Everything you need to know about visiting the highly acclaimed “Edge of the World” on Tasmania’s Wild North West Coast. Includes how to get here, what to expect and photos from the edge.
After spending 4 months travelling around the incredible island of Tasmania, I finally got around to seeing the famous “Edge of the World” lookout at Gardiner’s Point. I’d been told about this epic spot almost immediately after arriving, and I was stoked to finally get to check it out.
In this quick travel guide, I’ll outline everything you need to know about visiting the Edge of the World in Tasmania. I’ll also include a brief section on my experience and some photos from my trip that I hope will inspire you to visit.
About the Edge of the World In Tasmania
The Edge of the World is a fitting name for the rugged region of Tasmania's desolate northwest. Nothing but a small plaque separates you from the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean.
Looking directly west, the line of sight would continue far beyond the horizon. While this point isn't the westernmost of Tasmania, it's a point where if our sight had no physical limit, we’d eventually spot landfall on the eastern coast of Argentina, all the way around the globe! In fact, this expanse of sea is the furthest-reaching stretch of ocean on the globe.
This lookout point is located at Gardiners Point, close to the West Point State Reserve, adjacent to the mouth of the Arthur River. Most people tend to visit the Edge of the World on a self-drive trip along the Tarkine Drive.
Edge Of the World Organised Trips
Unfortunately, due to how remote the Edge of the World lookout is, there isn't a dedicated tour running here from any major city in Tasmania. However, if you're in Hobart with 5 days to spare and looking for a way to explore the Edge of the World as well as many other unmissable Tasmanian highlights, then I'd recommend this epic 5-day all-inclusive tour of Tasmania.
Otherwise, below I've included some of the best-rated tours and experiences from the Wild West Coast that you should definitely consider.
How To Get to the Edge of the World
As I mentioned, you'll need your own vehicle to get to the Edge of the World lookout in Tasmania. Remember, you'll want to head to Gardiners Point, located at the end of Airey Street, accessible via Temma Road. Expect a roughly 1.5-hour drive from Stanley or 3.5 hours from Launceston.
The roads are all sealed until you get onto Airey Street towards the beach. However, this road is very well maintained and any vehicle type should manage in good weather.
Below I've pinned the exact location of the lookout to help you get here independently.
- Google Maps Pin: "Edge of the World" - Arthur River TAS
Car Rentals in Tasmania
Unfortunately, the cost of bringing your own car on the Spirit of Tasmania has skyrocketed in recent years.
Now, it is usually cheaper to rent a car on arrival. I recommend using RentalCars.com in Tasmania to compare rates for different vehicles across dealerships.
(Rentals are limited in Tasmania so it's a good idea to book in advance).
Related: 7 Awesome Things to do at Strahan & the West Coast
My Experience at the Edge of the World
Whatever you've heard about Tasmania's weather, let me tell you that it's definitely true. I believe that the old sayings are even more accurate on the West Coast. It's wet, wild, cold and extremely unpredictable.
We arrived at the Edge of the World after a long day exploring Tasmania's incredible Tarkine. The fierce roaring forties were relentless and were causing our big van to sway nervously as we drove up the west coast. We arrived at the lookout to snap some photographs but unfortunately, the weather was just too bad to even risk getting my camera out.
Due to the poor weather, we decided to "stealth camp" rather obnoxiously, adjacent to a big "no camping" sign. We normally always respect the no-camping rules but the weather was coming in and we felt it was just too dangerous to keep driving. Besides, we figured that nobody would be stupid enough to make the trip out here in that weather anyway!
Luckily, our assumptions turned out to be true. We endured a long night of howling winds and woke up to a narrow sunrise weather gap that allowed us to get some photos and properly explore the Edge of the World.
The Ultimate Tasmania Travel Resource
Looking for more Tasmania travel guides & adventure inspiration? Below are my most comprehensive blog posts that will serve as a great free resource for your trip.
Where to Stay in NorthWest Tasmania: A Quick Guide
Tassie's northwest has a lot to offer. If you're planning your trip, consider picking an accommodation option up here as a base, at least for a few days. Below are my recommendation options in the best areas to help you out.
Stay near the Edge of the World - A rugged northwest coast is a great place for adventurers to base themselves.
- Arthur Spa Cottage 9/10
- Ocean View Cottage 9.2/10
Stay in Stanley - Famous for the iconic nut but offers great seaside accommodations.
- Hanlon House 9.3/10
- Stanley Village Waterfront 8.8/10
Stay in Boat Harbour - One of the most beautiful and underrated beach towns in Tasmania. A must-visit!
- Heavenly Farm B&B 9.1/10
- Boat Harbour Garden Cottages 9.1/10
Stay in Penguin - A quaint coastal town with a unique name.
- Penguin Seaside Homestay 9.5/10
- Penguin Beachfront Apartments 9.3/10
More Tasmania Travel Guides and Adventure Inspiration
I hope that you've enjoyed this quick guide to visiting the Edge of the World at Gardiners Point in Tasmania. Before you go, make sure to check out some of my other travel guides below for more inspiration for your adventures around the island.