1.5 hours

  • Why it’s special: Calm waters, forested sections and gentle terrain.

Great if you want something beautiful without committing to a big hike.

Cloudy Bay Beach Walk

Not a formal track, but one of the most beautiful places to stretch your legs. Walk along the expansive beach, explore the dunes and take in the raw ocean energy.

  • Distance: As long or short as you like

  • Why it’s special: Wild, windswept and wonderfully untamed.

Where to Eat & Drink on Bruny Island

Food is a huge part of the Bruny experience. If you’ve got time, add these to your list:

Views from The Neck Lookout, Bruny Island, Tasmania

The beautiful views from The Neck Lookout.

Where to Stay on Bruny Island (If You Stay Overnight)

While Bruny can be done as a long day trip, staying overnight lets you experience the island after the crowds leave.

Great overnight options include:

Staying overnight also gives you the chance to see penguins at dusk or dawn and enjoy the island at a slower pace.

Traveller tip: Accommodation on Bruny is limited, book early for weekends, school holidays and summer.

The rugged coastline of Bruny Island, Tasmania

Rugged coastlines near Cape Bruny.

Planning Tips for Visiting Bruny Island

  • Start early to avoid ferry queues

  • Bring cash for the Bruny Baker honesty system

  • Pack layers, the weather changes fast

  • Don’t over plan, leave room to wander

  • Stay overnight if you can

Why Bruny Island Belongs on Your Tasmania Bucket List

Bruny Island isn’t loud or flashy, and that’s exactly its magic. It’s the kind of place where freshly baked bread, wild coastlines and changing weather combine into something unforgettable.

If you’re craving Tasmania at its most authentic, Bruny Island delivers.

Ready to plan your Tasmanian itinerary? Discover 34 Unmissable Things to Do in Tasmania.

Disclosure: This blog includes affiliate links. I will be paid a commission if you use these links to make a purchase.

Tahnee Donkin
Next

Richmond, Tasmania: A Charming Historic Village You’ll Want to Slow Down For