Tucked at the southern end of Hopground Beach on Maria Island, the Painted Cliffs are a stunning geological canvas where iron-rich groundwater has stained the sandstone in swirling shades of orange, red, ochre, and gold. This protected corner of the Maria Island Marine Reserve offers exceptionally clear, calm waters perfect for snorkelling. The rocky shoreline and shallow reef platforms are draped in kelp forests and dotted with rock pools, providing habitat for abundant marine life. The cliffs themselves — sculpted by wind and sea into honeycomb patterns — create a surreal backdrop as you drift above the underwater gardens.
Painted Cliffs
BeginnerMAYBE
MAYBE
Fair. Experienced snorkellers only.
Showing last known conditions
Wave Height 0.0 mSwell Period 0.0 sWind Speed 0.6 knPrecipitation 1.5 mmTidal Phase slack
Last evaluated
© JJ HarrisonThe spot
Community-maintained
Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
Know before you go
Logged by the community, confirmed by mods
Moderate risk: Strong tidal currents
Tidal flow through Mercury Passage can create strong currents around the cliffs, especially on outgoing tides.
Low risk: Changing tides
Tidal currents can shift around the point at the end of Hopground Beach. Check tide times and avoid swimming at low tide when the reef is shallow.
Low risk: Cold water temperatures
Tasmania's coastal waters are cool year-round, typically ranging from 12–18°C (54–64°F). A wetsuit (3–5 mm) is strongly recommended for comfort and safety.
Low risk: Rocky reef entry
Access to the water is over sandstone platforms and rocks, which can be slippery. Sturdy water shoes or booties are advised.
Low risk: Shallow reef and rock platforms
Extensive sandstone platforms and submerged rocks are easily encountered, particularly at low tide.
Low risk: Limited shore access at high tide
Entry points can be restricted at higher tides, requiring care when entering and exiting the water near the cliffs.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
4 photos from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
Take the passenger ferry from Triabunna on Tasmania's east coast to Darlington on Maria Island (approx. 30 min). From the jetty, follow the Painted Cliffs Track south along the coast for about 1.5 km (30 min walk) to Hopground Beach. The cliffs are at the southern end of the beach. No vehicles on the island; explore on foot or by bicycle.
Parking & facilities
Free parking available at the Triabunna Ferry Terminal (2 Esplanade, Triabunna). Arrive early during peak season (Dec–Feb) as spaces fill quickly.
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Maria Island National Park entry fee applies (per person). Ferry ticket is separate and purchased through the ferry operator (Encounter Maria Island or similar).
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Gallery ┬╖ 4 photos
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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