Bicheno Blowhole & Foreshore Walk – Bicheno

Granite Rock Platforms and a Roaring Blowhole

The Bicheno Blowhole & Foreshore Walk is an easy coastal stroll linking one of Tasmania’s most recognisable natural attractions with the beaches, granite rock platforms and waterfront scenery of Bicheno. The route follows a mixture of formed gravel path, coastal track and exposed granite along the shoreline, with the famous Bicheno Blowhole as its headline attraction. When a decent ocean swell is running, waves force water through a narrow fissure in the granite, sending spray high into the air and creating an impressive display of whitewater. Continue along the foreshore toward Waubs Beach for a relaxed coastal walk that combines rocky headlands, sandy beach and easy access to Bicheno’s shops, cafes and other attractions.

Walk Overview

Terrain

The foreshore route follows Bicheno’s waterfront across a mixture of well-formed paths, narrower coastal track and sections of granite rock platform. The terrain is mostly flat and straightforward, with no major climbs. The granite sections provide the main variation underfoot and can become slippery when wet or splashed by waves. Much of the route remains close to town, so despite the rugged coastal scenery you are never far from Bicheno’s shops and visitor facilities.

Difficulty

This is an easy coastal walk suitable for most visitors. There is very little elevation gain and the formed sections of track are straightforward. A little more care is needed on exposed granite, particularly after rain or when sea spray has made the rocks wet. Families should supervise younger children closely around the blowhole and other exposed shoreline sections.

Walk Highlights

💦 Bicheno Blowhole

The Bicheno Blowhole is one of the town’s signature natural attractions and is officially promoted as one of Bicheno’s must-see sights. Ocean swells enter cracks and channels in the granite coastline before forcing water upward through a narrow opening. In the right conditions, the result is a dramatic burst of spray and whitewater that can rise well above the surrounding rocks. Every wave behaves differently, so it is worth spending a little time watching rather than expecting the biggest burst immediately.

🪨 Granite Coastline

Bicheno’s coastline is dominated by smooth granite rock formations, creating a classic East Coast Tasmanian landscape. The pale rock contrasts beautifully with the blue water and provides excellent vantage points along the foreshore. Stay away from wet edges and avoid climbing onto exposed rock when large waves are breaking nearby.

🏖️ Waubs Beach

Waubs Bay and Waubs Beach are among Bicheno’s best-known waterfront areas, with the town’s foreshore walk linking naturally into this section of the coast. The sandy beach provides a relaxing contrast with the rockier sections around the Blowhole. It is a good place to stop for a break before returning along the foreshore. On suitable days, the protected bay is also popular for swimming and snorkelling.

🌅 Bicheno Foreshore

The wider Bicheno foreshore combines beaches, rocky coves and ocean views within easy walking distance of the town centre. East Coast Tasmania specifically recommends the foreshore trail alongside the Blowhole and Whalers Lookout as some of the town’s key outdoor attractions. The result is an easy walk that feels scenic without requiring a drive into a national park.

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes – preferably with grip for granite sections
• Sun protection – much of the foreshore is exposed
• Drinking water
• Camera – particularly if a good swell is running
• Light jacket – coastal wind can be cool
• Swimwear – if conditions suit a swim at Waubs Beach

Safety

The walk is easy, but the exposed coastline deserves respect:

• Stay well back from the Blowhole opening
• Never turn your back on large waves
• Avoid wet rock platforms during large swell
• Granite can become slippery when wet
• Supervise children closely near the water
• Follow any barriers and local warning signs

Is the Walk Suitable for Children?

Yes.

The short distance, easy terrain and excitement of seeing the Blowhole make this a particularly good family walk. Waubs Beach also provides a clear destination and a good place for children to take a break. The main consideration is safety around the exposed granite shoreline, where children should be kept close.

Are Dogs Allowed?

Dog access varies around Bicheno’s foreshore and beaches. Dogs may be permitted on lead in some foreshore areas, while individual beaches can have seasonal or time-based restrictions. Check the current local signage before setting out with a dog.

Getting There

The Bicheno Blowhole is located at the southern end of Bicheno’s waterfront, only a short distance from the town centre. Access is via Douglas Street, where parking is available near the Blowhole. East Coast Tasmania lists the Blowhole at Douglas Street, Bicheno. From the Blowhole area, follow the foreshore toward Waubs Bay and Waubs Beach. Because everything is close to town, the walk can easily be combined with lunch, coffee or other sightseeing in Bicheno.

Facilities

One advantage of this walk is its location within Bicheno township.

Facilities close to the route include:

• Parking
• Public toilets in the wider town area
• Cafes
• Restaurants
• Supermarket and shops
• Accommodation
• Beaches and picnic areas

Bicheno is therefore an easy place to base yourself for several short walks rather than treating the Blowhole as a standalone roadside stop.

Combine it with Whalers Lookout

For a little more variety, add the short Whalers Lookout Walk to your visit. The lookout provides elevated views over Bicheno, Waubs Bay and the surrounding East Coast. East Coast Tasmania recommends both the foreshore trail and Whalers Lookout among Bicheno’s main nature experiences. Together, the two walks make an excellent relaxed half-day exploring the town on foot.

Best Time to Walk

The foreshore can be enjoyed throughout the year.

If seeing the Blowhole at its most dramatic is your priority, choose a day when a reasonable ocean swell is running. East Coast Tasmania specifically notes that the Blowhole becomes active when there is swell. Calmer days are better suited to swimming, beach time and relaxed coastal photography. Early morning and late afternoon can also provide beautiful light across the granite coastline.

Why Walk the Bicheno Blowhole & Foreshore?

The Bicheno Blowhole & Foreshore Walk is an easy way to experience several of the town’s best coastal features in a single outing. You get the drama of waves exploding through the Blowhole, the rugged beauty of granite rock platforms and the more relaxed atmosphere of Waubs Beach. The route is short, family friendly and conveniently located within walking distance of Bicheno’s cafes, shops and accommodation.

For an easy introduction to Tasmania’s East Coast scenery without leaving town, this is one of Bicheno’s best short walks.