Maria Island National Park is reached only by passenger ferry from Triabunna to Darlington, and once you land there are no cars: families walk or cycle. That shapes the whole day. There are no shops or cafes on the island, so everything the children will eat comes over with you, and the island’s water has to be boiled or treated before drinking. From Darlington, the short township walk passes the Coffee Palace Museum and Commissariat Store with their history displays, and the Painted Cliffs circuit is a longer outing whose rock platform is safest within two hours of low tide. Children aged 5 to 17 can come in on the parks pass only when they are with an adult holding a valid vehicle pass. The trade-off right now is Darlington itself: construction works in and around the settlement, with noise and machinery, are expected to run until November 2026, and the campground showers are closed while the wastewater works go on.
Family FAQ
How much does Maria Island National Park cost?
A Tasmania parks pass is required: daily pass AUD 24.55 per person (on foot, by bus or bike) or AUD 49.15 per vehicle for up to 8 people, and it applies even if you arrive by your own boat or plane.
Do you need to book Maria Island National Park in advance?
Ferry bookings are essential to visit the island.
Can you bring your own food to Maria Island National Park?
Bring full refillable bottles; island water is not drinkable without boiling or purification tablets.