Calm water lapping around rocks on a sandy beach as the sun sets
King Island Porkys Beach 2000 x 1499

King Island Reserves

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About

​​​​King Island lies in Bass Strait nestled between Tasmania and Victoria. It is the largest of four islands known as the New Year Group.

Often referred to as ‘little Tasmania’, King Island features a rugged, windswept west coast contrasted by a calmer eastern coastline with white beaches. ​

​While King Island is prized for its cheese, sea food and golf courses, there are a number of unique reserves on the island that are managed by the Tasmania Parks and Wildlife Service.​​

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including swimming, bushwalking, surfing, fishing and bird watching.

Experiences​

Lavinia State Reserve

This spectacular reserve features diverse coastal and bush scenery, abundant wildlife and an ecologically significant lagoon and wetland system. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Penny’s Lagoon or take a leisurely walk along the Sea Elephant River to observe the islands varied bird life.

Seal Rocks State Reserve

Walk the 80m easy path to the viewing platform overlooking the rugged Southern Ocean or visit the fascinating Calcified Forest​ where you will marvel at the root systems of an ancient forest.  For a more adventurous walk, consider the Clifftop-Copperhead Walk or Caves Creek Track, both offering expansive views of the steep cliffs and the Southern Ocean.

Cape Wickham State Reserve

The famous Cape Wickham Lighthouse at 48 metres high is the tallest in Australia. Standing on the northern tip of the island it guards the entrance to the Bass Strait. 

King Island Experiences:

King Island

Cape Wickham State Reserve

Constructed in 1861 the Cape Wickham Lighthouse is the tallest in Australia. The lighthouse lies within the Cape Wickham State Reserve, surrounded by the Cape Wickham Conservation Area.

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King Island

Lavinia State Reserve

Lavinia State Reserve is one of the few remaining areas of native vegetation on King Island and listed under the Ramsar Convention as a Wetland of International Importance.

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King Island

Seal Rocks State Reserve

In the south-west corner of King Island is Seal Rocks State Reserve. Here you will find coastal cliffs, a 7000 year old calcified forest, and beautiful, remote coastal scrub and heathland.

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