Hazards Beach Circuit – Freycinet National Park

Freycinet’s Premier Full-Day Walk

For walkers wanting more than the short climb to the lookout, the Hazards Beach Circuit, also known as the Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach Circuit, is widely regarded as one of the best full-day walks in Freycinet National Park. The loop takes in the famous Wineglass Bay Lookout and beach before crossing the peninsula’s forested isthmus to the quieter Hazards Beach. It then follows the coast beneath the Hazards mountain range back to the car park. It is a genuine highlight of Tasmania’s east coast and one of the state’s official 60 Great Short Walks.

Walk Overview

Terrain

The circuit can be walked in either direction, although many walkers prefer to complete it anti-clockwise. This route climbs first to the Wineglass Bay Lookout before descending to the beach and crossing the sandy isthmus to Hazards Beach.

From Hazards Beach, the track winds around the base of Mount Mayson through she-oak forest, coastal heathland and blue gum woodland before returning to the car park. Some walkers choose the opposite direction so they can tackle the more exposed coastal section before the day becomes too warm.

Difficulty

The Hazards Beach Circuit is rated Hard (Grade 4), mainly because of its length, uneven surfaces and cumulative elevation gain of approximately 350–480 metres. No technical climbing is required, but walkers should have good fitness and be prepared for a genuine half-day or full-day outing.

Walk Highlights

Wineglass Bay

The circuit includes Tasmania’s most famous coastal viewpoint from the Wineglass Bay Lookout, followed by the opportunity to descend to the beach and walk along its brilliant white sand.

Hazards Beach

Hazards Beach is a long and generally quieter stretch of sand on the western side of the peninsula. It offers views across Great Oyster Bay and a much more peaceful atmosphere than Wineglass Bay.

Coastal Forest Diversity

The return section passes through she-oak forest, blue gum woodland, coastal heath and open shoreline, providing a varied sample of Freycinet’s landscapes and vegetation in a single walk.

Top Tip

Carry everything you need for the full walk. There are no toilets, drinking-water points or other facilities beyond the trailhead, so take sufficient food and at least two litres of water per person.

What to Bring

• At least two litres of drinking water per person
• Lunch and energy-rich snacks
• Sturdy walking shoes suitable for granite, sand and forest track
• Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen
• Warm or waterproof layers in changeable weather
• A fully charged mobile phone and offline map

Safety

• Allow at least four to five hours and begin early.
• Carry sufficient water because none is available on the circuit.
• Check the weather forecast before setting out.
• Take care on granite steps and loose or sandy surfaces.
• Avoid beginning the circuit late in the afternoon.
• Consider submitting a trip-intentions form before departure.

Is the Walk Suitable for Children?

The circuit may suit older children with good fitness and previous bushwalking experience. The distance, elevation and time required make it unsuitable for most young children, although active families accustomed to longer walks may find it manageable.

Are Dogs Allowed?

No. Dogs and other domestic animals are not permitted within Freycinet National Park.

Getting There

From Coles Bay, follow Freycinet Drive into Freycinet National Park and continue to the main walking-track car park near the Freycinet Visitor Centre. The Wineglass Bay and Hazards Beach tracks begin from this area. Freycinet National Park is approximately 2.5 hours by road from Hobart and around two hours from Launceston.

Facilities

• Car parking near the trailhead
• Toilets near the car park
• Visitor centre nearby
• Limited drinking water near the trailhead
• No facilities elsewhere on the circuit
• A valid Tasmania National Parks Pass is required

See Also

• Wineglass Bay Lookout Walk
• Friendly Beaches Walk
• Cape Tourville Walk
• Sleepy Bay Walk

Why Walk the Hazards Beach Circuit?

For walkers with a full day to spare, the Hazards Beach Circuit delivers the best of Freycinet National Park in one memorable outing. It combines the iconic Wineglass Bay view, two beautiful beaches, varied coastal forest and a rewarding sense of achievement, all without requiring overnight equipment.