On Tasmania’s remote West Coast, Strahan is a place of dramatic landscapes, rich stories, and wild adventure. Nestled at the edge of Macquarie Harbour, this historic port town is the gateway to the UNESCO-listed Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. It’s a destination that rewards those willing to travel a little further, and provides an interesting contrast with the gentler landscapes of Tasmania’s East Coast.
Whether you’re drawn by the untamed beauty of the Gordon River, the town’s convict past, or the sheer scale of the surrounding landscapes, Strahan makes a compelling base for a few days of West Coast exploration.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the best local walks, activities, and places to eat and drink that make Strahan one of Tasmania’s most unique small towns.
Activities and attractions in Strahan and surrounds
Strahan’s most iconic experience is a cruise on the Gordon River: a trip that takes you deep into ancient rainforest and past haunting reminders of the area’s convict and logging history. Several operators run cruises, with comfortable vessels, knowledgeable guides, and optional stops at heritage sites like Sarah Island.
For a very different kind of journey, the West Coast Wilderness Railway offer a 2.5 hour Teepookana and the King experience, leaving from Regatta Point Station. This follows the King River deep into the rainforest, and includes a flora walk and local honey tasting. The restored steam train, fascinating commentary, and relaxing pace make this a truly memorable ride.
Families and thrill seekers might enjoy venturing out to Ocean Beach – Tasmania’s longest stretch of sand – where scenic walks offer views of crashing surf and windswept dunes. Swimming isn’t recommended, but you can hire a sandboard from one of the shops in Strahan and zip your way 30 metres down the dunes. Sadly the only way to climb back up them is on foot.
Strahan’s dark past is never far away. Pay a visit to the excellent West Coast Reflections exhibition at the visitor centre, or catch a performance of The Ship That Never Was – Australia’s longest-running play – for a family-friendly take on local history.
Walks in Strahan and surrounds
You don’t have to go far to find an interesting walk in Strahan. The Hogarth Falls Track is one of Tasmania’s 60 Great Short Walks. It’s an accessible trail that begins just behind the Peoples Park and takes around 50 minutes return. It winds gently through temperate rainforest to a lovely waterfall – ideal for stretching your legs after a long drive.
For something more expansive, take a drive out to the Ocean Beach Trail where you can walk for kilometres along Tasmania’s wild west coast. The light here is especially beautiful in the early morning or evening, but wrap up well because it’s almost always windy.
If you’re up for a longer half-day walk, head north to Montezuema Falls (about 90 minutes away). This is where you’ll find Tasmania’s tallest waterfall, and it’s reached via a scenic walk through rainforest and along an old tramway track. The track is mostly flat and well maintained, making it suitable for families or casual walkers. Keep your eyes peeled for native birds and wildlife.
For something a bit gentler that doesn’t require a drive, opt for the Strahan Foreshore Track: an hour long walk in the town itself that again follows an old railway line. There are interpretation panels, historic buildings, and beautiful water views.
Food and drink in Strahan and surrounds
Strahan may be small, but its dining scene reflects the West Coast’s focus on quality, atmosphere, and local produce.
Risby Cove Restaurant is the standout for refined dining, offering seasonal menus featuring fresh seafood and Tasmanian ingredients in a stylish waterfront setting. Open for dinner Tuesday through Saturday (check the website in case of seasonal variations), it’s a favourite for special occasions or relaxed long dinners.
Further around the harbour, the Regatta Point Tavern serves generous, family-friendly meals with panoramic views over the harbour. It’s a relaxed venue with a bistro menu, children’s meals, and a good selection of local wine and beer.
For a light lunch, coffee, or snack, The Coffee Shack is a welcoming spot on Strahan Esplanade. It’s known for its great coffee, gluten free and vegetarian options, and friendly service – perfect for refuelling between adventures.
Another good daytime option is Tracks on Point, a licenced cafe at the heritage railway station at Regatta Point. Expect freshly prepared meals, excellent coffee, and the fun bonus of watching the steam train roll in if your timing is right.
For something a little different, Moonscape Wine Bar in nearby Queenstown is worth the short drive. With Tasmanian wines, cocktails, and casual bar food served in a relaxed, rustic setting, it’s a favourite among locals and visitors alike – particularly on weekend evenings. Keep an eye out for a more detailed guide to Queenstown in a future post.
For itinerary suggestions and up-to-date listings, we also recommend checking out the dedicated West Coast Tasmania website.
– Ruth Dawkins ( commissioned by Freycinet Resort)