Things to Do in Port Arthur
Some of Tasmania’s most moving history and wildest coast — the World Heritage convict site, an after-dark ghost tour, sea-carved cliffs and the Three Capes Track.
Ways to Experience Port Arthur
Port Arthur and the wider Tasman Peninsula hold some of Tasmania’s most moving history and wildest coast. At their heart is the World Heritage Port Arthur Historic Site — a former convict penal settlement of 1830–1877 — with a harbour cruise, the sombre Isle of the Dead and an after-dark ghost tour. Beyond the walls lie sea-carved cliffs, a rare tessellated rock platform and the long Three Capes Track. Here are the experiences to build your days around.
What to Do
Port Arthur Historic Site
The convict settlement, its buildings, gardens and harbour cruise.
The historic site → After darkThe Ghost Tour
A lantern-lit evening walk through the site, told with respect.
Ghost tour → By boatIsle of the Dead
The island cemetery in the harbour, reached by a short cruise.
Isle of the Dead → Eaglehawk NeckTessellated Pavement
A rare rock platform cracked into neat, tile-like blocks.
The pavement → Sea cliffsTasman Arch & Devils Kitchen
Dramatic dolerite arches, chasms and a blowhole.
Arch & Kitchen → CoastRemarkable Cave
A stairway to a sea cave framing the wild ocean.
Remarkable Cave →Walks, Wildlife & Water
Three Capes Track
A 48 km, cabin-based walk along towering sea cliffs, starting by boat.
Three Capes → On the waterTasman NP & Cruises
Towering cliffs, seals and sea birds on a wilderness cruise.
Park & cruises → GuideThe Tasman Peninsula
How the sights link across the wider peninsula.
The peninsula →Plan Your Days
- Give the historic site at least half a day — the cruise and Isle of the Dead add time
- Staying overnight lets you do the after-dark ghost tour
- Link the coastal sights — Tessellated Pavement, Tasman Arch and Remarkable Cave — on a peninsula loop
- Check current opening, cruise and tour details before you go
- Prefer guided? See our Port Arthur tours
Things to Do — FAQ
What are the best things to do in Port Arthur?
Explore the World Heritage Port Arthur Historic Site and its harbour cruise, take the after-dark ghost tour, cross by boat to the Isle of the Dead, and on the peninsula see the Tessellated Pavement, Tasman Arch and Remarkable Cave.
How long do you need at Port Arthur?
Allow at least half a day for the historic site alone — more if you add the harbour cruise, the Isle of the Dead or the ghost tour. To see the wider Tasman Peninsula as well, give it a full day or stay overnight.
Is Port Arthur suitable for families?
Yes — the grounds, gardens and cruise suit all ages, and the peninsula’s lookouts and coast are a hit with children. See the Tasman Peninsula with kids for ideas.
Can you visit on a day trip from Hobart?
Easily — Port Arthur is about 90 minutes south-east of Hobart. Many visitors self-drive, or join a guided day tour from Hobart with the driving and bookings handled.
Port Arthur, Planned Around You
The World Heritage convict site, the wild sea cliffs of the Tasman Peninsula, the Three Capes Track and the ghost tour — with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry