White sand, clear water and orange-lichen granite give the Bay of Fires its unmistakable look. The southern section is particularly easy to explore by road: Binalong Bay marks the southern end, while the sealed C848 continues north toward The Gardens.

How to get there

From St Helens, follow Binalong Bay Road (C850) to the coast. At the signed turn-off for The Gardens, take the C848 north. The road is sealed and continues through the southern section of the conservation area before ending at private land at The Gardens.

The northern section of the Bay of Fires is reached separately via Ansons Bay Road (C843) and Policemans Point Road. This guide focuses on the southern stretch between Binalong Bay and The Gardens.

Binalong Bay is the southern end of the Bay of Fires Conservation Area.Open full map ↗

What to see and do

Binalong Bay

Binalong Bay is the natural first stop. The beach combines pale sand, clear water and the orange lichen-covered granite that has become synonymous with this part of Tasmania.

The coastal road to The Gardens

The C848 carries on through the southern section toward The Gardens, with signed public access points and beachside campgrounds along the way. The road is simple to follow, so the best approach is to allow time for stops rather than treating The Gardens as the only destination.

Beachside camping

Designated campgrounds include Grants Lagoon, Jeanneret Beach, Swimcart Beach, Cosy Corner South, Cosy Corner North, Seatons Cove and Sloop Reef. Camping is free and no booking is required, but camping is permitted only in designated campgrounds.

White sand, water and granite rocks along the Bay of Fires
Beach, water and granite along the Bay of Fires coast. Reel footage by @thevanlifegotus.

Walking, water and wildlife

Long beach walks, swimming in protected bays, fishing, kayaking, snorkelling and diving are all possible here. Binalong Bay and The Gardens are also part of the East Coast Whale Trail, with humpback and southern right whales seen during migration periods. Dolphins and seals also occur along this coast.

How much time to allow

For a short visit, focus on Binalong Bay and one or two stops along the road toward The Gardens. Half a day gives more room for beach walks and unhurried stops. A full day suits a slower visit with more time on the coast or in the water.

Practical notes

  • Stock up on food and fuel in St Helens before heading into the conservation area.
  • Bay of Fires beaches can have steep drop-offs and rips, so assess swimming conditions carefully.
  • The northern section from the mouth of the Ansons River to larapuna/Eddystone Point lies within Mount William National Park and requires a valid parks pass.
  • Avoid driving in reserves at night where possible because wildlife is active on the roads.
  • Fire restrictions can apply at campgrounds, particularly in summer. Check current restrictions before travelling.
Before you go: check the latest Bay of Fires access, camping and safety information.

A suggested route

Start at Binalong Bay, then follow the C848 toward The Gardens, using signed public access points and designated campground areas for stops. Return via the same road to Binalong Bay and St Helens.