The heritage-listed and award winning Port Arthur Historic Site is one of Australia's most visited tourist destinations.
Port Arthur History, Local Activities and Local Attractions
Port Arthur started life in 1830 as a penal settlement for second offenders whose main task was to cut timber. By 1833 it had become a full blown prison for men and boys and it quickly earned a reputation for being a “hell on earth”. Today the Port Arthur Historic Site sits amid 40 tranquil hectares of English oaks and magnificent gardens featuring numerous stabilised ruins and restored buildings from the convict era. Port Arthur Motor Inn is the only accommodation directly next to the Port Arthur Historic Site and guests can enjoy spectacular views over the site.
The Port Arthur Motor Inn is also well placed as a base to explore the rest of the Tasman Peninsula. There are plenty of things to see and do and you should allow at least a few days to explore this corner of Tasmania. The highlights shown below are all within a 10 minute drive except for the Coal Mines Historic Site which is half an hour away.
The Three Capes Track is a world class walking track with breathtaking cliff top scenery and overnight accommodation so you only need to carry a light pack.
Join Tasman Island Cruises for an award winning three hour wilderness cruise featuring the highest sea cliffs in the southern hemisphere and various marine and other wildlife.
Port Arthur Lavender is a family run lavender-inspired café and gift shop with a range of lavender based products overlooking the ocean at Long Bay near Port Arthur.
Part of the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property, the Coal Mines Historic Site comprises 214 hectares of bush with scattered ruins from early settlers and convicts.
Crescent Bay is one of the most spectacular beaches on the Tasman Peninsula with impressively high sand dunes and pristine water with scenic views of Cape Pillar and Tasman Island.
McHenry Distillery is a family owned business making a range of gins, whisky and vodka and is the southern most whisky distillery in Australia.
Be sure to stop at Safety Cove Beach on your way to Remarkable Cave or Crescent Bay to check out the white sand beach and the view.
The Tasman Golf Club course is incredibly picturesque with views over Safety Cove, Cape Raoul, Port Arthur Historic Site and out towards the Southern Ocean.
Remarkable Cave is a popular geological feature which is carved out of the sandstone cliff face by sea erosion to form a rock bridge.