White Beach is located on the Tasman Peninsula. This peninsula has some beautiful natural sites and provides a glimpse into the history of Tasmania, as home to the UK’s worst criminals during the 1800’s.
Things To See & Do
1) Port Arthur Historic Site
In the 1800’s Port Arthur was a prison that housed the United Kingdom’s repeat male offenders. Prisoners arrived via boat (from the UK) to Port Arthur to serve their sentence. This large site provides a glimpse at the history, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in partnership with a handful of other sites on the Convict Trail. It is worth a 1/2 day visit. All tickets include a 40 minute guided tour and a 20 minute boat ride, which are worth taking. Schedule your times when purchasing your tickets. The cafe onsite offers some tasty food selections and a nice selection of beverages. Note: All tickets are good for two days. Also the site hosts a nightly ghost tour for those that are interested.
2) Tessellated Pavement, Tasman Arch, Devil’s Kitchen & Blow Hole
Four natural sites that are located near Eaglehawk Neck on the gateway to the Tasman Peninsula. Each can be easily visited, as they are with in a short walk from a car park. The Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen are located within the Tasman National Park. Parks passes can be purchased from any tourist information site.
3) Remarkables Cave
A short walk will take you to view the entrance of this cave. Definitely worth a stop and the views over the coast line. Additionally, make a stop at a beautiful (and empty) white beach, Safety Cove State Reserve, in route to the cave.
4) Hikes & Walks
There are a handful of hikes on the Tasman Peninsula on the list of 60 Great Walks in Tasmania. We only had time to do one of the shorter walks, but wish we would have had more time to do one of the longer treks.
A) Waterfall Bay
This hike starts from the parking lot at Devil’s Kitchen in the Tasmania National Park. This short hike (~3.5 round trip) is a relatively easy hike across the cliff side, with a handful of viewing points to a waterfall. In the warm summer months, viewing the waterfall is highly unlikely, however the coastal views are beautiful. It took us about an hour to do the full hike.
B) Bivouac Bay
This is about 10km round-trip hike (3 hours) along the southern coast of the Port Arthur Peninsula. Unfortunately, we did not have ample time to complete this trek during our stay.
C) Cape Huay
A 9km round-trip hike (4 hours) with great views of Cape Huay. Unfortunately, we did not have ample time to complete this trek during our stay.
D) Cape Raoul
A 14km round-trip hike (5 hours) with stunning views of coastal seascapes. This was our top pick for a hike on the Port Arthur Peninsula, unfortunately, we did not have time!
5) The Dog Line
The dog line is a part of the convict trail history. A line of fierce dogs guarded the Eaglehawk Neck to prevent prisoners from escaping from Port Arthur. The nearby beach on Pirates Bay, is beautiful and worth a viewing.
6) Coal Mines
The Coal Mines is a part of the Convict Trail grouping that is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site has history as a part of the punishment for convicts. The Coal Mines Historic Site is highlighted as one of the 60 Great Short Walks in Tasmania. (Download the free app!)
Accommodation Options
Stormy Bay B&B
A great little B&B on the west coast of Port Arthur Peninsula boasting fantastic views over Wedge Bay. We enjoyed watching the sunset from the patio while enjoying a glass of port and the good company of other guests. Our host Bev and Gary where very welcoming and hospitable.