Bonnet Island

The basics

Despite the presence of a lighthouse, the island was still the site of many shipwrecks—relics of which can be seen today. In addition to those ruins, there is also an abundance of wildlife. Cruises to the island run regularly and serve as the only way of public access. A colony of little penguins (the world’s smallest penguins) has made its home here, and short-tailed shearwaters are also regularly seen on Bonnet Island during their migration.

Things to know before you go

• Bring rain-gear and sun protection depending on the weather.
• It’s a good idea to pre-book a tour as availability is limited.
• Pack binoculars for spotting seabirds.

How to get there

Bonnet Island sits in the narrow mouth of Macquarie Harbour. It is currently only accessible by tours that focus on the wildlife and teach visitors about the history of the island. Tours run from the town of Strahan on the East Coast, approximately 185 miles (300 kilometers), or a 4-hour drive, from Hobart.

When to get there

Bonnet Island is at its most pleasant in the summer months from late December to the end of February. The winter—roughly June through early September— tends to be rainy and cool, but rarely does it get bone-chillingly cold.

Things to do in Nearby Strahan

If you're visiting the island, you'll at least be making a pitstop in the small fishing community of Strahan. Popular area activities include fishing trips, river cruises, and even tackling dunes with all-terrain vehicles. It's also a great place to sample some cheap, and inexpensive, local seafood.