The complete travel guide to visiting Flinders Island in Tasmania.

After spending most of my life on King Island, I decided it was time to have a look at our ‘rival island’. Positioned in the east end of the Bass Strait, above Tasmania, you find Flinders Island. It is the largest island of the Furneaux Group and is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle. Coming to the island feels like stepping back ten years in time. However, in my opinion, the islands do not compare. They offer almost entirely different experiences without an exact argument for which one is better. Visiting either or both of the Bass Strait Islands will be a trip to remember. 

In this complete guide to visiting Flinders Island, you will find the must do’s, what to know before coming and how to get here. You will discover the best ways to get around and some handy tips for making your trip the best possible. Moreover, the complete guide will tell you everything about the camping guidelines and where to camp on the island. If you need any information on your trip to Flinders Island, this post will have you covered.

Things to know before going to Flinders Island.

Much like the other Bass Strait Island, King Island, there are some pretty particular things you must know before coming. If you do not know them, you may get stuck with no reception or other travel-related topics.

Telstra is the only network provider:

Before travelling to Flinders Island, this is probably the most important thing to know. You will not have any reception with any other provider than Telstra. If you are not a Telstra customer, I suggest buying a pre-paid sim card for your stay. You don’t have to worry about slow internet speeds or poor coverage. Most of the island has at least 4 bar reception, and the internet is much better than on King Island. 

The locals wave to each other:

The first time driving here can get you a little confused. When driving past a car on the road, the person driving the other car will likely do a one-finger wave. The wave is just another friendly local niche, so don’t be concerned you have been mistaken for someone else. 

Shuttle bus and taxi service:

A shuttle bus is available for the nights you spend too long at the pub or don’t feel like driving. However, it does not cater for airport pick up and only goes from Whitemark to the following destinations: Palana ($90), Killicrankie ($80), Memana( $80), Lady Barron ($70) and Trousers Point ($60). Any other location needs to be negotiated beforehand. Prices are for two passengers, and any additional person costs another $20. The bus can hold up to 8 people. Contact Jon Davison to organise your ride on 0418 386 640. If you are looking for transport from the airport to Whitemark, you can contact Justin on (03) 6359 2168. If you want to tour the island, I suggest hiring a car as it is the best way to get yourself around.

Wildlife on the roads:

Along with other remote Australian locations, you must be careful when driving on roads. This is especially relevant when driving at dusk or night. Flinders Island is home to wildlife such as wallabies, possums, and wombats. If you happen to hit one and are concerned about its welfare, please call the Parks and Wildlife ranger on 6359 2217.

Shop times on Flinders Island:

Grocery shop times on Flinders Island are drastically different to what most people are accustomed to. Walkers Supermarket in Whitemark (the closest to the airport) is open 9 am-5:30 pm Monday-Friday, 9 am-12 pm Saturday and closed on Sundays. You will need to be on the ball for your food requirements, especially if you arrive on Sunday. However, there is another supermarket in Lady Barron. The Lady Barron Store (or called Max’s by the locals) is open 8 am-5 pm Monday through Friday, 8 am-1 pm Saturday, and 9 am-1 pm Sunday and Public Holidays. Conversely, you can always go out for dinner if you arrive Sunday, or call ahead and have your groceries waiting for you at the airport or your accommodation. The island’s north end has no food available (other than the food van on Sunday at the museum).

Fresh fruit and Vegetables from Victoria are not allowed:

Any fish, fruit or vegetables are not allowed into the state of Tasmania, including its Islands. For the unseasoned Tasmanian traveller, you may not know about this rule. Click here for a complete list of what is and isn’t allowed to be brought into the state.

Getting Fuel on Flinders Island:

There are only two places on the island where you can fill up your car: The Lady Barron Store and the 24-hr self-service in Whitemark. For fuel in Lady Barron, you will need to go during shop opening hours (8 am-5 pm Monday through Friday, 8 am-1 pm Saturday, and 9 am-1 pm Sunday and Public Holidays). For fuel in Whitemark, there is a 24-hour self-service machine located just as you enter the town on the right. There is no fuel up the north, so fill up before adventuring.

80km/h is the speed limit on gravel roads:

While most gravel roads in Tasmania are also limited to 80km, it never hurts to be repeated. We’d rather not have anyone having an accident on Flinders Island. However, it would be best to remember to drive to conditions, e.g. loose gravel = drive slower than 80km. 

The weather is unpredictable:

The Bass Strait is known for its wild, unpredictable weather. The weather on these islands does change within seconds. Therefore, make sure you pack for all four seasons, no matter how good the weather forecast looks.

There are snakes on the island:

During the warmer months, make sure to look out when hiking or exploring! Like most places in Australia, there are poisonous snakes on Flinders Island. Tread carefully, but if you do see one, do not panic. Walk away slowly.

The accommodation is limited, so book early:

Limited accommodation is a given for most rural or remote locations. There are various accommodations, but be sure to book well in advance to get the dates you want! Especially during the summer months, places can fill up early.

Make sure to book your dinner reservation:

Again, this is not surprising on a small remote island. However, if you are coming from a city, it may not cross your mind to have to book your dinners in advance. It is essential, or you may not be having dinner that night! The small number of restaurants can fill up pretty fast.

Camping information (read Camping on Flinders Island below for more details):

If you plan to bring your camper over and want to camp on the island, you need to be mindful of the restrictions and guidelines. For example, there are no powered campsites, so you have to be 100% self-sufficient. A Dump Ezy Station is situated at the Showgrounds (Palana Road) near the toilet block. If you are looking for cooking facilities, there are BBQ facilities at Yellow Beach, Trousers Point, Whitemark Foreshore, Allports Beach (Emita) and Killiecrankie.

Your rubbish needs to be disposed of at Council facilities. Either the tip or transfer stations (skip bins) will do. These can be found on Palana Road and Lady Barron Road. It should also be noted that there is currently a total fire ban throughout the Furneux Islands – no exceptions unless you have a permit. Remember – a valid Tasmanian Parks Pass is required to enter the national parks. If you plan to use the National Parks campsites, you need a parks pass.

How to get to Flinders Island?

There are two main ways to get to the island: ferry or aeroplane. 

Sharp Airlines is the only RPT (regular public transport) operating on the island. Flights leave from either Launceston or Essendon (in Melbourne) airport. Departure times and days may vary, so try to book in advance to line everything up. However, charters services are also available. The four prominent charter companies are Vortex Air (Moorabbin Airport), Lilydale Aiport (Lilydale Airport), Flinders Island Air Charter (Lady Barron) and Flinders Island Aviation (Lady Barron). Sharp Airlines also does charter services for large groups.

The ferry is the other way to the island. Leaving Bridport (Tasmania), it arrives in the south of the island at Lady Barron. It is an approx. 8-hour voyage and sails on-island demand, usually about once a week. A return trip for one passenger (no vehicle) is $135. For more information, please click here.

Where to stay on Flinders Island?

Approximately forty different accommodation options are available on Flinders Island from my quick counting. You can choose from the farm, pub, and beachfront stays! They range in price, style and location, so you have plenty of prospects to sort through for your best fit. Many of these options are self-contained houses, perfect for all groups. Further, you can also opt for sleeping under the stars in either a camper van or traditional camping. There are plenty of camping spots around the island. However, it would be best to obey the island’s guidelines. If you are unsure of these, please reread the above sections!

Moreover, if you are looking for pet-friendly accommodation, please see the list below.

• Island View (Lady Barron) 0429 394 878
• Baileys Lane (Whitemark) 0459 036 359
• Tanner’s Tide (Westend) 0438 281 052
• Beachside Getaway by request (Whitemark) 0414 417 903
• Palana Beach House (by request) 0431 383 180
• Simplicity by the Sea (by request) 0490 111 097

How to travel around Flinders Island?

The best way to get the most out of your trip here is to have your own transport. There is not much within walking distance! You can either bring your vehicle over with you on the ferry or use one of the two hire car companies on the island. If you plan to spend a few weeks or more, it’s worth bringing your car. If not, the two companies you can use are Flinders Island Car Rentals and Flinders Island Cabin Park and Car Hire. 

Where to eat on Flinders Island?

One of the most important things to know is where to eat! It is even more critical to make sure you book into the restaurants. Due to the pandemic, operating hours have been impacted, so make sure you call ahead or find the most updated trading hours. Otherwise, you can also opt for takeaway in some places! Below, I have listed the restaurants and cafes on Flinders Island and the best contact for bookings. If you did not read the shop times information above (in things to know before coming), I suggest going back up to read it. But in short, there are two grocery stores, one in Whitemark and one in Lady Barron. There is no food in the islands north, other than the food van at the museum on the weekends.

Whitemark:

Walkers IGA Supermarket – call 0359 2010 if you need to organise a grocery order (important for travellers arriving on Sundays).

Interstate Hotel – 6359 2114

Tuckshop Cate Cooks – 0412 626 992

Flinders Island Sports Club Whitemark – 6359 2220

Flinders Wharf Restaurant (The Wharf Shed) – book online at www.onislandtime.com.au

The Flinders Island Bakery – (03) 6359 2105

The library in Whitemark – 6359 2152

Lady Barron:

Lady Barron Store – 6359 3503

Furneaux Tavern Lady Barron – 6359 3521

Other places to eat:

Mountain Seas Lodge (Trousers Point Road) – 6359 4553

Food Van (At the Furneaux Museaum) WEEKENDS ONLY. Usually, open around 1-5 pm. Please check the Flinders Island Community Page for most information.

Flinders Island Gourmet Retreat at Cooma House cooking school – can eat here on arrangement only, or perfect for someone looking for a hands-on experience. Further, you can also have a fully catered stay here! Phone 0408 104 995 or send an email to wendy@flindersislandretreat.com.au for bookings or enquiries.

Things to see and do on Flinders Island:

It is hard to know where to start when writing this. A naturally stunning island that lies in the shadows of Mt Strzelecki and is open to the ominous Roaring 40s weather. The ultimate destination for wildlife adventurers or to relax and reconnect. Over my two weeks on Flinders Island, I made every effort possible to find out every possible thing you could do on the island as a traveller. From hiking to thrifting to wine tasting, you cannot complain about the number of things to do and see on Flinders Island.

Hiking and walking on Flinders Island.

There are many stunning hikes and climbs on Flinders Island that will have their own subcategory. The gorgeous island is best viewed at the top of its numerous mountains and peaks.

Before embarking on any of these hikes, please be aware that your safety is your responsibility. Many tracks are not maintained or managed. Therefore the conditions may be unknown or differ from what is written below. Additionally, it is advised to not hike on any of these tracks during hot days due to bush fire risk. Take ample food and water on each trip.

Mt Strzelecki:

If you make the trip to Flinders Island, you cannot miss climbing Mt Strzelecki. An approx. 4-5 hour hike (dependent on your ability), the views at the summit are magical. Pack a jumper for when you reach the top, as it gets pretty chilly at an elevation of 756m! A steep walk awaits you, but it is well worth it. The local rule of thumb is to be at the summit by 11 am to get the best views. Pack water and a snack for your rest, but remember to take your rubbish with you. Check the weather before climbing to ensure it isn’t too windy or cloudy. Cloud cover will not affect the climb, but it will ruin the view at the top!

Strzelecki National Park and Trousers Point:

Not too much further down the road from Mt Strzelecki itself is the Strzelecki National Park. There is plenty to do here! Swim or snorkel on the beach and around the rocks, or lay on the warm stones if it is a pleasant day! Cook a BBQ lunch and head off on the Trousers Point Walk. Start the walk at the camping ground and follow the markers around to Fotheringate Beach. Allow 1.5 hours to return, and wear appropriate sun coverage. If you plan on camping here, remember to have a valid park pass.

Pillingers Peak and Counsels Peak:

Another great hike/climb. Hike to an elevation of 154m for delightful views over the island—an approximate 6km return hike on an ‘out and back’ track. Again, be careful; the trail is not maintained or managed, so we cannot permanently guarantee signage and conditions. Furthermore, if you are looking for something to add a bit more to this hike, Counsels Peak is right next door! The peak only has an elevation of 70m, so perfect for people looking for a not as steep climb. The walk is approx. 7km return (3.5km one way), also on an ‘out and back’ track. For both these walks, parking is on the side of Manns Road; there is no car park. 

Long Point:

Long Point is the perfect walk to view Whitemark and the towering Mt Strzelecki in the background. About halfway between Emita and Whitemark. Take Long Point road until you find the small car park on the right-hand side of the road. I say car park, but it is just a small area just before the beach to park. Walk from here along the beach till you reach the Point. Allow about 1.5 hr and ideally go at low tide. You can then either walk back the same way or climb across the rocks (if it is safe to do so) until you find another track, which will lead you back along the road. Conversely, if you decide not to walk, you can drive down the road and walk the short distance along the rocks to the Point. 

Patriarchs Conservation Reserve and Sellers Lagoon:

An absolute must-do for any wildlife lover! Follow Lees Road until you reach the A-frame. If you question if your car has the clearance to drive through the last bit, park on the side and walkthrough. There are toilets, a gas BBQ, a picnic and camping area, and the A-frame building. See all the memories through the photo albums inside! You will find a drum of pellets inside the door; you can feed the wallabies, pademelons, echidnas, and geese; they will eat right out of your hand! Please do not feed them anything else as they cannot digest it properly. Donations are greatly appreciated to keep this facility running. 

Patriarchs Inlet:

You can start your walk around the inlet before heading onto the beach. This desolate coastline offers the perfect backdrop for a casual stroll along the coast. You will find a small car park on the left-hand side approx. 1km away from the beach. At low tide, you can venture further to the remains of about 80 stranded pilot whales, which became beached in 1979. You will find them walking over the inlet banks westerly for around 500. Then head towards the mounds in the North East.

Mount Killiecrankie (aka K1) via either Wombat Rock or Diamond Gully tracks:

Another excellent mountain hike that you must do on your trip. Magnificent views over Killiecrankie and the northern parts of the island. On a clear day, you can even see the bottom of Victoria! You can start the walk at the picnic area in Killiecrankie Bay (the Diamond Gully Track) or in the car park at the top of Dock Road. The track starts around the ‘4WD Only’ sign opposite the car park. The highlights of this track include both the Wombat Rock (which you can see at the start of the way, and White-Eyed Man Rock (which can be seen from the sidetrack to the lookout).

The Wombat Rock Track is the shorter of the two, being approx. 1.8km in length. Allow between 3-4 hours to return. The Diamond Guly Track is approx. 5.2km in total, 3km along the beach before reaching the track itself. Allow 5-6 hours to return for this trip. 

If you are up for a longer hike, you can join these two tracks together. Instead of following the same track back down from the top of the mountain, take the opposite. Hike along The Docks track, then back to Killiecrankie or the Dock Rd car park to return to your starting point. Allow 6-7 hours for this trip. Similarily to Mt Strzelecki, be sure to pack ample water (I suggest at least two litres per person), snacks, a jumper and a raincoat. As usual with climbing mountains, check the weather before you depart. High winds can be dangerous, and excessive rain will make it slippery. 

Castle Rock:

The Castle Rock Walk is a stunning hike that takes you along the foreshore of Marshall’s bay. The rock itself is a solid sight to see! Start the walk at the Castle Walk car park on Allports Beach. Allow about 1.5 hours to return. If you do not have the energy or time for the walk, you can also drive in to see it. Take the first left-side road after Emita (if heading towards Killiecrankie). However, do take the time to explore around the rock and the beach before heading off again.

The Lady Barron Foreshore Track:

This 3.5km track along the Lady Barron Foreshore is the perfect way to inspect the natural vegetation while looking out onto the stunning ocean and surrounding islands. Get a clear view of Cape Barron Island and the other smaller islands, including Little and Greater Dog and Little Green Island. Allow about 20-30 minutes each way.

Bluff Track fitness trail:

Located in Whitemark, it is the perfect track for an afternoon walk after a gorgeous lunch at one of the nearby eateries. A 4.2km return walk, the path will take you along the beach to the tidal salt marshes. Start at the north end of The Esplanade on the beach and turn around at the blue Bluff Track sign on your left. Allow about 1.5 hours to return. 

The Furneaux Geotrail:

There are 420 million years of geological history to enjoy across the island. This trail consists of 26 stunning Flinders Island locations with interesting geological significance, either feature or virtual. The feature locations are marked with Interpretation Signage; you can explore the virtual location’s information using the Geotrail App. A great way to explore not only the island but also some of the significant geological events that have shaped the landscape into what it is today.

The best lookouts on Flinders Island.

While hiking and climbing up mountains is the most satisfying way to get to a lookout, it is not suitable for everyone. Luckily, there are many fantastic lookouts around the island that you can get to by car! You won’t get as high up as Mt Strzelecki, but you will still get some magnificent views across the island and beyond. Again, try to go on clear, sunny days. It will help ensure you get the best sights to both take in and photograph. I sadly was not so lucky with some of them, and the photos have not given the views any justice. Please be aware that most roads are gravel and can be pretty steep. Drive slowly and stick to your side (the left-hand side) of the road, as most corners are blind.

Walkers Lookout:

Not far from the centre of Whitemark, Walkers Lookout sits in the Darling Range. Stunning 360-degree views from the middle (or thereabouts) of Flinders Island. 

Vinegar Hill:

The Vinegar Hill makes for the perfect lookout over Lady Barron and the smaller Furneaux islands off the island’s south.

Furneaux Lookout:

Furneaux Lookout is not far from Walkers’ Lookout as the crow flies. However, it has advantages views over Memana and out over the island’s west. 

Mt Tanner:

In the island’s north, Mt Tanner gives magic views of Killiecrankie to the north, Tanners Bay to the south, and even to the tip of Victoria on a clear day! Further, it also has lovely views looking back across the island towards the west.

Patriarchs Lookout:

This lookout is hidden off the tourist map but worth finding! On the road towards the conservation reserve, take the left-hand road up the hill and follow to the top. Incredible, unbeatable views of Babel Island off the island’s west and Stellars Point. Well worth the detour on your way to the A-frame. 

More things to see on Flinders Island.

Furneaux Museum (Emita) and weekend food van:

The museum is a one-stop spot for all things history of Flinders Island. Explore the history of the island’s indigenous population and settlements, the shipwrecks and much more. Located in Emita, the museum is open 1 pm-5 pm every day but Mondays. Additionally, there is an extra incentive to visit on Sunday, as the Food Van will also be there! Entry into the museum costs $5. They accept cash or bank transfer. 

Visit the North East River:

The North East River should be near the top of your list on your tour of Flinders Island. Have your breath taken away by the picturesque surroundings while enjoying a picnic, walk, or fish. Camping facilities are also available.

Unavale Vinyard and Cellar Door:

If you want to indulge during your trip, this should be one of your first stops. Located only a short 5-minute drive from Lady Barron, you have no excuse to miss it. The vineyard was established in 1999 and was recently taken over by enthusiastic new owners in late 2021. Explore the vineyard and enjoy a relaxing wine tasting at the cellar door—no better way to unwind after a beautiful day down at Lady Barron. 

Explore Flinders Island by air – take a scenic flight:

It provides a unique view over the island and is the perfect way to ensure you do not miss anything! Perfect as a surprise for special someone. Flinders Island Scenic Flights, Flinders Island Aviation, Flinders Island Travel Center, Unique Charters and Flinders Island Air Charters are all companies that offer scenic flights. However, they offer slightly different experiences, so check them out before deciding. If you are looking for a more luxury charter via helicopter from Launceston with a local produce lunch, check out Unique Charters. Check out the four operators for a more general scenic flight around the Furneaux Islands. 

Mountain bike hire:

Take the path less travelled on a mountain bike! Previously run as a tour, you can now hire a TREK mountain bike to explore Flinders Island at your own pace! The owners are still helping people enjoy the island on bikes and lending a hand with food drop-offs and maps. To book, follow the link.

Golf Course and bowls club:

Why not spend the afternoon playing a round of golf? The Flinders Island Golf Course is a beautiful 9-hole course situated in Whitemark. If golf doesn’t take your fancy, check out the bowls club! An excellent place for a friendly game of lawn bowls. 

Blue Rocks:

The Blue Rocks are just one of the many hidden gems on Flinders Island. Located halfway between Whitemark and Emita, you will find a track that leads here. The track is just before (approx. 150m) the driveway with the anchor out the front (heading to Emita). The path splits in two, follow the one to the right, and you will find yourself right on top of them! A gorgeous place to visit, not only for the magnificent rock formations but also for the views of the ocean.

Thrift through the Tip Shop:

If thrifting is your thing, this is the place for you. The name says it all. The Tip Shop is an op-shop where anyone can drop items they no longer need that are too good to throw out. Open every day except Saturdays and public holidays over various hours. Mondays, Fridays and Sundays are open 1:30 pm-4:30 pm; Tuesday and Thursday 7 am-10 am; Wednesdays 8:30 am-11:30 am.

Rock jaw Tours:

This tour operator offers three unique half-day or full-day tour options. Options include history, hunting and fishing tours. Chris’RockJaw’ Rhodes operates the tours. However, you can also tailor your experience by contacting RockJaw. 

Flinders Island Adventures:

Offers fishing charters, walking tours and four-wheel drive tours around Flinders Island. They cater for all groups, big or small and offer plenty of different options within the categories above. Check out their website to find out more.

Furneaux Distillery (Wharf Shed) and Wharf Shed:

The Wharf Shed is one of the newest additions to the island and is definitely worth your time. Situated on the Whitemark waterfront, indulge in food and drink before checking out the zero-waste Furneaux Distillery. The Wharf Shed brings the best of the island together in one place—open hours change seasonally, so check the website for current hours. Bookings are essential for dinner. 

Kayak Tours – Roaring 40’s Kayaking:

This seven-day kayaking adventure is perfect for the adventurers who do not want to plan or do not have time to! Explore not only Flinders Island but also the off-shore islands in one of the most incredible ways – on the water! Guided by two experienced guides, you will have a fantastic time while on tour! Furthermore, if the weather is not great for kayaking, they improvise with some hiking! We met a group on our way up Mt Killiecrankie who were doing just that.

Hunt for Killiecrankie Diamonds:

While on Flinders Island, why not go searching for diamonds? These diamonds are a type of topaz but are nonetheless still stunning. Clear, ice blue and pink gold are the colours you can find on Flinders Island, so get hunting! The best places to search for these ‘diamonds’ include Mines Creek and Diamond Creek. You may be lucky and even find some in Killiecrankie Bay or Tanners Bay! If you cannot find any, head over to the Killiecrankie Enterprises. They have been selling these ‘diamonds’ for over 40 years! You can also hire sieves and shovels for your own search through Killiecrankie Enterprises! For only $10 you have an activity to last you the whole day at least. Give them a call on 0428 529 130 and head out to 525 Killiecrankie Road.

Parkrun at the Wharf Shed, 9 am Saturdays:

The Whitemark Wharf Parkrun takes place every Saturday at 9 am. It is a friendly 5km event that is running across the nation. You can either walk, jog, run, spectate or volunteer. The perfect way to kick off your weekend! Head to the Whitemark Wharf to participate.

Lions Community Market:

Held on numerous occasions throughout the year, the market is the perfect place to pick up some gorgeous local produce. Find them at the Whitemark Showgrounds. Check out the Flinders Island Community Noticeboard on Facebook, or ask around when you arrive for upcoming market dates.

The Purple Swamphen:

If you are looking for local handmade products for gifts or just to spoil yourself, this is the place! Operating since 2014, over 50 locals are creating these beautiful products! You can find Purple Swamphen on Lagoon Road in Whitemark. 

Strait Works Gallery (Whitemark):

Strait Works Gallery is a community-run gallery that has monthly exhibitions. Exhibition openings are usually held on the first Friday of each month from 5 pm onwards. However, if you cannot make an opening, head another time! The gallery is located just next door to Walkers IGA in Whitemark.

Wybalenna:

One of the most significant sits in Tasmania Aboriginal history. If you are interested in Tasmanian Aboriginal History, you must visit Wybalenna. This is the site where mainland Tasmanian Aboriginals were relocated too as part of George Augustus Robinson’s ‘friendly missions’. Between 1831 and 1835, Aboriginals were removed here to Wybalenna, which translates to ‘black man’s houses’ from the language of the Ben Lomond people. In 1999, Wybalenna was given to the Aboriginal Land Council of Tasmania and is now a site of remembrance of the genocide and history of the Tasmanian Aboriginal people.

The best beaches of Flinders Island.

There are many incredible beaches around Flinders Island. Many of these are on the island’s west coast, from Yellow Beach in Lady Barron to Palana Beach in Palana. Still, only a few stand out as the perfect place for a swim! Below I have listed the highly recommended beaches on Flinders Island for swimming and other water activities! 

• Lillies Beach
• Allports Beach
• Emita Beach
• Fotheringate Beach
• Trousers Point Beach
• Yellow Beach
• Killiecrankie Bay
• Tanners Bay
• Palana Beach

Camping on Flinders Island.

On a picturesque island such as Flinders Island, surrounded by wildlife and mountains, it is one of the best places to ground yourself. It is camping under the stars here, though, that will take your breath away. You can see the night sky in all its glory with zero light pollution. The island has many designated camping grounds, making it a stress-free experience. You will find three Parks & Wildlife dedicated camping areas and another three for day use only. Day use areas usually have stoves and toilet facilities. It is important to note that no camping area on the island is powered! You need to be self-sufficient. Furthermore, there are also some private campgrounds available for use. Below is the list of campgrounds on Flinders Island.

Camping in the north of Flinders Island:

North East River (Palana) – Parks & Wildlife dedicated camping area. Toilets and picnic areas are also available.

Allports Beach (Emita) – Parks & Wildlife. Gas BBQ, toilets and picnic area. Please note the campsite area is 100m from the facilities. 

Killiecrankie campground – Privately owned and operated. Only a short walk away from the Killiecrankie Bay day-use facilities. To book a spot, please get in touch with Jude on 03 6359 8464.

Lillies Beach – Picnic and camping area. 

Day use facilities – Parks & Wildlife operated.

Killiecrankie Bay – Gas BBQ, toilets and picnic area

North East River (Palana) – Toilets and picnic area

Allports Beach (Emita) – Gas BBQ, toilets and picnic area

Camping in the south of Flinders Island:

Trousers Point Beach (Strzelecki National Park) – Parks & Wildlife. Gas BBQ, toilets, campground and picnic area. Please note that you need a valid park pass for entry as it is a Tasmanian National Park. Click here to purchase.

Yellow Beach (Lady Barron) – Parks & Wildlife. Gas BBQ, toilets, overnight camping area and picnic area.

Patriarchs Conservation Reserve (Memana) – Gas BBQ, toilets, picnic area, and an A-Frame shelter. 

Day use facilities – Parks & Wildlife operated.

Whitemark Foreshore BBQ – Gas BBQ, toilets, picnic area and portable water.

Yellow Beach (Lady Barron) – Gas BBQ, toilets and picnic area

Trousers Point Beach (Strzelecki National Park) – Gas BBQ, toilets and picnic area

Essential notes on camping:

You must dispose of all rubbish thoughtfully. The best way to do this is to collect all your waste and dispose of it at one of the three transfer stations: Killiecrankie Transfer Station, the Whitemark Tip or the Lady Barron Transfer Station. 

Water. You can re-fill your water supplies in Lady Barron, the Whitemark Showgrounds or the Whitemark BBQ area. Rainwater tanks are at some of the campsites. However, the water is not treated. It is advised to boil it first before drinking.

Dump Ezy (for vans). There is a Dump Ezy station located at the Whitemark Showgrounds.

Where to do your washing? You will need a $1 coin! There is a laundromat next to Nutrient Ag Solutions in Whitemark.

Fire bans. Make sure you check the Tasmania Fire Service website if you are looking to make a campfire. It is common for total fire bans to be in place during summer. Follow the link.

Final thoughts

Flinders island isn’t a bucket list place to visit; it should be your next destination. Whether you are looking to escape your everyday life or simply looking for an adventure, this is the perfect place for it. There is nothing short of a great holiday that awaits you here. Before you go, read this guide thoroughly and keep it handy while you are there! You do not want to forget or miss anything. Moreover, make sure you take care while on this pristine island. Try to leave everything as you find it to reduce your impact. 

If you have any questions or comments, please do not hesitate to reach out to us here at Yentldoggen.com. We strive to give you the best information, and I put my heart into this one. In addition, I would like to thank a few more people who made the guide possible and our trip to Flinders! The Anderson family (my adoptive family) I cannot thank enough. Thank you to Scott and Anna again for hosting us, Hamish for letting me use your car (somewhat unwillingly), and Alex for bringing me into your family. Finally, Alex, for giving it a look over to make sure I got it correct. The best way to see an island is with a local or their knowledge. Flinders Island is like no other, and I hope everyone enjoys their time here as much as we did.

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