Top 17 Coles Bay Accommodation Options For All Budgets

Imagine waking up and walking outside to a landscape dominated by pink granite peaks and turquoise bays, the only sound coming from the native wildlife rising with the sun and the calm ocean lapping at stunning white-sanded shores. Well, this paradise is real and can be experienced from many of the Coles Bay accommodation options.

There are countless places to stay in Freycinet, some located within the quaint coastal town of Coles Bay and some tucked into the foothills of the dominating collection of granite peaks named The Hazards. But one thing they all have in common is a sense of tranquillity and close proximity to the many things to do in Freycinet National Park.

We’ve spent many days exploring the peninsula and ticking off the myriad of walks in Freycinet National Park, and believe that Coles Bay is the ultimate location to truly make the most of your trip to the Freycinet Peninsula.

The only problem you’ll have is deciding which Coles Bay accommodation option is best for you and your budget. And that’s where we come in, we’ve researched all the best places to stay in Freycinet and with a bit of local knowledge, created a detailed list of the best options divided into budgets. Plus, you’ll find a handy summary of each area within the Freycinet Peninsula so you can easily choose the best location to base yourself for your trip.

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Everything You Need To Know About Staying In Coles Bay

Featured Coles Bay Accommodation

Picnic Island

Indulge in this incredibly unique and luxurious getaway where you’ll have the chance to experience Picnic Island exclusively between you and up to 10 friends, or splurge for this ultimate romantic getaway for that special someone.

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Where Is Coles Bay, Tasmania

Located on the east coast of Tasmania, Coles Bay is a sleepy seaside town tucked beneath pink granite peaks and overlooks the Great Oyster Bay. Bordered by the forests of Freycinet National Park and boasting breathtaking beaches, Coles Bay is a popular destination for all travellers and the best place to stay to explore the Freycinet Peninsula.

Coles Bay is the only town within the Freycinet Peninsula and is equipped with a small grocery store, several cafes and restaurants and a petrol station. The closest towns to Coles Bay with more shops and supplies are Bicheno 30 minutes north and Swansea 45 minutes south.

Getting To Coles Bay, Tasmania

Coles Bay is 2 hrs 15 minutes southeast of Launceston and 2 hrs 40 minutes northeast of Hobart. Due to its popularity, there are plenty of signs to follow to reach the peninsula but unfortunately, you won’t find any public transport option for travelling to Coles Bay. If you’re in need of a hire car, our favourite resource for finding the best deals is Rental Cars.

Where To Stay In Coles Bay

Choosing the ideal location to stay within a destination is essential for the best holiday, but it’s often difficult to get right without having visited before. Below we break down each area of Coles Bay and the greater Freycinet Peninsula so you can pick the ultimate area for your travelling style.

Coles Bay Town Centre

Situating yourself smack bang in the middle of the tiny town centre of Coles Bay allows for easy access to the few cafes and restaurants dotted about and to the breathtaking beaches overlooking The Hazards. It’s much busier within the town, with tourist traffic constantly passing by, but the views and the close proximity to the many walks in Freycinet National Park make it worthwhile.

South Coles Bay

Located just south of the town centre, you’ll find a small number of accommodation options that look back upon Coles Bay and provide the best access to the walks in Freycinet, plus the famous Honeymoon Bay and Wineglass Bay. Most are found bordering Parsons Cove, which is a 10-minute drive south of Coles Bay, and only the Freycinet Lodge is actually located within the Freycinet National Park.

North Coles Bay

Located north of Coles Bay town centre and Swanwick, you’ll find several retreats and holiday homes scattered within the forests bordering Coles Bay Rd. These are a touch closer to the action compared to Friendly Beaches while still offering that same secluded and peaceful experience. A drive into Coles Bay will take roughly 10 minutes, but most accommodation options are located close to Pelican Bay and the Freycinet Marine Farm.

Swanwick

Swanwick is a newer neighbourhood of Coles Bay, just north of the town centre and bordering Sandpiper Beach. This is a great location for a quieter stay without sacrificing beach views, and most accommodation options will be within walking distance of the water. It takes 5-10 minutes to drive to Coles Bay town centre from Swanwick.

Friendly Beaches

Technically not part of Coles Bay, Friendly Beaches is a small rural locality located just north of town along Coles Bay Rd. Staying this far north will allow you to escape the crowds and enjoy a tranquil holiday tucked into the coastal forests bordering one of the best beaches on the east coast of Tasmania. However, you will need to drive 20 minutes south to reach Coles Bay.

The Absolute Best Places To Stay In Coles Bay & Freycinet National Park

Now let’s get to the good part! After dissecting each accommodation in Coles Bay and the surroundings, we’ve put together the ultimate list of the best places to stay in Freycinet divided into budgets. Furthermore, we’ll include the area in which the accommodation is found so you can be sure you’ve found the perfect place to stay within the best area for your experience.

Best Luxury Coles Bay Accommodation

1. Picnic Island Retreat

Location: Picnic Island – 1.5 km off Coles Bay Beach
Capacity: 10 guests – 5 cabin-style rooms with a king bed or two singles
Price: $$$$ (from $2,200 for the whole island)
Beach Views: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: Off-grid
Min No. Nights: 2

Arguably one of the most unique places to stay in Tasmania, Picnic Island Retreat is like no other accommodation in Coles Bay and offers a once in a lifetime experience.

As the name suggests, Picnic Island Retreat is your very own island paradise that looks out across the magical coastline of Coles Bay and the Freycinet Peninsula. Five off-grid cabin-style rooms cater for up to 10 guests, with a large communal kitchen and living area and a shared bathroom. A water taxi is included in your booking and is the only way to access the island – which is restricted to guests only. 

On Picnic Island, you’ll find a peaceful walk that circumnavigates the small island, showcasing the beauty of The Hazards and even Maria Island and the Tasman Peninsula in the distance. In your room, you’ll also find a set of snorkels and fins so you can explore the wonders hidden beneath the water.

Note: Picnic Island is an exclusive stay, meaning you will book out the entire accommodation no matter if you have two or ten in your party.

2. Freycinet Lodge

Location: Freycinet Drive – South Coles Bay
Capacity: 2 – 4 guests – 9 different styles of cabins/lodges/pavilions that sleep either 2 or 4 guests
Price: $$$-$$$$ (starting rates range from $320 – $900 depending on the room)
Beach Views: Most Cabins have beach views unless specified otherwise
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: Travel Sustainable Level 2
Min No. Nights: 1 for cabins, terraces and lodges, 2 for the coastal pavilions

The Freycinet Lodge sits nestled into the forests of Freycinet National Park, bordering the Great Oyster Bay and providing unrivalled views of The Hazards range. A stay at the lodge varies in price depending on the style of room you choose, which range from the quaint and cosy Bushland Cabin to the luxurious Coastal Pavilion – Bay View that features floor-to-ceiling windows and an outdoor bathtub!

Each cabin, lodge, terrace and pavilion is thoughtfully styled to blend in with their natural surroundings. You’ll be gifted views of either the stunning native bushland, The Hazards or the coastline from the comfort of your accommodation and have close access to Honeymoon Bay, Richardsons Beach and the various walks within Freycinet National Park.

The accommodation is scattered around the Freycinet Lodge’s main building which is home to Richardson’s Bistro, Hazards Bar and Lounge and the Bay Restaurant where your complimentary breakfast is served. The Hazards Bar and Lounge is the perfect place to end a day of exploration as you sit outside with a glass of wine and enjoy the magical sunset over the bay.

3. At The Bay

Location: 58 Jetty Rd – Coles Bay Town Centre
Capacity: 4 guests – two bedrooms with king beds (one bedroom can be changed into two singles)
Price: $$$ (from $390 per couple)
Beach Views: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: None
Min No. Nights: 2

At The Bay is a spacious and luxurious two-bedroom home bordering the coastline and boasting unbelievable views of The Hazards and Great Oyster Bay. You’ll find it hard to drag yourself away from the spacious deck and cosy lounge room overlooking the water, but once you do you only need to walk a few hundred metres to reach the beach or the cafes within Coles Bay.

But perhaps the best part about At The Bay is the large modern kitchen that is equipped with everything you need – including an espresso machine – and two ensuite bathrooms, making it the ideal holiday home for two couples to enjoy.

Note: At The Bay is not suitable for young kids or infants, allowing guests from the age of 12 and above only.

4. Freycinet Beach House

Location: 75 Freycinet Drive – Coles Bay Town Centre
Capacity: 8 guests – four bedrooms, one with a queen bed, one with a double bed and two rooms with two single beds
Price: $$$ (from $400 per couple)
Beach Views: Yes
Pet Friendly: On request
Sustainability: None
Min No. Nights: 2 (3 during school holidays)

For two families or a group of friends, the Freycinet Beach House is a dream come true. With a split level and spacious open-plan living area, entertaining is easy and enjoyable – especially when you have sensational views of the bay and the pink granite peaks to lose yourself in.

The Freycinet Beach house features four rooms and two bathrooms, an open fireplace for those chilly winter nights and a fully-equipped kitchen and outdoor barbeque. You’ll want for nothing in this home away from home, which is mere metres from the cafes and beaches of Coles Bay.

5. Freycinet Resort

Location: Coles Bay Rd – North Coles Bay
Capacity: 2 guests – king bed in both the studio and the lodge, with the option to add a sofa bed or rollaway beds to the lodge for additional children (or one adult) over the age of 4:
Price: $$$ (from $310 per couple for the studio and $420 per couple for the lodge)
Beach Views: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: Travel Sustainable Level 2
Min No. Nights: 1

Nestled in the hills overlooking Coles Bay and The Hazards, you’ll find the Freycinet Resort hidden in its very own secluded oasis. With nothing but wildlife for neighbours, you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of this sensational location without straying too far from town. 

Each studio and lodge boasts a private deck overlooking the Freycinet Peninsula where you can watch the sun slowly drench the distant hills with a warm cuppa before enjoying a complimentary continental breakfast in the main building.

The Freycinet Resort is a short 10-minute drive to Coles Bay and an additional 5 minutes to the walking trails in Freycinet National Park, however, the resort also offers its own exclusive walking tracks that showcase their art and the native wildlife living nearby.

6. Aplite House

Location: Coles Bay Rd – Friendly Beaches
Capacity: 4 guests – two rooms with queen beds, 1 sofa bed available for an extra guest in the living room
Price: $$$ (from $340 per couple)
Beach Views: Partial
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: Travel Sustainable Level 3 
Min No. Nights: 2

You’ll feel good about your stay while also indulging in pure relaxation when you choose the Aplite House, a solar-passive and solar-powered home hidden in the coastal forests flanking Friendly Beaches.

This artistic architectural home is built solely from Tasmanian materials and offers incredible views of the native bushland and glimpses of the shimmering bay beyond. With two rooms and a fully-equipped kitchen, the Aplite House is perfect for a family or two couples in search of peace and quiet.

The Aplite House is located a 20-minute drive north of Coles Bay, but just 10 minutes from the stunning Friendly Beaches which is sometimes known to support a decent wave for surfing.

7. Parsons Cove Beach House

Location: Parsons Lane – South Coles Bay
Capacity: 6 guests – three bedrooms, two with a queen bed and one with two single beds that can be converted to a king bed
Price: $$$ (from $450 per couple)
Beach Views: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: Unknown
Min No. Nights: 2

Tucked into the trees beside the secluded Parsons Cove, you’ll find a stylish beach house overlooking Coles Bay and the stunning crystal blue water of Fisheries Beach. The Parsons Cove Beach House is everything you could want for a quiet getaway within walking distance of the Freycinet National Park trails.

The thoughtfully designed three-bedroom house is filled with light throughout the day thanks to giant double-glazed windows and in winter, you can enjoy the warmth of an indoor wood fire as you cosy up with a glass of wine after visiting Wineglass Bay or Mount Amos.

8. Hazards Rim 

Location: Freycinet Drive – South Coles Bay
Capacity: 4 guests – two rooms, one with a queen bed and one with a king bed that can be converted into two single beds
Price: $$$ (from $311 per couple)
Beach Views: No
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: None
Min No. Nights: 2

For adventurous families or couples that want to be as close to the Freycinet National Park walking trails as possible, there is no better match than the Hazards Rim holiday home. This modern two-bedroom house is a short 5-minute walk to the beginning of the Wineglass Bay and Mount Amos tracks and only a 100m walk from the secluded Fisheries Beach.

Hazards Rim is surrounded by beautiful coastal forests, with a private outdoor deck and large windows that make you feel as if you’re connected to nature at all times. It’s a sanctuary you’ll struggle to leave but if you do need to go to town, Coles Bay is only a 10-minute drive north.

Best Mid-Range Coles Bay Accommodation

1. Numie – Freycinet Peninsula Glamping

Location: 65 Flacks Rd – North Coles Bay
Capacity: 4 guests – two rooms with queen beds
Price: $$$ (from $347 per couple – minimal increase over summer)
Beach Views: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: Travel Sustainable Level 2 
Min No. Nights: 1 – 2 nights from December to February

Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of the Freycinet Peninsula by staying in the alluring Numie bell tents that keep you as close to nature as possible without pitching your own tent.

Numie Glamping allows you to experience nature first-hand without foregoing the creature comforts you’re used to. Each bell tent has an adjoining tent with a toilet and shower, plus a private outdoor dining pod equipped with a BBQ and other essentials.

An outdoor firepit is also included in your little set-up, allowing you to cosy up beside the roaring fire and look out upon Pelican Bay, with the Hazards cutting across the horizon in the distance.

Note: While this Coles Bay accommodation is more expensive than most in the mid-range budget section, I’ve included it here because the prices don’t increase drastically over summer like many of the other accommodations near Freycinet do.

2. Freycinet Stone Studios & Cottages

Location: Esplanade East – Coles Bay Town Centre
Capacity: 2 – 4 guests – the cottages and 4 of the studios have one queen bed, while the two 2  bedroom studios have one queen bed and two single beds in the second room
Price: $$ (from $210 per couple)
Beach Views: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: None
Min No. Nights: 2, 3 during school holidays

The Freycinet Stone Studios & Cottages are everything you want and nothing you don’t for an easy and simple getaway for two. Located in the heart of Coles Bay overlooking The Hazards and Great Oyster Bay, the studios are within short walking distance of the beaches and cafes and restaurants in town.

There are 6 studios and 2 cottages to choose from, each designed slightly differently yet all offering the same stunning views. The cottages are fully self-contained with a small kitchen and the studios have a little kitchenette with a small stove, microwave, kettle and fridge. Two of the studios have a second bedroom, accommodating families of 4. 

Note: The Freycinet Stone Studios & Cottages are all listed individually so choosing the one you want can be a little difficult. But for the nicest interior and great view, we suggest picking either studio 8 or cottage 1.

3. Sunsets

Location: Swanwick Drive – Swanwick
Capacity: 2 guests – one bedroom with a queen bed
Price: $$ (from $239 per couple)
Beach Views: Yes
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: None
Min No. Nights: 2

Sunsets is a unique and quirky one-bedroom a-frame house located within Swanwick, a small neighbourhood 8 minutes north of Coles Bay’s town centre. The cosy home has sensational views over Great Oyster Bay and across to 9 Mile Beach, while Sandpiper Beach is a short walk away.

This spacious, open-plan house is perfect for couples wishing to enjoy beachfront views without the crowds of Coles Bay. It won’t be hard to while away an afternoon sipping wine from the balcony or enjoying the outdoor fireplace from the sun deck in the courtyard.

4. Studio 59 Holiday Home

Location: 59 Swanwick Rd – Swanwick
Capacity: 2 guests – studio with a queen bed
Price: $$ (from $200 per couple)
Beach Views: River and lagoon views
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: Unknown (sustainable straw bale build)
Min No. Nights: 2

The Studio 59 holiday home in the quiet neighbourhood of Swanwick will be your little oasis close to all the action. Built with straw bales, this eco friendly design not only looks stunning but also keeps you cosy throughout the year.

Add a stunning view of Swan River and Moulting Lagoon and you’ve found yourself the perfect romantic getaway for two. The location of Studio 59 allows you to walk to Piper’s Beach within 2 minutes where you can enjoy a peaceful swim in the calm waters.

5. Loma Talo

Location: 5 Royle Avenue – Coles Bay
Capacity: 7 guests – three rooms, two with queen beds and one room with a double bed and single bed bunk
Price: $$ (from $240 per couple)
Beach Views: Partial (mainly mountain views)
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: None
Min No. Nights: 2

Blending modern with the traditional Tassie shack feel, Loma Talo offers all the necessary comforts with large windows facing The Hazards, a spacious entertaining deck and an open plan living for the whole family or two couples to enjoy.

The beautiful light filled Loma Talo is conveniently located just off Freycinet Drive, within walking distance to the cafes and restaurants and Richardsons Beach and only an 8 minute drive to the Wineglass Bay and Mount Amos walking tracks.

6. Archella 2

Location: 209 Hazards View Dr – Swanwick
Capacity: 6 guests – three rooms, one with a queen bed, one with a double bed and one room with two single beds
Price: $$ (from $200 per couple)
Beach Views: No
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: None
Min No. Nights: 2

Archella 2 is a newly built home in the growing neighbourhood of Swanwick, 5 minutes drive north of Coles Bay and 10 minutes drive north from the beginning of the Freycinet National Park walks.

The three bedroom house is freshly furnished with all the comforts you could want for a great family holiday. Plus, there is another almost identical 2 bedroom house on the same property, making this the ideal choice for two families or a group travelling together.

Best Budget Coles Bay Accommodation

1. Hazards Escape

Location: 29 Hazards View Dr – Between Swanwick and Coles Bay Town Centre
Capacity: 2 guests – one room with a queen bed
Price: $ (from $180 per couple)
Beach Views: No
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: Travel Sustainable Level 1
Min No. Nights: 2

Hazards Escape is an affordable and freshly furnished one-bedroom apartment a short 5-minute drive north of Coles Bay’s town centre. The cosy home has a well-stocked kitchenette that allows you to cook to your heart’s desire, and a small patio to enjoy glimpses of The Hazards range.

With everything you need and nothing you don’t, Hazards Escape is the perfect accommodation in Coles Bay for an adventurous couple who needs a cosy and comfortable space to rest after a big day of activities.

2. Freycinet Hideaway

Location: 26 Bradley Drive – Coles Bay Town Centre
Capacity: 8 guests – four rooms, two with a queen bed and two with bunk beds
Price: $ (from $194 per couple)
Beach Views: No
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: None
Min No. Nights: 2

The Freycinet Hideaway is a quirky bush cabin nestled into the forested foothills of Freycinet National Park. The four-bedroom home is an affordable and spacious option for families or a group of friends looking to save money while still staying within walking distance of the town centre of Coles Bay.

While you won’t receive beachfront views, the peaceful surrounding forest and the glimpses of The Hazards make up for it, allowing you to feel as if you’re far away from the bustle of the tourist town rather than mere minutes.

3. BIG4 Iluka On Freycinet

Location: 15 Reserve Rd – Coles Bay Town Centre
Capacity: 2-6 guests – two-bedroom, studio or camping options
Price: $ (from $178 per couple)
Beach Views: Partial
Pet Friendly: No
Sustainability: None
Min No. Nights: 1

You can never go wrong with a Big 4 caravan park and that’s no different for the Big4 Iluka on Freycinet. With prime real estate right behind the Iluka Tavern and the Granite Cafe, and across the road from Coles Bay Beach, you’re within walking distance to everything you need within Coles Bay and only a short 10-minute drive to the walks in Freycinet National Park.

The cabins range from two bedrooms to a studio, some with a peaceful deck and others with two bunk beds to cater for families of up to 6.

Best Camping Near Coles Bay

Along with the multitude of homes and hotels to choose from, you’ll also find several campsites in Freycinet National Park that rival even the best Coles Bay accommodation options for the best views.

The Freycinet National Park campground is the ideal choice if you want to stay close to Coles Bay and experience stellar views of Richardsons Beach and Honeymoon Bay from your tent or campervan. But you do have to pay for these sites and it does get extremely busy – especially during the summer and Easter holidays.

For the best free camping options, we suggest River and Rocks campsite in Coles Bay north or Friendly Beaches – which you do need a Tasmania Parks Pass but you don’t need to pay anything on top of that.

If camping is more your style, check out our detailed guide on the best camping at Freycinet National Park.

Final Thoughts

We hope that our guide on the best Coles Bay accommodation for any budget saves you countless hours of research and helps you to have the best time exploring the Freycinet Peninsula. It’s hands down one of the best spots in Tasmania to visit, with countless things to do and walks to complete. We’ve listed a few of our other Freycinet National Park guides below to help you plan your trip perfectly!

• Best Things To Do In Freycinet National Park
• Best Walks In Freycinet National Park
• Best Camping At Freycinet National Park
• Your Ultimate Guide To Hiking Mount Amos
• Hiking The Freycinet Peninsula Circuit

And as always, please feel free to drop any questions, experiences or suggestions in the comments below.

Happy Adventuring 🙂