Most visitors need a valid visa or ETA. Check Australian Department of Home Affairs.

Is Old Beach safe for solo travelers?

Yes, it's very safe. Usual precautions apply.

Can I swim in the Derwent River?

Swimming is possible but water quality varies; check local advisories. Popular spots are upstream.

Are there grocery stores?

A small general store in Old Beach; full supermarkets in Glenorchy (5 min drive).

What wildlife might I see?

Eastern grey kangaroos, pademelons, Tasmanian native hens, and many bird species.

Is public transport reliable?

Buses run weekdays with limited weekend service. A car is recommended.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Yes, coverage is good with Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.

What's the best way to get from Hobart Airport?

Rent a car or take a shuttle/taxi (approx. 30 min drive).

Old Beach

SuburbHobart, Tasmania

Old Beach is a SUB AREA in Hobart, Tasmania.

Old Beach, a serene suburb on the eastern shore of the Derwent River, offers a peaceful escape just 20 minutes from Hobart. This riverside haven is perfect for travelers seeking tranquility, with gentle walking trails along the water, abundant birdlife, and stunning views of kunanyi/Mount Wellington. The area's historic charm is evident in its well-preserved 19th-century farmhouses and the nearby Bowen Bridge. Spend lazy afternoons fishing off the jetty, kayaking in the calm estuary, or picnicking at the Old Beach Reserve. The local community is warm and welcoming, with a small general store and a popular pub serving hearty Tasmanian fare. While not a tourist hub, Old Beach is an ideal base for exploring the Huon Valley, Bruny Island, and the Tasman Peninsula. Its proximity to Hobart means you can enjoy city amenities while retreating to a quiet, nature-filled setting. Don't miss the sunset over the river—it's a magical end to any day.

Best time to visit Old Beach

Summer (December to February) offers warm, sunny days perfect for river activities and outdoor dining. Autumn (March to May) brings mild weather and fewer crowds. Spring (September to November) is lovely with blooming gardens and baby wildlife. Winter (June to August) is cool and quiet, ideal for cozy pub lunches and storm-watching.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Overcast
Temperature: 21°
Feels like: 20°
Humidity: 39%
Wind: 8 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 12-18°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Great for hiking

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

HBA

Hobart International Airport

International

25 km away

LST

Launceston Airport

Domestic

200 km away

Getting around

"A car is essential for exploring Old Beach and surrounds. The Metro Tasmania bus service (route 522/523) connects to Hobart CBD (30 min). Taxis and rideshares (Uber) are available but limited. Bicycle-friendly roads with some dedicated paths. Parking is free and plentiful. For day trips, consider renting a car from Hobart Airport or city depots."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

35 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available at accommodation and local pub

Local SIM

Prepaid SIMs available at Hobart Airport or city stores from $10

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very low crime. Scams are rare. Bushfire risk in summer.

Night safety

8/10

Very low crime. Scams are rare. Bushfire risk in summer.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

2/10

"Old Beach is a very safe, low-crime area. Exercise usual precautions: lock vehicles and accommodation, avoid leaving valuables visible. The main road (East Derwent Highway) can be busy during peak hours; take care when walking or cycling. Bushfire risk exists in summer—monitor the TasALERT app. The river is generally calm, but strong currents can occur near the jetty; supervise children near water."

Police

000

Ambulance

000

Fire

000

Non-urgent Police

131 444

Entry and health

Health information

"Tasmania has excellent healthcare. For emergencies, dial 000. The Royal Hobart Hospital (48 Liverpool St, Hobart) is the major public hospital, about 20 minutes away. Pharmacies are available in nearby Glenorchy. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is strongly recommended. Tap water is safe to drink. Tasmania has no venomous snakes or spiders in urban areas, but be aware of ticks in bushland. Sun protection is essential even on cloudy days."

Culture

Local customs

"Tasmanians are friendly and informal. Greet with a smile and 'G'day'. Dress is casual—layers are key due to changeable weather. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for exceptional service. Respect private property and farmland. When hiking, follow Leave No Trace principles. Smoking is banned in many public places. Punctuality is appreciated for tours and bookings."

English (official)MandarinArabicCantoneseVietnameseItalianGreekHindiSpanishTagalogEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$20-35 | pub meal or casual dinner

Hotels

$120-200 | mid-range accommodation per night

Local transport

$3-5 | bus fare to Hobart

Cost notes

Self-catering can reduce costs. Fuel is slightly cheaper than mainland Australia.

Timezone

Australia/Hobart
Local time 15:01

More facts

Population

3,667

Type

Suburb

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Old Beach, Oldbridzh, Олдбридж

SuburbBeachHistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingFishingScenic Drives

Old Beach

Best time to visit Old Beach

October

Know before you go

Getting there

Getting around

Stay connected

Stay safe

Overall

Night safety

Transport

Scam risk

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Non-urgent Police

Entry and health

Health information

Culture

Local customs

Costs and practicals

More facts

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Berriedale

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Bridgewater

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