Bay of Fires is a coastal region on Tasmania’s north-east coast, extending from Binalong Bay in the south to larapuna/Eddystone Point in the north. It is recognized for white sandy beaches, clear blue water, and granite rocks marked by orange lichen. The Bay of Fires Conservation Area includes beaches, rocky headlands, coastal heath, dry forest, and sheltered bays. Binalong Bay serves as the main southern gateway, while The Gardens provides access to a more remote stretch of coastline. The area is part of Tasmania’s East Coast Whale Trail and has numerous opportunities for walking, swimming, fishing, and camping.

The region has a deep Tasmanian Aboriginal heritage and is known by the Aboriginal name larapuna. The area was traditionally used by several Aboriginal family groups, including the Panpe-kanner, Leener-rerter, and Pinter-rairer. Shell middens in the sand dunes contain evidence of hunting, gathering, and food preparation, and are culturally significant sites protected under Tasmania’s Aboriginal heritage legislation. The name Bay of Fires was given by British navigator Tobias Furneaux after he observed numerous Aboriginal fires along the coast. European settlement later brought fishing, sheep grazing, and timber cutting to the area.

The coastline provides the main focus for exploring the region. Beaches such as Binalong Bay, Cosy Corner, Swimcart Beach, and Taylors Beach are separated by granite headlands and rocky coves. The Gardens offers views across the rugged shoreline, while Eddystone Point is marked by a granite lighthouse and sits within the northern part of the coastal landscape. The surrounding waters support diverse marine life, with dolphins and seals sometimes seen near shore and humpback and southern right whales passing along the coast. Snorkelling and diving are also popular because of the reefs, underwater caves, and marine habitats.

Food in the Bay of Fires area reflects the surrounding waters and agricultural districts of north-east Tasmania. Nearby St Helens is known for its fishing industry and provides access to locally caught seafood, including oysters and other shellfish. Camping is an established way to experience the coastline, with designated sites located near beaches and lagoons. The region also has a distinctive visual identity created by the contrast between orange-lichen-covered granite, white sand, and blue water. Its combination of Aboriginal heritage, marine environments, wildlife, and coastal recreation makes the Bay of Fires a distinctive part of Tasmania’s north-east.