Rocky Cape National Park

Rocky Cape National Park is a coastal nature reserve with wind-shaped cliffs, sandy beaches, and hills that offer views of Bass Strait and surrounding farmland. The park spans an area with varied habitats, featuring walking trails and access to caves containing archaeological sites.

The park was established as a protected area to preserve the coastal landscape and archaeological sites bearing evidence of thousands of years of human settlement. The caves show traces of Aboriginal occupation, indicating early use of the coast for food and shelter.

The area held deep meaning for Tasmanian Aboriginal people, who named it pinmatik and used its caves and rock shelters for generations.

The park is best explored on foot, with marked trails leading to beaches, viewpoints, and caves. Visitors should bring weather-appropriate clothing and remember that no facilities exist within the park, so bringing water and food is essential.

The rock formations consist of quartzite, an extremely hard stone from Precambrian times, which underwent natural folding processes to create distinctive patterns. These geological structures are scientifically valuable because they record Earth's history and crustal movements.

Location: Waratah-Wynyard

Operator: Tasmania Parks & Wildlife Service

GPS coordinates: -40.89917,145.51937

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:43