What better than—on a lazy hot summer’s day—to immerse yourself in the pristine clear waters of a secluded beach or waterfall? And where better to do this than in Tasmania—in fact North East Tasmania? Wild freedom with the exhilarating rush of silken pure water… While there are some (unofficial) designated skinny dipping locations in Tasmania, you may be like me and prefer individual privacy. Total seclusion with no prying eyes. A beach to yourself. A waterfall just for you.
In the summer of 2016-17 Graham and I took on a dare—to find secluded skinny dipping locations within a one-hour drive from Tin Dragon Trail Cottages. So next time you visit, why not experience the carefree freedom of leaving it all off?
Our selection does come with a small warning. While these locations are secluded most times of the year. To avoid embarrassment, it is a good idea to check thoroughly before peeling off!
Skinny Dipping Location#1 Mathinna Falls
An oasis in a working forest…
At times the falls are surrounded by clear-fell landscapes; but on the day we visited the half-grown plantation trees hid the scars of previous earth-moving activities. The cool clear waters were an invitation too good to refuse. After the first shock of an icy chill and a deep breath, the swim was relaxing and refreshing
#2 Meadstone Falls
Worth the effort…
Also surrounded by working forest and plantation, Meadstone Falls in the Mount Puzzler Forest Reserve is on of our top skinny dipping locations. It is located between Fingal and St Marys was a cool respite on a hot dry day. A warning—the road is closed and walking track is no longer maintained. A short-wheel base 4WD is needed. But what an amazing rock pool. Very deep with cool water in the depths and warm surface currents. Picnic on the rocks. Fabulous!
#3 Bay of Fires
Always a favourite…at any time of year
Touted as the hottest travel destination in the world by Lonely Planet—I am inclined to agree! But you may need to pick your time and rock pool if you want complete privacy. Certainly don’t try a skinny dip on a school holiday.
If you dabble with the paint brushes, or have always wanted to but don’t know how to start, you may enjoy our Bay of Fires Art Retreat.
#4 Lemons Beach
Popular with fishers…
You are almost certain to have a beach to yourself in the very North East. However, the beaches are popular for fishing, so watch out if you wish to avoid an embarrassing moment! Take your thermos, enjoy a picnic on the beach.
#5 Mount Paris Dam
Got to love a natural spa…
The Cascade river below the Mt Paris Dam is so close to Tin Dragon Trail Cottages—yet I never thought of jumping in before. This one is now my definite favourite: Crystal-clear water with built-in spa, the rocks aren’t slippery (in summer), very private and truly invigorating. You can picnic on the rocks, or drive to Branxholm or Derby to enjoy one of the newly opened cafes. Read more here.
*Since 2016 this location is far more popular, so not-so-private any more!
In conclusion
Finding the top five skinny dipping locations in north east Tasmania started off as a dare and became a highlight of our 2016 summer holiday season. Of course you don’t have to take it all off to enjoy nature at these fabulous secluded locations. There are little or no facilities at these places, so take some drinking water and don’t forget to slip, slop, slap to avoid the strong Tasmanian UV.
Why not buy a take-away lunch from a local cafe and ask us for a picnic basket? ENJOY!
Your own private skinny dipping location
At Tin Dragon Cottages, you can day dream or bathe under a million stars in your own private heated spa…
And then #6 Flinders Island
Flinders Island is all about clear ocean water, deserted beaches where you can safely skinny-dip, unique rock formations and wind! And, the best way to explore this unique island, is in a van. So, for two weeks in March – April 2024, we explored the island in our old Sprinter van.
