Port Guide | Australia | Worth a Wander
Burnie
Alexis Tonken | Editor
Published on 2025-05-19
Welcome to Burnie, that surprisingly charming Tasmanian outpost that's neither bustling metropolis nor sleepy coastal village, but cheerfully somewhere in between-like your slightly eccentric aunt who brings homemade gin to family gatherings. Once famed primarily for paper pulp and cheese (a fragrance combo we promise no longer dominates), today Burnie thrives on a feisty arts scene and postcard-ready coastal vistas practically screaming for your Instagram attention. Step ashore and shake off your sea legs by wandering downtown to the Burnie Regional Art Gallery, where local creativity will remind you Tasmania has long outgrown its historic rep as merely a penal colony with peculiar wildlife. Later, let the salty breeze guide you to nearby Fern Glade Reserve for platypus spotting-because nothing says "Welcome Down Under" quite like trying to glimpse an elusive egg-laying mammal in a riverbank hide-and-seek. You have between two and five days here, so soak up the quirky charm, breathe deeply, and embrace Burnie's proud, unpretentious invitation to relax, explore, and perhaps ponder how quickly life improves once cheese factories cease operations.
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Notes from the Editor
Burnie is known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful coastal views. Visitors should explore local attractions like the Burnie Regional Art Gallery and nearby nature reserves.
Where do cruise ships dock in Burnie?
Port Name Burnie
Country Australia
Region Oceania
Ship Terminal Burnie Port
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The port is approximately 1.5 km from the city center, easily accessible by foot or a short taxi ride.
What's the weather like in Burnie?
Best Season to Visit Summer (December to February)
Climate Temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters.
Weather Notes Summer months are typically dry; be mindful of occasional rain in February and increased humidity.
Temperature Range 60F to 75F (15C to 24C)
High Temp 82F
Low Temp 39F
Average Temp 60F
What do I need to know about Burnie?
Language English
Currency Australian Dollar (AUD)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 20,000
Timezone UTC+10
How do I get around Burnie?
Taxis, local buses, and bike rentals are available.
What are The Best Things to do in Burnie?
Discover what you should do while you're in Burnie.
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Penguin Observation at Lillico Beach
Lillico Beach, Burnie TAS 7320, Australia
Observe the unique little penguins returning to their nests after a day of fishing.
Distance from Terminal: 4.5 miles
Makers' Workshop
2 Bass Hwy, Burnie TAS 7320, Australia
Explore this interactive museum and gallery showcasing local artisans and crafts.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Cataract Gorge Reserve
34-38 Basin Rd, West Launceston TAS 7250, Australia
Experience this natural basin featuring the world's longest single-span chairlift.
Distance from Terminal: 92.5 miles
Surrealist Trail
N/A
Follow an art trail in Burnie highlighting surreal installations by local artists.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
Historical and cultural landmarks
Burnie Regional Museum
Little Alexander St, Burnie TAS 7320, Australia
Step back in time with exhibits on Burnie's rich history.
Distance from Terminal: 1.4 miles
Table Cape and Lighthouse Tour
Table Cape, Wynyard TAS 7325, Australia
Tour this dramatic cape and its historic lighthouse with stunning views.
Distance from Terminal: 9.3 miles
Highfield Historic Site
143 Green Hills Rd, Stanley TAS 7331, Australia
Explore the early 19th-century estate and its beautiful views over Stanley.
Distance from Terminal: 72 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Cradle Mountain National Park | Editor Highlight
Alexis Tonken | Editor
Published on 2025-05-19
Best Time to Go
Morning
Cost
$50-$150 USD
Activity Level
Moderate
Where to Book
On Arrival
If you ever wondered what it feels like to traipse through a prehistoric landscape-minus the dinosaurs, unfortunately or thankfully-then hike your boots into Cradle Mountain National Park. Located smack dab in Tasmania's rugged, glaciated heart, this place feels as if Mother Nature couldn't decide between Scottish Highlands brooding or Lord of the Rings whimsy and settled gloriously on both. Aim to hit the trail early morning, when wombats trundle like slightly hungover commuters back to their burrows and the mist drapes dramatically around the mountain's jagged cliffs. Booking your park entry ahead by at least two weeks is advisable-because nothing kills spontaneous adventure like bureaucratic disappointment-and budgeting AU$25 per person plus a pocketful of snacks and a flask of coffee is a solid game plan. Pack layers; Tasmanian weather swings from sunny to apocalyptic faster than you can say "marsupial." After you've trudged and gazed, and perhaps argued with your hiking partner about who forgot the trail mix, you'll come away with a story that blends rugged Aussie adventure, postcard-perfect vistas, and the sweet pride that comes from surviving yet another questionable decision involving the great outdoors.
Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden
55 Breffny Rd, Romaine TAS 7320, Australia
Visit this stunning garden featuring over 24 hectares of rhododendrons.
Distance from Terminal: 5.5 miles
Fern Glade Reserve
Fern Glade Rd, Stowport TAS 7321, Australia
Enjoy a peaceful walk along the river, known for visiting platypuses.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
Cradle Mountain National Park
Cradle Mountain Rd, Cradle Mountain TAS 7306, Australia
Hike this renowned mountain and spot local wildlife in this iconic national park.
Distance from Terminal: 52.5 miles
Gunns Plains Caves
46 Gunns Plains Road, Gunns Plains TAS 7315, Australia
Explore the stunning limestone caves with guided tours available.
Distance from Terminal: 29.5 miles
A Little Extra
Hellyers Road Distillery
153 Old Surrey Rd, Havenview TAS 7320, Australia
Discover Tasmania's largest distillery with tastings and tours available.
Distance from Terminal: 4.7 miles
Devonport Live Sound System
Devonport, TAS, Australia
Enjoy a unique music experience featuring local artists and open mic nights.
Distance from Terminal: 30 miles
Devils@Cradle
3950 Cradle Mountain Rd, Cradle Mountain TAS 7310, Australia
Visit this sanctuary dedicated to the Tasmanian Devil conservation.
Distance from Terminal: 54 miles
Overnight Trips
Tarkine Forest Adventures
Balfour, TAS 7330, Australia
Discover the breathtaking beauty and primeval ecosystems of the Tarkine.
Distance from Terminal: 54 miles
West Coast Wilderness Railway
Regatta Point Station, The Esplanade, Strahan TAS 7468, Australia
Ride this scenic railway through the rugged Tassie wilderness.
Distance from Terminal: 212 miles
Corinna Wilderness Experience
Corinna, TAS, Australia
Stay in an eco-friendly village in the heart of the Tarkine rainforests.
Distance from Terminal: 68.5 miles
Australia Regional Tip
Avoid discussing wealth, salaries, or financial matters directly. Conversations about personal finances or inquiries into someone's salary are seen as invasive, even among friends.