Cape Hauy Hike from Hobart | Tasmania
- Explore part of the famous Three Capes Track
- Hike the Cape Hauy Track (approx. 9.4 km / 4 hrs return)
- Spectacular views of “The Candlestick” & “Totem Pole” sea stacks
- Visit Fortescue Bay – crystal clear water & white sand
- Relax at Bangor Vineyard Winery with a glass of wine or a tasting
Package Options
Product Info
We start from Hobart and head straight to the breathtaking Tasman Peninsula, home to towering sea cliffs, incredible rock formations, and some of the most ruggedly beautiful coastline in Australia.
After a scenic drive with a coffee stop, arrive at Fortescue Bay in the Tasman National Park, the starting point of your hike. The return hike is approximately 9.4 km (around 4 hours) and includes plenty of stairs and undulating sections, a rewarding challenge for active adventurers.
Follow a well-maintained track that winds through forest, woodland, and coastal heath, opening out to spectacular cliffs and sweeping ocean views. Along the way, we’ll take plenty of rest breaks to soak in the scenery and the wild beauty of the Tasman Sea crashing below.
The track leads all the way to the Cape Hauy lookout, where the famous “Candlestick” and “Totem Pole” sea stacks rise spectacularly from the ocean more than 100m below. When you’ve had your fill of this spectacular view, retrace your steps back to Fortescue Bay.
After the hike, head back to Fortescue Bay for a well-earned break. Cool off with a swim, dip your toes in the water, or just unwind in the peaceful surroundings of the forest and National Park.
On the drive back to Hobart, stop at Bangor Vineyard Winery, a local favorite overlooking Boomer Bay. Reward your efforts with a glass of wine on the deck, try a wine tasting, or grab a bite to eat. Then, continue onto Hobart, arriving in the late afternoon with tired legs and the satisfaction of having tackled one of Tasmania’s most rewarding coastal walks.
Difficulty & Suitability:
This hike is rated moderate. The track covers about 9.4 km return and takes around 4 hours. It features many stairs and some uneven, undulating terrain, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended. As with all our tours, you’re free to turn around and head back to the start at any point. If you prefer, you can spend time relaxing at Fortescue Bay, a stunning spot to soak up Tasmania’s great outdoors, enjoy the crystal-clear water, or simply unwind in nature. This flexibility means the walk is suitable for confident walkers who want a rewarding challenge, but also welcomes those who prefer a gentler pace or a shorter adventure.
Cape Hauy Hike
Cape Hauy Hike
Cape Hauy Hike
Hike the Cape Hauy Track
Hike the Cape Hauy Track
Stunning views along the track
Local wildlife along the way
Beautiful Fortescue Bay - a refreshing swim at the end of the hike
Bangor Winery - a short stop to refresh and relax on the return to Hobart
Cheers! Enjoy your achievement at Bangor Winery
Purchase Notice
- Our general meeting point is at the Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre, 20 Davey Street, Hobart, 7.25 AM. Please arrive 10 minutes early, ready to depart promptly
- The hike is approximately 9.4 km and takes around 4 hours
- The trail includes plenty of stairs and undulating sections
- Suitable for active adventurers
- Children under 8 years not permitted to travel
Reminders
Please arrive at the designated location 10 minute(s) before the scheduled departure time, as the tour will depart on time
Our general meeting point is at the Tasmanian Travel & Information Centre, 20 Davey Street, Hobart, 7.25 AM. Please arrive 10 minutes early, ready to depart promptly.
Cancellation Policy
- Cancellations 3 day(s) (inclusive) before the selected date are allowed. Unused orders can be canceled for free
- Cancellation is not allowed between 0–2 days from the selected date. Orders cannot be canceled or modified, and refunds will not be granted.
- Due to time zone differences, the confirmed cancellation date is based on the supplier’s local time. Please allow 2–5 business days to process your cancellation request, after which the cancellation fee will be charged according to the product’s cancellation policy. Once your refund request is confirmed, KKday will initiate the refund to your original payment method within 15 days. The actual refund timing depends on your card-issuing bank’s policy.
FAQ
1. How does the Cape Hauy hike compare to Cape Raoul for hikers?
The Cape Hauy hike is a celebrated section of Tasmania's Three Capes Track, known for its dramatic towering sea cliffs and unique sea stacks like “The Candlestick” and “Totem Pole.” It is often highlighted as one of the island's "60 Great Short Walks." While both offer stunning coastal scenery in Tasmania, Cape Hauy delivers a distinct experience with its specific challenging yet rewarding features, including numerous stairs and iconic rock formations.
2. How challenging are the stairs on the Cape Hauy hike?
The Cape Hauy hike is well-known for featuring "plenty of stairs," contributing to its reputation as a moderately challenging walk. Hikers should be prepared for significant elevation changes due to these stairs, which are an integral part of accessing the dramatic sea cliffs and spectacular views. The entire track is approximately 9.4 km (5.8 miles) return and typically takes around 4 hours to complete.
3. Is the Cape Hauy hike considered one of Tasmania's most iconic walks?
Yes, the Cape Hauy hike is widely considered one of Tasmania's most iconic and renowned walks. It is a dramatic section of the famous Three Capes Track and is also highlighted as one of the island's celebrated "60 Great Short Walks." Its towering sea cliffs, wild ocean views, and distinct sea stacks make it a memorable stand-alone day walk, showcasing Tasmania's rugged coastal beauty.
4. What is the difficulty level of the Cape Hauy section of the Three Capes Track?
The Cape Hauy section is considered a moderately challenging day walk. While it is part of the longer Three Capes Track, it can be enjoyed as a stand-alone hike. The track is approximately 9.4 km (5.8 miles) return and typically takes around 4 hours. Hikers should be prepared for significant elevation changes, particularly due to the "plenty of stairs" mentioned, offering a taste of Tasmania's wild and rugged coastal terrain.
5. What is the best season to experience the Cape Hauy hike?
While the product description does not explicitly state a best season, the Cape Hauy hike offers dramatic towering sea cliffs and wild ocean views, making it enjoyable across various times of the year, weather permitting. Given its coastal nature, clear conditions would enhance the spectacular views of “The Candlestick” and “Totem Pole” sea stacks. Hikers should always be prepared for changing weather common in Tasmania.
6. What scenic views and features can be seen on the Cape Hauy hike?
The Cape Hauy hike offers spectacular views of towering sea cliffs and the wild ocean. Key features include the dramatic sea stacks known as “The Candlestick” and “Totem Pole,” which are iconic photographic subjects. Additionally, the experience includes a visit to Fortescue Bay, renowned for its crystal clear water and white sand. These elements combine to showcase Tasmania's rugged coastal beauty.
7. How long does the Cape Hauy hike typically take to complete?
The Cape Hauy Track is approximately 9.4 kilometers (5.8 miles) return. Hikers should expect the journey to take approximately 4 hours to complete. This duration allows for enjoying the spectacular views, navigating the numerous stairs, and experiencing the dramatic coastal landscape, including the famous “The Candlestick” and “Totem Pole” sea stacks, at a comfortable pace.
8. Besides the main trail, what other experiences are included with the Cape Hauy hike?
In addition to exploring the dramatic Cape Hauy Track itself, the experience includes a visit to Fortescue Bay, known for its crystal clear water and white sand, offering a chance to relax by the shore. Furthermore, the day often concludes with a relaxing stop at Bangor Vineyard Winery, where you can enjoy a glass of wine or a tasting, providing a pleasant way to unwind after the hike.
