Things To Do
in Devonport
Devonport is a laid-back city on Tasmania's north coast where the Mersey River meets the Bass Strait. It serves as a scenic gateway to the Spirit of Tasmania ferry and nearby natural parks, offering a calm coastal vibe and heritage charm. The town is compact and walkable, with waterfront parks, cafes, and galleries.
Outside the city, rolling farmland and forested hills invite short jaunts and scenic drives through the Tasmanian countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake up to the gentle hum of coastal breezes as you arrive in Devonport and check into your boutique waterside accommodation. Step out onto the Bluff Hill Reserve for panoramic views of the Mersey River meeting Bass Strait, capturing photos of the yachts bobbing in the harbor. Feel the sea air energise you as you learn the local history from interpretive panels sprinkled along the walking trails.
Head for a leisurely lunch at a waterside cafe, sampling freshly caught Atlantic salmon accompanied by crisp Tasmanian whites. Stroll along Ironhouse Point, letting the sand sift through your toes as you watch windsurfers carve ribbons across the water. Pause at the Devonport Regional Gallery annex overlooking the beach to enjoy contemporary artworks inspired by the sea.
As dusk settles, dine at a waterfront restaurant, indulging in scallops from nearby Furneaux Islands, drizzled with local olive oil. Join a guided sunset walk along the Mersey Bluff, listening for the haunting calls of migratory birds on the shoreline. Return to your hotel to sip a nightcap on your balcony, gazing at the lighthouse beam sweeping across the bay.
Board the vintage carriages of the Don River Railway for a steam-powered journey through lush eucalyptus forest and rolling farmland. Feel the rhythm of steel wheels on tracks as you pass historic stations once bustling with timber and coal freight. Disembark at the museum station to explore restored locomotives and chat with passionate volunteers about the region’s rail heritage.
Wander back into town for a gourmet lunch at a riverfront eatery serving Tasmanian oysters and inventive salads. Spend your afternoon at the Devonport Regional Gallery, admiring exhibitions by local and national artists framed by floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking calm waters. Participate in a painting workshop or a curator-led talk to deepen your appreciation of contemporary art.
Dine at a cozy bistro featuring seasonal produce sourced from nearby farms, pairing a Tasmanian pinot noir with seared barramundi. Take an after-dinner stroll along the Mersey Esplanade to watch fishing boats light up as they head out for the night catch. Return to your accommodation and unwind with a good book or a local craft beer in the lounge area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $50-90 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city centre) | $1,100-1,400/mo |
| 🚆Monthly public transport pass | $60-100 |
| 🧺Grocery bill per week | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed coastal town with easy access to nature
- Gateway to the Spirit of Tasmania and nearby parks
- Walkable city center with cafes and galleries
- Calm, family-friendly vibe and strong seafood scene
- Limited nightlife options compared with bigger cities
- Weather can be changeable and windy
- Public transport less extensive than urban centers
- Seasonal markets and attractions can be sporadic outside peak season
Places to Visit in Devonport
Visit one of these nice places.
A commanding vantage over the Mersey estuary and Bass Strait, ideal for sunrise and golden-hour shots.
A scenic riverside stretch with boats, wharves, and pedestrian paths along the Mersey River.
Historic railcars and platforms offering nostalgic industrial photography opportunities.
Wide sandy beach and tide lines with distant hills for wide-angle coastal photography.
Food in Devonport
Devonport Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastry filled with tender scallops, creamy sauce, and potatoes; a seaside specialty found in local bakeries and pubs.
Must-Try!
Sweet, buttery tails often served grilled or in seasonal seafood dishes at waterfront shacks and seafood bars.
Toasted bread with Tasmanian leatherwood honey and local butter for a simple sweet treat.
Fresh, locally sourced river or coastal salmon prepared simply with herbs and lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering local produce, seafood, breads, and ready-to-eat treats by the waterfront.
Street stalls and pop-up vendors along the foreshore serving light bites and coffee on weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'G'day' or 'Hello'; please and thank you are appreciated in shops and cafes.
Keep noise down in residential areas; follow local rules in parks and beaches; dispose of rubbish properly.
Safety
Tipping in Devonport
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service; many Tasmanians include a small service charge in larger venues; extra tips at your discretion.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is still accepted, though fewer places may prefer cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with cooling ocean breezes; expect longer daylight, beach-friendly activities, and occasional sea breezes and showery spells.
Milder temperatures, autumn foliage around coastal hills, and fewer crowds; great for photography and hiking in comfortable weather.
Cool to mild by Tasmanian standards; occasional rainfall and strong southerlies; coastal walks still rewarding with quieter scenery.
Rising greenery, blooming shrubs, and longer days; perfect for markets, outdoor cafes, and coastal trails.
Devonport at Night
Hiking in Devonport
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short coastal trail with ocean views, suitable for a gentle hike from the town center.
Stunning canyon trail near Ulverstone with sweeping river views and forest scenery.
A longer excursion for hiking in the national park, typically a day trip from Devonport (4 hours driving round trip).
Airports
How to reach Devonport by plane.
Small regional airport just north of Devonport with domestic flights and taxi or car rental links to town.
Major regional airport about 1.5 hours’ drive from Devonport with domestic and limited international services.
Small regional airport serving the Burnie area and northwest Tasmania; about a 1.5-hour drive to Devonport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of residents are families with children, attracted to coastal living and the region’s schools.
The area draws retirees who enjoy a calm lifestyle, waterfront walks, and community events.
Residents alongside seasonal visitors and tourists, especially during ferry arrivals and market days.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular spectator and participation sport across Tasmania; local clubs and community games are common.
Seasonal matches, family-friendly games in parks and clubs.
Coastal winds and calm rivers make water sports a favorite among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Devonport.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetable dishes, salads, and grain bowls. When in doubt, ask for meat-free versions of seafood dishes or pasta.