Cape Barren Island
Island Remote Tasmanian island in Bass Strait
Located in Bass Strait off Tasmania, Cape Barren Island hosts seabird colonies and the native Cape Barren goose; visitors arrive for wildlife watching, rugged coastal walks and fishing charters.
Cape Barren Island is a large island in Bass Strait belonging to Tasmania’s Furneaux Group. It is known for its remote setting and small permanent population.
The island offers rugged coastal scenery, open grasslands and birdlife rather than developed tourist infrastructure. Interest is primarily for those seeking remote landscapes, wildlife observation and engagement with local community culture.
European contact and pastoral use altered the island’s economy from the 19th century onward, while an enduring Aboriginal presence has shaped its contemporary community and cultural life.
Located in Bass Strait between mainland Australia and Tasmania, the island lies among the eastern Furneaux islands off Tasmania’s northeastern coast.
- Island group: part of the Furneaux Group of islands in Bass Strait and administered as part of Tasmania
- Community: home to a small, permanent community with strong Aboriginal cultural connections
How to Get to Cape Barren Island #
Access is by scheduled flights from mainland Tasmania or by chartered boat services, depending on weather and season. Travel arrangements are typically coordinated through regional transport providers.
Tips for Visiting Cape Barren Island #
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching - the island hosts several seabird colonies.
- Check local permit requirements before landing; much of the island is Aboriginal-owned and access can be restricted.
- Weather is variable; plan for sudden fog or wind when navigating the island's rugged coast.
Best Time to Visit Cape Barren Island #
Best in summer for calmer seas and warmer conditions; access is weather-dependent.
Weather & Climate near Cape Barren Island #
Cape Barren Island's climate is classified as Oceanic - Oceanic climate with mild summers (peaking in February) and cold winters (coldest in July). Temperatures range from 6°C to 23°C. Moderate rainfall (708 mm/year).
January
January is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is the warmest month with highs of 23°C and lows of 14°C. Moderate rainfall (35 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (65 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (66 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 7°C. Moderate rainfall (64 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is the coolest month with highs of 13°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (68 mm).
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with 71 mm of rain.
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cool with highs of 15°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm).
