Get sprayed by salty water from up close or witness the power of nature from a safe distance at this powerful natural water feature in a dramatic coastal setting.
Bicheno Blowhole is a spectacular natural phenomena that is powered by the waves of the Tasman Sea. Millennia of erosion has caused this coastal fountain to be moulded out of solid granite. The large, upright boulder that towers right beside the blowhole is a dramatic addition to this fascinating scene.
Drive to the far end of the Bicheno Esplanade to see the full force of the blowhole. Find a good vantage point to watch as the waves rush through the underground channel and erupt out of the narrow opening in the rock at irregular intervals. The sea spray soars high into the air before raining back down on the surrounding rocks and those standing too close.
The persistently pounding waves have smoothed much of the rocky surface the east coast into flowing lines, with smooth dips and sharp crevices, a naturally sculpted boundary between land and sea. See how many of the granite boulders resemble natural works of art, brightly painted with either green seaweed or orange lichen.
If you don’t mind getting showered by sea spray, get even closer up to play with the unpredictable eruptions of this powerful blowhole. Stay clear of the actual hole itself though, because the eruptions are powerful enough to topple you over and the wet rocks are slippery.
Explore more of the dramatic coastal scenery of Bicheno by wandering along the town’s coastal path. Look for seals on distant rocky islands in the ocean and flocks of noisy seabirds.
Come back at dusk to see the rocks take on a beautiful orange glow as the sun sets on the horizon. Wait quietly in the twilight for a chance to see Tasmania’s fairy penguins waddle across the rocks to hidden burrows in the coastal shrub. Don’t shine your torches onto the penguins, and stay still because they are easily spooked. Join a tour to increase your chances of spotting these little creatures and find out the reason behind their nightly ritual from a local guide.
The Bicheno Blowhole is freely accessible to the public at all times. You can either drive or walk to here from the center of the small seaside town of Bicheno. You can park for free at the end of the Esplanade.
