Bay of Fires Will Make You See Tasmania in a Whole New Light

Bay of Fires, Tasmania, Australia.
Bay of Fires, Tasmania, Australia. Photo by Nico Smit on Unsplash

Tasmania is home to countless natural wonders and it constantly leaves us in awe with its infinite beauty. The Bay of Fires is one of many tiny gems that will make you fully appreciate its beauty, and it simply wouldn’t be the same without its orange-colored granite rocks.

Contrary to popular belief, this ocean bay didn’t get its name because its orange lichen-cloaked boulders are reminiscent of a burning flame. Captain Tobias Furneaux, who stumbled upon it in 1773, gave it its famous nickname when he noticed the fires the Aboriginal people lit the beaches from a great distance.

Located about 280 km away from Hobart, the Bay of Fires may not be one of Tasmania’s most easily accessible attractions, but that’s not stopping tourists from visiting it. If you’re road tripping around this island, you’ll get to see some of the most dramatic views it has in store if you decide to reach this picture-perfect bay from Hobart.

The orange locks, which owe their striking color to lichen, are the Bay of Fires’ most popular feature, but not the only one that makes it worth a visit. Its white-sand beaches and crystal clear water are just as impressive, making this ocean bay a popular spot for water sports and recreational activities.