Maria Island National Park
National Park · National Park in Tasmania
Written by Ben Cole· Updated Apr 2026Quick Actions
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About Maria Island National Park
A car-free island national park 15km off Tasmania's east coast, accessible only by ferry from Triabunna, renowned for extraordinary wildlife density including Tasmanian devils, wombats, wallabies, cape barren geese, and introduced bettongs in numbers rarely seen elsewhere. The island has a rich human history as a Convict-era penal settlement at Darlington, now a UNESCO World Heritage site with intact colonial buildings. Two mountains dominate the island — Mt Maria (711m) and Bishop and Clerk (620m) — offering superb walking.
About
A car-free island national park 15km off Tasmania's east coast, accessible only by ferry from Triabunna, renowned for extraordinary wildlife density including Tasmanian devils, wombats, wallabies, cape barren geese, and introduced bettongs in numbers rarely seen elsewhere. The island has a rich human history as a Convict-era penal settlement at Darlington, now a UNESCO World Heritage site with intact colonial buildings. Two mountains dominate the island — Mt Maria (711m) and Bishop and Clerk (620m) — offering superb walking.
History & Significance
Maria Island was used as a convict probation station from 1825–1832, with Darlington the main settlement. Hundreds of convicts worked in quarries and farms; the penal period was brutal but the site is now remarkably well-preserved. The island was later a grazing property and was gazetted as a national park in 1971. Darlington's colonial buildings are now a UNESCO World Heritage site within the broader Australian Fossil Mammal Sites property.
Sources & References
Getting There
Triabunna is on Tasmania's east coast, approximately 80km north of Hobart via A3 highway. Ferry terminal is in the town centre. No public transport to Triabunna; a vehicle is essential. Ferry crossing takes about 20 minutes.
Parking
Free parking at Triabunna ferry terminal. Capacity adequate for day visitors, but can fill during peak holiday periods. The island is car-free — all exploration is by foot, bike, or ferry service.
Visitor Tips
- •Book ferry tickets in advance, especially in peak season — services fill quickly. Bring sturdy walking shoes, water, and sun protection; the island has limited shade and no shops. Start with Mt Maria or Bishop and Clerk early to avoid afternoon heat and crowds. Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk — plan your spotting time accordingly. Camping or staying in historic accommodation lets you experience the island properly; day trips are rushed. Bikes are excellent for covering ground between walking tracks.
Quick Facts
At a Glance
The Place
- Significance
- National
Plan Your Visit
- Entry
- Paid
- Duration
- Full day to overnight
- Best Time
- December to February for warmest weather and longest daylight, but expect crowds. October to November and March to April offer excellent conditions with fewer visitors. Avoid June to August — cooler, shorter days, and some ferry services may be reduced. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
- Hours
- Ferry services run daily from Triabunna (seasonal schedules vary)
Location
- Region
- East Coast Tasmania
- State
- Tasmania
Good to Know
Activities
Family & Visitor Info
- Ages
- All ages; families with primary-school children thrive here. Younger children can do shorter walks or cycle around the island. Teens enjoy mountain hikes and wildlife spotting.
- Shade/Cover
- Limited shade
- Pram Friendly
- No
Food & Drink
BYO all food and water — no commercial outlets on the island. Multiple picnic areas near Darlington and along walking tracks.
Features
Facilities
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