Aerial view of Penguin, Tasmania — beach, bay and township

Local Guide

Things to Do

Penguin & surrounds, Tasmania

Penguin punches well above its weight. Within a short walk or drive you'll find world-class craft beer, Tasmania's largest market, mountain bike trails, heritage walks, and some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the country. Here's our guide to making the most of it.

Food & DrinkOutdoorsMarketsCultureDay Trips
Tasting Trail Tasmania map celebrating the producers of the North West
Food & Drink

Tasmanian Tasting Trail

Starts on your doorstep

A self-guided food and drink trail celebrating the incredible producers of North West Tasmania. From artisan cheese and craft beer to berries, honey, and fine wine — the region is packed with world-class produce. Pick up a trail map and spend a day (or two) hopping between local farms, cellar doors, and providores.

Tip: Grab a trail map and tick off as many stops as you can — there are 42 producers to discover.

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Penguin Promenade walking track with sweeping views of the bay and beach, Tasmania
Outdoors

Penguin Foreshore Walking Track

Starts on your doorstep

A beautiful coastal walk right on your doorstep. The Penguin Promenade winds along the foreshore, offering stunning views across the bay, past the beach, and through the town's charming streetscape. Keep it easy with the flat 3km round trip on the main promenade, or stretch your legs on the full 11.7km round trip all the way to Sulphur Creek. Watch for fairy penguins along the rocks at dusk, and stop in at one of the cafés along the way.

Tip: Head out early morning or at sunset for the best light and the quietest walk.

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Coastal café with coffee, pastries and ocean views at Sips Penguin
Food & Drink

Sips Penguin

2 min walk

A small coastal café in the heart of Penguin, centred around great coffee, fresh food and a space people love spending time in. Serving Industry Beans coffee, specialty iced drinks, and a rotating selection of pastries from Uprise Bakery — plus toasties, savoury toast, and house-made cakes. Out the back, a grass area overlooks the ocean that's quickly become a local favourite.

Tip: Open 7 days, 7am–2pm. Walk-ins only — no bookings needed.

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Warm and welcoming pub bistro dining room with modern Australian food
Food & Drink

Neptune Grand Bistro

4 min walk

A friendly pub bistro right on the Penguin foreshore, perfectly situated overlooking the picturesque Bass Strait. Great modern Aussie dining with all the pub favourites you'd expect, plus some wonderful fusions of Australian produce with Asian-inspired flavours. A relaxed, welcoming spot for lunch or dinner — great for families and groups alike.

Tip: Bistro open 12–2pm and 5:30–8pm daily (until 8:30pm Fri & Sat). Book ahead on weekends.

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Luxury private sauna cabin with wooden interior and steam
Outdoors

Sweaty Penguins — Luxury Private Sauna

1 min walk

A private luxury sauna experience right on your doorstep. Sweaty Penguins offers beautifully appointed private sauna cabins, open 365 days a year from 6am to 10pm. Perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the north-west coast — whether it's a solo session, a couple's retreat, or a group experience. Hot, steamy, and utterly restorative.

Tip: Book ahead — sessions fill up fast, especially on weekends.

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Children watching fairy penguins at night — photo credit: Low Head Penguin Tours
© Low Head Penguin Tours
Outdoors

See the Fairy Penguins

1 min walk

One of the most magical experiences Penguin has to offer — watch little fairy penguins waddle ashore at dusk right on your doorstep. These tiny, endearing creatures return to their burrows each evening and it's an unforgettable sight for guests of all ages.

Tip: Head down just after sunset for the best chance of spotting them.

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Three glasses of white, rosé and red wine on a barrel with fresh grapes
Food & Drink

Adelie Wine, Gin & Whisky Bar

4 min walk

A gorgeous little bar right in the heart of Penguin, just a short stroll from the house. Adelie specialises in Tasmanian and boutique wines, local gins, and fine whiskies — the perfect spot to settle in for an evening drink and soak up the relaxed coastal atmosphere. A wonderful way to end a day exploring the north-west coast.

Tip: Ask the staff for their Tasmanian wine recommendations — they know their stuff.

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Beer and wine with ocean views at Penguin Beer Co
Food & Drink

Penguin Beer Co

4 min walk

Incredible craft beers brewed right here in Penguin, with some of the best views you'll find anywhere on the north-west coast. Grab a tasting paddle and settle in — you'll be there a while.

Tip: Go at sunset for the full effect.

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Fresh prawns with ocean views at Seasons by the Sea restaurant, Penguin
Food & Drink

Seasons by the Sea Tapas Restaurant

4 min walk

A beloved local restaurant just a short stroll from the house. Fresh, seasonal produce prepared with care — the kind of meal you'll be talking about for days.

Tip: Book ahead, especially on weekends.

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Rustic farm restaurant dining with mountain views at Mount Gnomon Farm, Tasmania
Food & Drink

Mount Gnomon Farm

20 min drive

One of Tasmania's most special dining experiences — a working farm restaurant nestled at the edge of a nature reserve with breathtaking mountain views. The menu is built around fresh produce from their own veggie garden and free-range meat raised on the property, complemented by local Tasmanian ingredients. Open Saturday evenings for dinner from 6pm and Sundays for lunch from 12–4pm. Bookings are essential.

Tip: Bookings required — visit their website to reserve a table. Closed during private events.

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Steaming bowl of Asian noodle soup with soft boiled egg, coriander and chilli at Penguin House restaurant
Food & Drink

Penguin House — Asian Fusion Restaurant

4 min walk

A fantastic Asian fusion restaurant just a short stroll from the house. An impressive spread of bold, flavourful dishes drawing on the best of Asian cuisine — from fresh noodle bowls and sliders to crispy sides and hearty mains. A great option for a relaxed dinner out without going far.

Tip: Great for groups — the menu has something for everyone.

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Colourful Thai dishes including pad thai and curry at Thai Tonic Cafe, Penguin
Food & Drink

Thai Tonic Cafe

5 min walk

A local favourite serving up authentic Thai cuisine in Penguin. Perfect for a casual, flavour-packed dinner — think fragrant curries, fresh pad thai, and classic Thai staples made with care. A great option when you're after something a little different without venturing far from the house.

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Family riding orange Pedal Buggies Tasmania four-wheeled bikes along a coastal path on a sunny day
Outdoors

Pedal Buggies Tasmania

10 min drive

A brilliant family activity just a short drive away. Hire a pedal buggy and cruise along the scenic coastal paths of Ulverstone — these fun four-wheeled contraptions seat the whole family and are an absolute hit with kids and adults alike. A relaxed, laugh-filled way to explore the foreshore and soak up the fresh Tasmanian air.

Tip: Book ahead in peak season — they're popular with families.

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Pirate ship playground on the Penguin foreshore with white sand and ocean views
Outdoors

Plenty of Local Playgrounds

2 min walk

Penguin is a fantastic destination for families, with several great playgrounds just a short walk or drive away. The standout is the pirate ship playground right on the foreshore — an absolute hit with kids, with the ocean as the backdrop. A perfect spot to let the little ones burn off some energy while you enjoy a hot coffee from the famous Penguin Bakehouse across the road.

Tip: The foreshore playground is right on the beach — combine it with a morning walk along the coast.

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Artisan market stall with handmade products, jars and wooden displays at Penguin Undercover Markets
Markets

Penguin Undercover Markets

4 min walk

Tasmania's largest undercover market runs every Sunday with over 70 stalls. Fine Tasmanian woodwork, jewellery, fashion, handmade craft, homewares, and fresh local produce — a brilliant way to spend a Sunday morning.

Tip: Arrive early for the best picks.

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Golfer teeing off on a lush green golf course in Tasmania
Outdoors

Golf Courses

5–30 min drive

The north-west coast of Tasmania is home to some fantastic golf courses, all within easy reach of the house. Whether you're a seasoned player or just looking for a relaxed round with great scenery, you're spoilt for choice — with courses at Penguin, Ulverstone, Devonport, Burnie, Wynyard and Seabrook Golf Club.

Tip: The Devonport Course is known as one of the finest and most challenging in the State.

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Mountain bike at the summit with cloud-filled valley views in Tasmania
Outdoors

Penguin Mountain Bike Park

10 min drive

6km of purpose-built trails with jumps, wall rides, and flowing singletrack through the bush. Suitable for a range of abilities — a great morning out for the adventurous.

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Mount Montgomery Walk trail map — 4km, 310m elevation, 1hr 55min
Outdoors

Mount Montgomery

10 min drive

A rewarding hike through the Dial Range with stunning panoramic views across Penguin and the coastline. On a clear day you can see all the way across Bass Strait.

Tip: Best in the morning before the clouds roll in.

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The 1903 Uniting Church on the Penguin Heritage Trail
Culture

Penguin Heritage Trail

In town

A self-guided walk through 26 heritage sites around Penguin, including the beautiful 1903 Uniting Church. A lovely way to explore the town's history at your own pace.

Tip: Pick up a trail map from the visitor information bay.

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Picking fresh strawberries at Turners Beach Berry Patch
Food & Drink

Turners Beach Berry Patch

10 min drive

Pick your own strawberries and raspberries straight from the field, then reward yourself with what locals claim is the best berry ice cream ever made. The onsite café serves fresh meals too.

Tip: Best in summer when the berries are at their peak.

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Assortment of handcrafted Confectionery Anvers chocolates and truffles, Tasmania
Food & Drink

House of Anvers Chocolate Factory

35 min drive

A Tasmanian institution and a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth. House of Anvers has been crafting exquisite Belgian-style chocolates in Tasmania since 1990, using the finest local and imported ingredients. Tour the factory, watch the chocolatiers at work through the viewing window, and indulge in the incredible range of handmade truffles, pralines, and bars. The café and museum make it a wonderful stop for the whole family.

Tip: Pick up a box of truffles to enjoy back at the house — they make a perfect after-dinner treat.

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Two men toasting with Hellyers Road Tasmanian single malt whisky at the distillery
Food & Drink

Hellyers Road Distillery — Tasmanian Single Malt Whisky

20 min drive

One of Australia's most awarded whisky distilleries, right here on the north-west coast. Hellyers Road produces exceptional Tasmanian single malt whisky using pure local water and cool-climate barley. Take a distillery tour, learn about the craft, and settle in for a tasting of their award-winning range — including the iconic 12-year-old Original.

Tip: Tours run daily — book ahead to secure your spot.

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Colourful rhododendrons, lake and Japanese gazebo at Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden
Outdoors

Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden

25 min drive

A gorgeous 11-hectare estate featuring thousands of colourful rhododendrons, tranquil lakes, and a resident platypus sanctuary. One of Tasmania's hidden gems.

Tip: Spring (Oct–Nov) is peak bloom season.

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Stunning waterfall cascading through lush Tasmanian rainforest at Leven Canyon
Day Trips

Leven Canyon & Gunns Plains Caves

40 min drive

Two incredible natural wonders in one day trip. Marvel at the dramatic river and cliff-face views of Leven Canyon, then descend underground to explore the incredible calcite formations and underground rivers of Gunns Plains Cave.

Tip: Cave tours run at set times — check ahead.

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Visitors gazing up at a stunning full-dome projection inside the Hive Tasmania Planetarium
Culture

Hive Tasmania - Planetarium, Science Centre & Art Gallery

10 min drive

An extraordinary immersive experience just a short drive from the house. Hive Tasmania is home to a state-of-the-art digital planetarium — Australia's most advanced — where you can journey through the cosmos, explore distant galaxies, and witness breathtaking full-dome shows projected across a 360° ceiling. A genuinely awe-inspiring outing for all ages, whether you're a space enthusiast or simply looking for something completely different.

Tip: Book your session in advance — shows sell out quickly.

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Vintage deep sea diving suit and SS Woniora vessel on display at the Bass Strait Maritime Museum, Devonport
Culture

Bass Strait Maritime Museum

30 min drive

A fascinating museum in Devonport celebrating the rich maritime history of Bass Strait and the north-west Tasmanian coast. Explore historic vessels, vintage diving equipment, navigational artefacts, and immersive exhibits that bring to life the stories of the seafarers who crossed these treacherous waters. A wonderful outing for history lovers and curious minds of all ages.

Tip: Allow a couple of hours — there's more to explore than you'd expect.

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Historic Home Hill heritage house and gardens in Devonport, Tasmania
Culture

Home Hill Museum

20 min drive

Step inside the former home of Australian Prime Minister Joseph Lyons and his remarkable wife Dame Enid Lyons — the first woman elected to Federal Parliament. Built in 1916 and extended to house their eleven children, Home Hill survives with a large collection of original contents and offers a fascinating window into Australian political and family life in the mid-20th century. Guided tours take you behind the scenes of two of Australia's most significant public figures.

Tip: Guided tours Wed–Fri 10am–2pm, Sat 12:30pm & 2pm. Bookings preferred. Closed July & August.

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Mersey Bluff coastal headland with Aboriginal cultural heritage sites, Devonport Tasmania
Culture

Mersey Bluff & Tiagarra Cultural Centre

20 min drive

Perched on the stunning Mersey Bluff headland in Devonport, Tiagarra is one of the oldest Aboriginal-operated cultural centres and keeping places in Australia. Opened in 1976, it sits among beautiful coastal bushland where wallabies still roam, and holds deep cultural significance for the palawa people. The bluff is rich in Aboriginal heritage — middens, living grounds, and ancient petroglyphs — alongside breathtaking views of Bass Strait and two sweeping beaches.

Tip: Tiagarra takes bookings for school groups (20+) and tour groups (10+). The bluff itself is free to explore and well worth a walk.

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Don River Railway logo — historic steam train, Devonport Tasmania
Day Trips

Don River Railway

15 min drive

Tasmania's premier tourist railway, home to one of the largest collections of historic locomotives and rolling stock in Australia. Take a scenic ride along the Don River through beautiful bushland, and explore the fascinating museum of vintage trains, trams, and memorabilia. A wonderful outing for families, history buffs, and anyone who loves a bit of old-school charm.

Tip: Check the timetable before you go — train rides run at set times.

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Miniature railway locomotives at Ulverstone Miniature Railway, Tasmania
Day Trips

Ulverstone Miniature Railway

15 min drive

A charming community-run miniature railway that's a hit with kids and adults alike. Ride the scaled-down locomotives around the track and watch the volunteers bring these beautifully detailed trains to life. A fun, relaxed outing that's easy to combine with a visit to Ulverstone's foreshore and parks.

Tip: Runs on Sundays — check their Facebook page for operating times before you visit.

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Tasmanian devil at Wings Wildlife Park
Day Trips

Wings Wildlife Park

40 min drive

Home to the largest collection of Tasmanian wildlife in Australia. Hand-feed Tasmanian devils, interact with koalas, and meet a huge range of native animals. The onsite café serves lunch, snacks, and refreshments.

Tip: Allow at least half a day — there's a lot to see.

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Aerial view of the giant hedge mazes and miniature village at Tasmazia, Tasmania
Day Trips

Tasmazia

55 min drive

A wonderfully quirky Tasmanian experience — eight giant mazes set across a beautifully landscaped property, plus the charming Village of Lower Crackpot, a miniature replica village with tiny buildings, streets, and even a pub. Great fun for all ages and utterly unlike anything else you'll find in Australia.

Tip: Allow a good half day — there's more to explore than you'd expect.

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J.T. King Blacksmith mural painted on a building in Sheffield, Tasmania
Culture

The Town of Murals — Sheffield

38 min drive

Sheffield is unlike any other town in Tasmania. Over 60 stunning murals painted on buildings throughout the town tell the story of the region's pioneering history. Stroll the streets at your own pace and discover a new piece of art around every corner — it's a genuinely unique and memorable experience.

Tip: Pick up a mural map from the visitor centre to find them all.

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Vibrant rows of colourful tulips in bloom at Table Cape Tulip Farm, Tasmania
Day Trips

Table Cape Tulip Farm

30 min drive

One of Tasmania's most spectacular seasonal attractions — hectares of vibrant tulips in full bloom set against the stunning backdrop of Table Cape and Bass Strait. Walk through fields of colour, browse the indoor display of floral arrangements and local art, enjoy a Devonshire tea, and pick up bulbs to take the magic home. Also home to "The Patch", a beautiful summer garden open February through early April with picnic spots, workshops, and local produce.

Tip: Tulip season runs late September to late October, 9am–5pm daily. "The Patch" is open mid-February to early April. Book tickets online or pay at the gate.

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The Nut volcanic plug rising above Stanley beach and town, Tasmania
Day Trips

The Nut in Stanley

75 min drive

One of Tasmania's most iconic natural landmarks — a dramatic 143-metre volcanic plug rising straight out of the sea at the tip of the Circular Head peninsula. Take the chairlift to the top or hike the steep track, then walk the clifftop loop for jaw-dropping 360° views across Bass Strait, the town of Stanley, and the surrounding coastline. The charming historic village below is well worth exploring too.

Tip: Take the chairlift up and walk the loop — the views are absolutely worth it.

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Cradle Mountain reflected in Dove Lake, Tasmania
Day Trips

Cradle Mountain

80 min drive

One of Australia's most iconic landscapes. The jagged dolerite peaks, ancient rainforest, and mirror-still Dove Lake make this an unforgettable day out. Whether you tackle the full summit or just walk the lake circuit, it's breathtaking.

Tip: Check the weather forecast — conditions change fast at altitude.

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Ready to explore?

Book your stay at Penguin Beach House and use it as your base to discover everything this incredible corner of Tasmania has to offer.