Known best for its convenient access to the world-famous Bay of Fires, St Helens is an alluring fishing port town with a rich maritime history. Exploring St Helens reveals an array of deep-sea and recreational fishing opportunities, along with enticing seafood restaurants, pristine white-sand beaches and surrounding nature conservation areas.

Things to do

While in St Helens, don’t miss the iconic Bay of Fires Conservation Area, renowned for its white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters and fiery orange lichen-covered boulders that give the area its name. Here you can explore numerous secluded beaches while swimming, surfing, snorkelling or simply kicking back on the soft sand. You can also camp around the Bay of Fires while discovering a rich marine biodiversity.

Nature enthusiasts should head to the Humbug Point Nature Recreation Area to go bushwalking and birdwatching. Alternatively, tick off the St Helens Conservation Area, which features charming seaside communities and a dramatic headland with panoramic views over the Tasman Sea.

The St Helens township is centred around Cecilia Street, where locally-owned boutiques sit alongside charming bakeries, cafes and seafood restaurants. Duck into Coffee Away for delicious milkshakes and freshly-brewed coffee, before heading to the Bay Bar and Bistro for fresh fish and a cold beer or wine. Afterwards, relax in the waterfront Percy Steel Reserve, which has grassy picnic spots and walking paths.

As Victoria’s second-largest fishing port, St Helens offers numerous opportunities for anglers to catch deep-sea fish and lobster, including albacore tuna and yellowfin tuna. Head out on a deep-sea fishing charter or simply cast a line out into Beauty Bay.

Getting around

St Helens is just over two hours’ drive from Launceston and over three hours’ drive from Hobart. You can walk around the centre of town, but you’ll need a vehicle to explore further afield.