Burnie

Travel Guide
Photo provided by Tourism Tasmania and George Apostolidis
Wildlife, scenic splendour and a rich mix of artisanal goods are the big calling cards of this city on Tasmania’s northwest coast.

Burnie is a port city transformed. This former industrial heartland has turned itself into a creative hub of artisans producing everything from fine cheeses and whisky to paintings and sculptures. Overlooking the sea and flanked by native bush and waterfalls, the city’s impressive scenery provides plenty of outdoor escapes. Hike through a river valley, look for platypus and penguins and try some locally produced Tasmanian whisky.

Relax on any of Burnie’s three main beaches: Cooee, South Beach and West Beach. At the western end of West Beach, there is a treat in store for wildlife enthusiasts, the Little Penguin Observation Centre. Come here at dusk, from September to March, to see the flightless birds come ashore.

Burnie is a magnet for lovers of the outdoors. Less than 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) from the city centre is the Fern Glade Reserve. Stroll through the river valley along walking tracks lined by tree ferns and orchids. Try and spot platypus, and picnic and barbecue in the designated areas. Drive about 19 kilometres (11.8 miles) south of Burnie for the Guide Falls, an easily accessible waterfall. Wind down in one of the city’s own green spaces, such as the Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden.

Burnie’s other big draw is its creativity. Visit the Burnie Regional Art Gallery for exhibitions of arts and crafts by Tasmanian and other Australian artists. Stop by the Makers' Workshop and meet some of the artisans who work on site, including cheese makers and painters. Have a go at making paper, a tradition that has been alive in the city for decades. Tour Hellyers Rd Distillery, which lays claim to being Australia's largest single malt whisky producer.

Other city attractions include the Burnie Regional Museum. Among the exhibits is a replica of an early 20th-century street where stores are filled with period furniture and memorabilia.

To get to Burnie, fly into Devonport from the Australian mainland or sail on the Spirit of Tasmania. Then rent a car for the 30-minute drive to the city and enjoy days of outdoor adventures and cultural pursuits.

Where to stay in Burnie

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Heybridge

While visiting Heybridge, you might make a stop by sights like Round Hill Reserve and Chasm Creek Conservation Area.

Heybridge
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Ocean Vista

Ocean Vista is well-liked for its beaches. You can also take some time to explore sights in the surrounding area like Burnie Golf Club and Somerset Beach.

Ocean Vista
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Park Grove

While Park Grove might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Burnie Park and Burnie Arts & Function Centre.

Park Grove
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Cooee

The museums and gardens are just a few features travelers like about Cooee. If you want to do some sightseeing nearby, Burnie Park and Burnie Arts & Function Centre are a few top places to visit.

Cooee
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Parklands

You'll enjoy the restaurants and seaside views in Parklands. You might want to make time for a stop at Burnie Park or Little Penguin Observation Centre.

Parklands
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East Cam

Travelers like the golf courses in East Cam, and Burnie Golf Club is a top attraction you might want to visit.

East Cam
Top of the Town Hotel Motel
Top of the Town Hotel Motel
3 out of 5
195 Mount St, Upper Burnie, TAS
The price is ¥8,790 per night from May 18 to May 19
¥8,790
per night
May 18 - May 19
Stay at this 3-star hotel in Burnie. Enjoy free parking, breakfast (surcharge), and daily housekeeping. Popular attractions Burnie Regional Art Gallery and Romaine ...
7.4/10 Good! (68 reviews)
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Reviewed on Apr 19, 2024

Top of the Town Hotel Motel
Beachfront Voyager Motor Inn
Beachfront Voyager Motor Inn
3.5 out of 5
9 North Terrace, Burnie, TAS
The price is ¥15,577 per night from May 18 to May 19
¥15,577
per night
May 18 - May 19
Stay at this 3.5-star beach motel in Burnie. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (633 reviews)
"Excellent location, comfortable room, good restaurant."

Reviewed on May 9, 2024

Beachfront Voyager Motor Inn
Burnie Central Townhouse Hotel
Burnie Central Townhouse Hotel
3.5 out of 5
139 Wilson Street, Burnie, TAS
The price is ¥14,483 per night from May 13 to May 14
¥14,483
per night
May 13 - May 14
Stay at this hotel in Burnie. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (353 reviews)
"Staff where polite and efficient No cutlery and only saucer in room when Restaurant is closed made it hard to eat ( Takeaway meal) Hair dry out of order but room clean and tidy bed comfortable Shower hot and fabulous pressure"

Reviewed on May 6, 2024

Burnie Central Townhouse Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Burnie City Apartments
Burnie City Apartments
4.5 out of 5
22 Marine Terrace, Burnie, TAS
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury apartment in Burnie. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and laundry facilities. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (156 reviews)
"Property was large, clean and entirely suitable. Would definitely stay there again!"

Reviewed on May 8, 2024

Burnie City Apartments
The Duck House
The Duck House
4 out of 5
26 Queen Street, Burnie, TAS
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly cottage in Burnie. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Burnie Arts & Function Centre ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (93 reviews)
"Another fantastic stay at The Duck House."

Reviewed on Mar 31, 2024

The Duck House
Stunning Ocean View Perfect for Groups & Families
Stunning Ocean View Perfect for Groups & Families
Ocean Vista
Stay at this vacation home in Burnie. Enjoy free WiFi, in-room fireplaces, and air conditioning. Popular attractions Burnie Golf Club and Memorial Park are located ...
Stunning Ocean View Perfect for Groups & Families
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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