Tasmania’s wild west coast is known for its rugged charm, and a visit to Strahan is sure to make you fall in love with the town’s off-beat lifestyle. It offers many unique experiences, from UNESCO-listed wilderness cruises and penguin-spotting boat rides to thought-provoking plays that bring culture and storytelling into the mix. This laid-back destination invites you to slow down and soak up its spectacular surrounds.
Strahan is all about nature, giving each visitor gorgeous views at every bend. If you’re planning a trip to Tasmania, I suggest you work this little town into your itinerary and check out some of the can’t-miss things to do in Strahan that really show off the area.
Gordon River Cruises
A Gordon River cruise is certainly a unique way to uncover Tasmania’s UNESCO Heritage-listed Wilderness. A River Gordon Cruise in Strahan glides across the Macquarie Harbour, passing by the Huon Pine Sawmill, Liberty Point and Hells Gates (not as terrifying as it sounds!). Once you enter Gordon River, flanked by the wilderness on both sides, you’ll see the much talked about mirror-like reflections on the water – quite an unmatched experience. You’ll also learn more about the dark history of Sarah Island with a guided tour and even go on the Gordon River Heritage Landing Rainforest boardwalk to explore the lichen-covered forest.
West Coast Wilderness Railway
West Coast Wilderness Railway in Strahan offers a range of rail experiences through the remote West Coast landscape. Originally built in the late 19th century, this historic railway now offers short express trips as well as longer expedition rides that let you explore the beautiful surrounding forests, too. Spanning 34 kilometres of track that’s been around for over 130 years, the railway never fails to impress. Even though it was built through tough, rugged terrain, you’ll find yourself travelling through a region filled with wilderness and breathtaking natural beauty.
Bonnet Island Penguin Tour
The Bonnet Island tours are boutique cruises that take only about 10-16 passengers, giving you a much more personal experience. These guided tours let you step ashore on Bonnet Island to explore a bustling penguin colony up close. Along the way, you’ll hear captivating stories about the island’s history and the lighthouse keepers’ lives. Once you’re there, you can keep a respectful distance and watch the adorable blue Fairy Penguins waddle back to their burrows. Add in the stunning scenery and the beautiful sunset over the Southern Ocean, and you’ve got a real feast for the eyes.
Henty Dunes
The incredible Henty Dunes near Strahan are just a short drive north of the town. These massive sand dunes are actually the largest in Tasmania! They’ve been shaped in part by the powerful “Roaring Forties” winds that whip across the ocean and pound the West Coast. Some of the dunes rise up to 30 metres high. Once you arrive, you can rent a sandboard or a toboggan and have a blast sliding down. And, if you’re feeling adventurous enough to go again, you’ll get a good workout dragging yourself back up to the top — definitely a fun way to stay warm on a chilly day! Keep an eye out for Aboriginal sites and shorebird nests, and remember to treat this special place with respect.
The Ship That Never Was
Not every noteworthy experience in Strahan is crafted by nature. ‘The Ship That Never Was’ is a Strahan must-see. This is Australia’s longest-running play and runs from September to May. It’s based on the incredible escape of ten convict shipwrights from the Sarah Island settlement back in January 1834. If you’re visiting Strahan, it’s definitely a show you won’t want to miss! This live, professional theatre production brings the true story to life with a perfect blend of drama and humor, making it a fun experience for the whole family. With just a small cast of about 2 to 4 actors, audience participation is a big part of the show, adding an extra layer of excitement and interaction for everyone involved.
Wrapping Up
Strahan doesn’t compete for attention among Tasmania’s popular destinations — the experiences it offers earns it a place in every traveller’s itinerary. So, plan your Tasmanian holiday wisely, and make sure you visit Strahan to experience the magic of the west coast. Have you packed your bags yet?
