Hopground Beach, nestled on Maria Island's northwest coast, offers exceptionally clear turquoise waters within the Maria Island Marine Reserve — a protected haven for snorkelers. This long, sandy beach gently slopes into pristine waters where the marine reserve's health is immediately visible in the water clarity and abundant underwater life. Backed by bushland and with views across to the Tasmanian mainland, it's a quiet, unspoiled alternative to the busier Darlington Beach, rewarding those who make the ferry journey with some of Tasmania's finest shore-entry snorkeling in a national park setting.
Hopground Beach
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Wave Height 0.4 mSwell Period 4.3 sWind Speed 0.9 knPrecipitation 0.6 mmTidal Phase slack
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Water temperatures in Tasmania remain cool year-round (12-18°C), requiring a wetsuit for comfortable snorkeling.
Low risk: Tidal currents
Tidal currents can develop along the beach, particularly near the ferry channel; check tide tables before entering.
Low risk: Changing weather
Weather conditions can change rapidly, with southerly winds creating choppy conditions.
Low risk: Variable currents in Marine Reserve
Tidal currents can develop around the northern point of Maria Island, particularly during tidal changes. Stick close to shore in calm conditions.
Low risk: Boat traffic near ferry landing
The beach is near the Darlington jetty where passenger ferries and small craft operate. Snorkelers should remain vigilant.
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Getting in
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Entry
Hopground Beach is located on the northwest coast of Maria Island, accessible only by ferry from Triabunna (east coast of Tasmania). From the Darlington jetty where the ferry arrives, it's a short walk south along the coast to Hopground Beach. No vehicles are permitted on Maria Island.
Parking & facilities
Free parking is available at the Triabunna marina and nearby streets for ferry passengers. No cars are permitted on Maria Island itself.
A valid Tasmania Parks Pass is required for entry to Maria Island National Park. Purchase online or at Triabunna.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports