About forty-five minutes’ drive west of the holiday park, the village of Stanley sits in the shadow of The Nut — a sheer-sided volcanic plug rising straight out of the sea. It’s one of the most photogenic corners of Tasmania and an easy, rewarding day out.
Climb (or ride) The Nut
The Nut is Stanley’s headline attraction. A steep walking track leads to the top, where a flat circuit walk delivers 360-degree views over Bass Strait and the surrounding coastline. If the climb sounds like hard work, a chairlift carries you up instead — the views are just as good either way.
Wander the historic village
Stanley is one of Tasmania’s most charming heritage towns. The streets are lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century cottages, galleries and little shops. It’s a lovely place simply to stroll, coffee in hand, and soak up the slower pace.
Eat fresh seafood
As a working fishing village, Stanley is the place for seafood. Several spots near the waterfront serve the local catch — fish and chips by the harbour is something of a tradition.
See the penguins
Around dusk, little penguins come ashore near the town. It’s a magical thing to witness — just keep your distance, stay quiet, and never use a torch or camera flash, which can harm them.
Make a day of it
On the drive between Boat Harbour Beach and Stanley you’ll pass plenty worth a stop — coastal lookouts, quiet beaches and farm gates. Table Cape, with its lighthouse and (in spring) the famous tulip farm, is an easy detour.
A relaxed plan for the day
- Morning: Drive to Stanley, climb or ride The Nut while it’s cool.
- Lunch: Seafood by the harbour.
- Afternoon: Explore the village; detour to Table Cape on the way home.
- Evening: Back at Boat Harbour Beach in time for sunset.
It’s an easy, unhurried day — exactly the kind of trip a stay at Boat Harbour Beach is made for. Book your cabin or site and start planning.
