Freycinet National Park

Freycinet National Park is one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural landscapes — rugged pink granite peaks, crystal-clear water, and postcard-perfect white sand beaches. Named by French explorer Nicolas Baudin after his cartographer Louis de Freycinet aboard Le Naturaliste, it is remote enough to feel adventurous, but accessible enough for couples chasing a wild-yet-romantic wedding experience. Freycinet is an hour 45 minutes from Launcston Airport and two hours from Hobart airport which is more frequently serviced, and in my opinion, a nicer drive.

At the heart of it all is Honeymoon Bay, a sheltered cove that lives up to its name. It’s where I always recommend couples hold their ceremony: easy to walk to, free to access, and absolutely breathtaking at sunrise or sunset.

My Experience Here

I’ve officiated elopements on the sand at Honeymoon Bay, watched dolphins pass by mid-ceremony, and helped couples wrestle with wind and tides to say their vows with nothing but nature surrounding them. One memorable ceremony involved a trip to Schouten Island — equal parts magical and chaotic, with the boat ride turning a few stomachs. So yes, I’ve got the sea legs, but I won’t sugarcoat the swell.

Venue Highlights

• Honeymoon Bay: the go-to location — minimal walk, no permit, pure beauty.
• Wineglass Bay Lookout: iconic, but a steep uphill climb — not ideal in formal wear or with guests.
• Mount Amos: incredible views, but a 2-3 hour difficult hike — definitely not a wedding dress hike.
• Hazards Beach: longer trail, but flatter. Requires time and planning.
• Schouten Island: accessible only by boat, and it’s often a choppy ride — beautiful but not for the faint of stomach.
• Nearby resorts like Freycinet Lodge and Edge of the Bay offer ceremony sites, accommodation, and wet-weather plans — ideal for guest numbers beyond 5–10.

Planning Tips

• Best ceremony spot: Honeymoon Bay — it’s free, beautiful, and doesn’t require permits.
• Avoid the big hikes unless you’re doing a photo shoot or you’re eloping alone with good hiking shoes and stamina.
• Weather: Spring and autumn are ideal. Summer can be hot and busy. Winter is crisp and quiet, but wet and windy.
• Sunset times: Close to 8:45pm through the height of summer and just before 5pm in winter — check local sunset schedules and allow for time to walk back out of the park before dark. If you’re at Honeymoon Bay it’s only a 5 minute walk.
• Guest numbers: Keep it intimate elopement (with 2-8 guests or so) if you want a ceremony inside the park without a permit. For more than that, book a resort venue with the co-ordinators and they can help you with permits. I’m licensed to operate in the park, but you still need a permit to hold an event.
• Vendors: Most experienced wedding vendors will travel from Hobart or Launceston. The east coast locals are kind and helpful, but the broader vendor base is found in Tasmania’s bigger cities.
• Accommodation: Book early. Saffire, Freycinet Lodge, and Edge of the Bay Resort are the most popular wedding-friendly options.
• Parking and access: Coles Bay and the National Park has limited parking during peak seasons. Aim for weekday weddings if possible.