15 Best Places To Stay In The Bay Of Fires | A Local’s Perspective

There’s something magical about the Bay of Fires that just can’t be experienced on a day trip. To stay amongst the abundance of wildlife, listening to them chatter away as they begin their day. Watching the landscape unfold beyond the window as the rising sun basks the turquoise sea and fiery red rocks in a soft yellow glow. Luckily, there are plenty of places to stay in the Bay of Fires that allow you to truly experience the magic.

The Bay of Fires is like a second home to us, we visit every chance we get. And there has been little else on the northeast coast of Tasmania that compares to spending a peaceful weekend languidly enjoying the beauty and slow pace of the Bay of Fires. 

But when you’re spoilt for choice, like you are when choosing your Bay of Fires accommodation, the decision can be difficult and time-consuming. So in order to save you the hassle, we’ve put together a list of the best places to stay in the Bay of Fires from a local’s perspective. 

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The Best Places To Stay In The Bay Of Fires

The Bay of Fires is perhaps the most famous destination in northeast Tasmania, competing with the number one east coast destination alongside the Freycinet Peninsula, Maria Island and Bicheno. 

You’ll find the Bay of Fires 2 hrs 20 mins east of Launceston and 3 hrs 10 mins northeast of Hobart, stretching 50km along the northeast coast from Eddystone Point in the north to Binalong Bay in the south. Flanked by Mount William National Park and native coastal forests creeping to the fringes of the iconic orange bouldered beaches, the Bay of Fires is the perfect mix of a beach and bushland holiday.

While you could hardly go wrong with choosing any accommodation in the Bay of Fires, there are some hidden gems and certain locations that outrank the rest. Below are the top 15 places to stay in the Bay of Fires, chosen by local knowledge, friend’s reviews and our own experiences. 

* If you’d rather stay closer to nature and camp, you’re in luck. There are over 10 free campsites in the Bay of Fires that you can choose from and to decide which one is right for you, check out our guide to the best free campsites in the Bay of Fires.

Getting To The Bay Of Fires

You’ll find that the majority of the roads leading to the Bay of Fires are sealed and well-maintained, except for Ansons Bay Rd which will take you to Ansons Bay and Eddystone Point. While this road is unsealed, it is usually kept in very good condition. 

The Bay of Fires, much like the majority of Tasmania, is near impossible to get to without a car. Due to the small population and remoteness of the state, there is little public transport once you leave the major cities and towns.

If you don’t have a car of your own, we recommend booking one for your time in northeast Tasmania. You can find the best deals for car rentals below. 

Where To Stay In The Bay Of Fires

Choosing the right location is, in my opinion, the hardest part about finding accommodation on any road trip. It’s hard to gauge which little town or cove will suit your style best without having visited first. 

There are three localities (an area or neighbourhood) along the Bay of Fires that host the majority of the accommodation options, however, there are also a few tucked away in the foothills or hidden in coves that are worthy of a mention. 

To decide which area will suit you most, below I’ve written a quick guide about the different options in the Bay of Fires.

Binalong Bay

Binalong Bay is the most popular place to stay in the Bay of Fires and is the only neighbourhood equipped with any form of local businesses. You’ll find Meresta – a delicious restaurant overlooking the bay, two public toilet blocks, Aloha Dreaming Massage and the Bay of Fires Eco Tours. 

This is the busiest location in the Bay of Fires which can appeal to some. It’s also the closest area to St Helens, the nearest town with general supplies. 

Binalong Bay North

There is another neighbourhood located on the northern end of Binalong Beach across Grants Lagoon which offers some beautiful accommodation options close to the restaurant but far enough away to avoid the buzz. 

The Gardens

The Gardens is our favourite place to stay in the Bay of Fires, the verdant farmlands flowing into the azure blue ocean create a mesmerising landscape. It’s much quieter at The Gardens than at Binalong Bay as you’re 15 minutes farther north. 

Ansons Bay

Ansons Bay will give you a taste of the traditional Tasmanian shack life and offers great fishing at Policemans Point. It’s a beautiful location close to Eddystone Point and Mount William National Park, where you can hike to the top of Mt William for 360-degree views of the Bay of Fires. 

Unfortunately, you can’t reach Ansons Bay along the coast, you’ll need to head inland from Binalong Bay before turning onto the unsealed Ansons Bay Rd for approximately 40 minutes. This is the most remote option for places to stay in the Bay of Fires and will appeal to those wishing to escape the crowds. 

Accommodation in Binalong Bay

1. Bay of Fires Bush Retreat

Beginning with our favourite, the Bay of Fires Bush Retreat will bring you close to nature without foregoing any creature comforts. The retreat offers glamping and cabin-style accommodation for 2 to 6 guests, with a communal bar, full kitchen, amenities block and terrace. 

You’ll have the option to delight the senses by pre-ordering their Bush Retreat Breakfast or choosing to indulge in their Platter Bar or pre-prepared meals, all made by their talented in-house chefs. 

The Bay of Fires Bush Retreat is located 2.1 km from Binalong Bay so you won’t have any beachfront views, however, the abundant wildlife, delicious food and cosy camping feel may make up for it. 

You can also rent out the entire space, which can accommodate up to 31 guests.  

Best Bits

• Cosy Glamping tents allow you to feel close to nature without foregoing comfort
• The option to dine in with meals and platters made by in-house chefs using local produce
• Fire pits are provided and fuelled for you by the staff 
• Some local produce and drinks can be purchased here

2. Bay of Fires Eco Hut

If you’d like to get back to basics without venturing too far from town, the Bay of Fires Eco Hut could be exactly what you’re looking for. This off-grid experience is tucked amongst the thriving bushland, hidden from civilisation, yet only a 10-minute walk from Binalong Bay’s famous beaches.

Now, this style of accommodation won’t be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those looking to reconnect with nature, you’ll be in heaven. The toilet – while flushing – is an outhouse with a wonderful view, and the hot water shower is located outside on the back deck under the stars. You’ll find no internet or TV, so you can truly disconnect and enjoy the experience of living a simpler life. 

You’ll find everything you need in the Bay of Fires Eco Hut to cook basic meals and stay cosy with a woodfire heater and north-facing windows and doors that open to allow the calls of nature to surround you. 

Best Bits

• Quiet and secluded accommodation perfect for a couple
• The Eco Hut sustainably runs off solar power and its own water tank
• No distractions so you can reconnect with nature
• Woodfire to stay cosy on cool nights
• A simple and very affordable off-grid experience 

3. Kingfisher Cottage

The Kingfisher Cottage in Binalong Bay is a dream for those wishing to be directly amongst the action and mere seconds away from the fine white sanded beach. Not only that but your beloved pet is allowed to join you!

You’ll have everything you need with a fully equipped kitchen and a stunning balcony overlooking Binalong Beach. What’s more, the owners of the Kingfisher Cottage have taken significant steps in providing an accommodation that has been awarded the Booking.com Travel Sustainable Property stamp. 

Best Bits

• Travel Sustainable Property
• Gourmet coffee supplied
• Enlarged deck facing Binalong Beach
• Directly across the road from the beach
• Great location and accommodation for two couples or a family
• Pets are allowed
• Affordable considering the location

4. The Tin Shed

The Tin Shed is tucked around the point of Binalong Bay, just two streets back from the orange bouldered beach and the beginning of the Skeleton Bay walking track. As the name suggests, the Tin Shed is a converted apartment for a couple located behind the main residence where the very friendly hosts live. 

While the accommodation doesn’t have a kitchen, it does have the basics such as a bar fridge, kettle, toaster, microwave and small BBQ in a quaint outdoor setting. It’s not particularly fancy or luxurious, however, it’s super cosy and you’ll find all your basic needs for an affordable price while staying within close proximity to the iconic beaches and restaurant. 

And if you’re up for a little adventure, the hosts also run 4×4 tours around the Bay of Fires and other areas nearby. You’ll also receive 15% off your entire booking if you combine the accommodation and tour. 

Best Bits

• Perfect for a couple on a budget
• Cosy and warm hotel-style accommodation within walking distance from the restaurant and Binalong Bay beaches
• Very friendly hosts who also run 4×4 tours around the local area

5. Bush Hideaway

As you may have guessed from the name, the Bush Hideaway sits atop a hill surrounded by native bushland and looks out on the azure blue water of Binalong Bay. While it’s a little pricier than the other options for a couple, it offers more space, a fully equipped kitchen and a beautiful balcony off the bedroom that’s surrounded by trees. 

You’ll still be standing on the fine white sand of Binalong Beach within a few minutes’ walk even though the location will feel pleasantly secluded. There have been some complaints about the warmth of the home and the colour of the tank water, but if you don’t mind a tannin-stained spa bath and turning the heater on yourself then you’re going to love your stay here!

Best Bits

• Secluded and private location perfect for a couple’s getaway
• Only a few minutes’ walk from Binalong Beach
• Full kitchen 
• Stunning views from the bedroom and the balcony that can be accessed from the bedroom

6. Binalong Brae

Once a traditional Tasmanian beach shack, Binalong Brae has been completely renovated to comfortably accommodate one or two couples in a modern two-bedroom beach house. Both rooms are equipped with an ensuite and stunning ocean views from the comfort of the cosy queen or king bed. 

Binalong Brae has all you need for entertaining, with a full kitchen and a sunny deck that’s accessible from both the living room and master bedroom. Situated less than a 10 minutes walk to the beach and restaurant, this is another perfect option for those wishing to stay just slightly back from the busy main street.

Best Bits

• Pet friendly
• Large deck overlooking the Bay of Fires
• Two complete ensuites
• Relatively affordable for one or two couples
• Quiet location that is within walking distance of the beach

7. Monterey Bay of Fires

Imagine waking up and walking out a set of french doors onto your own private balcony that looks out over the iconic Bay of Fires coastline… 

Well, that’s what you’ll get when you stay at Monterey, a three-bedroom Hamptons-style beach house located a mere 5-minute walk away from Binalong Beach. This place emanates luxury with a large wrap-around deck, a private patio equipped with a hot tub out the back, and a sunny open-planned living area ready for entertaining. 

The Monterey has two master bedrooms each with its own private balcony and ensuite, and another bedroom with two bunks and its own access to the wrap-around deck. It’s the perfect place to stay for two families or a small group of friends. 

While it is a little more expensive than some other options on this list, it is one of the only pet-friendly options – and we can’t forget about the luxurious bedrooms!

Best Bits

• Pet friendly
• Large wrap-around deck overlooking the Bay of Fires
• Private balconies and ensuites for the two master bedrooms
• Hot tub in a private patio out the back
• Only a 5-minute walk to the beach

8. The French House

Located on its own 35-hectare grounds, The French House is a sight to behold and will keep you busy exploring the immaculate gardens and playing the array of lawn games provided. The 5 bedroom french-inspired home is perfect for large groups as it sleeps up to 10 people comfortably, with each bedroom equipped with its own ensuite.  

With a gorgeous kitchen and a plentiful veggie garden, you’ll likely spend most nights staying in and enjoying the peaceful courtyard and the woodfire-warmed living and dining rooms.

While The French House is actually situated closer to St Helens than Binalong Bay, it’s worth a mention as it’s the only place on the Bay of Fires coastline that can accommodate up to 10 guests. Not only that, it’s half the price of any other options in St Helens for that many people! 

Best Bits

• Beautiful french style house with its own 35-hectare grounds
• Veggie garden ready to harvest for your cooking
• Accommodates up to 10 guests comfortably
• The most affordable option for a large group (the price doesn’t change with the number of guests)
• Woodfire heaters in living and dining rooms
• The kitchen is fit for entertaining with two ovens and a high-quality gas stove

Accommodation In Binalong Bay North

9. Bailey’s Beach House

Bailey’s Beach House is a brand new modern style accommodation just a stone’s throw from the northern end of Binalong Beach. You’ll find every luxury in this stunning home that boasts beautiful natural light courtesy of large bay windows and can sleep up to 6 guests. 

While there isn’t a view of the ocean, you’ll sleep soundly listening to the waves crashing so close to the beach house. Its location offers more tranquillity than that of Binalong Bay and you’ll often find a wave worthy of a surf when the tides are right. 

Best Bits

• Private balcony off the master bedroom
• Brand new modern design home
• Located only 200m from the northern end of Binalong Beach

10. Lillybell Beach Retreat

While Lillybell Beach Retreat isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing place to stay in the Bay of Fires, it certainly makes up for it in comfort, location and affordability. The beach house is located a two-minute walk back from the northern end of Binalong Beach and is equipped with everything you could need for a weekend away. 

Lillybell Beach Retreat can comfortably sleep 7 guests with the potential for 9 with the addition of two rollaway beds. It’s a great option for families or groups that are on a budget and would like a little more peace and quiet than the bustling Binalong Bay town. 

Best Bits

• Great location and only a 2-minute walk from the beach
• Very affordable, especially for a larger group
• Fully equipped kitchen 
• Located only a 7-minute drive from the town of Binalong Bay

Accommodation In The Gardens

11. Tranquillity

The name says it all. Tranquillity is a stunning beach house perched on a hill above the beach, located in The Gardens which is a 15-minute drive north of Binalong Bay. The Gardens is my favourite area in the Bay of Fires, where rolling grassy hills meet the pristine coastline. 

If you choose to stay at Tranquillity, chances are you won’t want to leave for the entire stay. The beach house has two outdoor settings, one overlooking the coastline and the other sheltered from the wind. Each bedroom has an ensuite and a breathtaking view of the ocean.

Tranquillity is an ideal option for three couples that are looking for a peaceful beachfront getaway. 

Best Bits

• Stunning view of the coastline from the large bay windows 
• Each bedroom has an ensuite and a view of the ocean
• Located in a peaceful location away from the touristy Binalong Bay
• Large deck that is great for entertaining
• Mere seconds from the beach

12. The Cove

You’ll feel as if you’ve been gifted your very own private bay when you stay at The Cove. This enormous beach house is located on Seatons Cove, a secluded oasis that is one of the best spots to snorkel or free dive in the Bay of Fires. 

While you’ll pay a pretty penny to experience this luxurious accommodation, it won’t be for nothing. The two main bedrooms have access to their own balconies and the giant windows throughout the house allow for plenty of natural light and a breathtaking view. 

Best Bits

• Private access to the beach
• Stunning views from the bedrooms and balconies on both main bedrooms
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Multiple decks for entertaining
• Located in a secluded part of the Bay of Fires, 10 minutes north of Binalong Bay

13. Driftwood Bay of Fires

The Driftwood is a Scandinavian-styled beach house located at The Gardens, 15 minutes north of Binalong Bay. The open plan design allows for views of the ocean no matter where in the house you are. 

As long as you don’t mind a loft style for two of the bedrooms, this is a great place to stay for a family or two couples. You’ll stay cosy with the woodfire heater while looking out at the beautiful bay that’s just outside your door. 

This is another relatively expensive option, but when you’ve got a fully equipped kitchen and a large deck overlooking the peaceful Taylors Beach, it all becomes worth it.

Best Bits

• A large deck overlook the Bay of Fires
• Open plan design allows for ocean views no matter which room you’re in
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Located in The Gardens, a peaceful and secluded part of the Bay of Fires

Accommodation In Ansons Bay

14. Amazing Ansons Bay Absolute Waterfront Beachhouse

Ansons Bay offers quiet tranquillity and the opportunity to immerse yourself in a true Tassie shack town. And the Amazing Waterfront Beach House is the perfect accommodation to experience the shack life on a truly amazing piece of coastline. 

This quaint accommodation has stunning views of the bay, where you’re likely to see pelicans and the odd manta ray. The complete folding doors connecting the deck to the living area make for an ideal entertaining space. 

If you’re into fishing, you’ll love the close proximity to the river mouth and you might even catch something right out of the bay. 

Best Bits

• Private access to the bay
• Doors completely open to connect the living room to the deck that overlooks the bay
• Fully equipped kitchen
• Located in Ansons Bay where it’s peaceful with great fishing

15. Icena Farm Stay

While the Icena Farm Stay isn’t quite in Ansons Bay, it deserves a spot on this list due to the unique experience you’ll receive when you stay there. The Icena Farm offers three accommodation options for their guests. These include the quaint ‘Woolclasser’s Hut’ – a small cottage for two, ‘Platypus House’ – a four-bedroom home, and the ‘Shearers’ Quarters’ which is a collection of 6 heated rooms that share a kitchen, living and dining room.

The Icena Farm Stay will provide you with a true country experience without lacking any comfort or style. The farm is located close to the Mt William trailhead near a small locality called Musselroe.

 Best Bits

• True farm stay experience
• Quaint accommodation located on a working farm on the northeastern tip of Tasmania
• A great option for a group or a few families

Have you stayed in the Bay of Fires? We would love to hear about your experience in the comments below and if you’ve got an accommodation option that you believe should be on this list, please don’t hesitate to let us know.

Happy Adventuring!