Here’s how to plan the Cape Raoul Walk to the lookout independently with an optional side trip to Shipstern Bluff.
Cape Raoul is the third cape on Tasmania’s famous Three Capes Track. However, this particular cape isn’t accessible on the island’s famed multi-day walk and you will need to drive to the bottom of the Tasman Peninsula to hike to the Cape Raoul Lookout.
This 16.4 km return hike is perfect for those looking for an epic hike from Port Arthur or those looking to tick off one of the cape tracks.
Below, I share everything you need to know about hiking to the Cape on the Tasman Peninsula. With an optional side trip on the Shipstern Bluff, which overlooks one of the world’s most massive wave breaks.
Where is Cape Raoul?
Cape Raoul is the southernmost cape on Tasmania's untamed Tasman Peninsula. The cape is accessible via a hike from the newly-established Cape Raoul Trailhead Carpark, approximately 112 km from Hobart, or just 18 km (20 minutes) from Port Arthur.
Below I have pinned the exact location of the carpark which is updated and accurate. However, getting here by relying solely on Google's navigation may or may not be the best idea. I've provided detailed instructions on how to reach the trailhead below.
Google Maps Coordinates: "Stormlea Road Carpark"
Unfortunately, if you don't have your own transport, you're out of luck. There aren't any tours or public transport options for this one. If you're set on seeing the Tasman Peninsula, you can book a walking tour to Cape Hauy instead.
A valid parks pass is required for entry to Tasmania's national parks.
How to Get to the Cape Raoul Trailhead
Google Maps had a mind of its own along this route. Not sure if it was our fault or the reception however below I have mentioned the direct steps to get here to make it easier.
Directions:
- Head towards Port Arthur on Arthur Highway.
- Continue past the Historic Site turnoff.
- Follow the highway as it becomes Nubeena Road.
- Turn left onto Stormlea Road.
- Follow Stormlea Road to the end (don't take any forks).
- The road is sealed except for the 1 km (we managed with our long-wheelbase van)
- The trailhead car park for the Cape Raoul walk is at the end of the road.
Once you reach the large car park public toilets and information boards explaining the track and what to expect.
FAQ
Should I Hike Cape Raoul or Cape Hauy?
If you're tossing up which of the Tasmanian Three Capes you'd like to check out on a day hike, let me help you out.
The Cape Raoul hike is a much longer walk but offers a very similar view. In my opinion, Cape Hauy is equally as impressive if not more so. The option of which track to take ultimately comes down to how long you'd like to hike.
If that didn't help your dilemma, then let me complicate it further by saying that Cape Pillar is by far the most impressive! However, this is a much longer walk and typically takes at least two days.
However, it is possible to walk to Cape Pillar on a rather long day walk, or spend the night at the free in-between camp spot (more information on my full guide to the Three Capes).
Is the Cape Raoul walk difficult?
The walk is moderately difficult due to its length and elevation gain of 645 meters. It involves a gentle climb, a descent, and a flat section towards the cape.
Is the Shipstern Bluff side trip worth it?
Yes, the Shipstern Bluff side trip offers spectacular views of one of the world's most massive wave breaks. It adds an additional 1.6 km to your hike.
What should I bring for the Cape Raoul hike?
Walking shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, raincoat + warm fleece and most importantly valid Parks Pass for Tasmania's national parks
The Cape Raoul Hike
- Hiking Distance: 16.4 km return (18 km including a short side-trip to the Shipstern Bluff Walk)
- Duration: 3.5 - 5 hours return
- Elevation: 645 m total elevation gain (undulates)
- Difficulty: Moderate (Grade 4)
The Cape Raoul hike is a fairly long walk that begins by gently climbing up through a eucalypt forest and then descending down to the long plateau reaching out to Cape Raoul. It's not a difficult hike in terms of physical ability or navigation, but always remember that conditions can change quickly in Tasmania.
We completed the Cape Raoul walk to the edge of the Cape in roughly 3.5 hours moving at a fairly brisk pace.
This included a short 1.6 km return detour to the lookout over Shipstern Bluff, one of the world's biggest surf breaks. However, you can expect to take up to 5-6 hours to complete this walk as listed on the Tasmania Parks website.
There are also ways to shorten the hike by turning around at the Cape Raoul lookout, which is a good spot to view the cape atop the high point on the coastal bluff. This would make it a quick and easy 4.4 km return walk.
However, let me convince you that the views from Cape Raoul are much better and definitely worth the effort! Below is a detailed account of my experience on the Cape Raoul hike in Tasmania.
First Section: Gentle Climb Through Open Forest
The walk begins by gently climbing through dry, open eucalypt forest. The track is well-maintained here and throughout, reflecting the popularity of the walk.
After approximately 1.7 km, the track forks with signs showing left for Cape Raoul and right for Shipstern Bluff.
We decided to take the short 1.6 km (return) detour to check out the Shipstern Bluff lookout. This track is much more of the same, but descends a little down to the lookout point on the Shipstern Bluff walk.
Optional Side Trip on Shipstern Bluff
Shipstern Bluff is the proving ground of the world's largest big-wave surf competitions. Known as Cape Fear, this comp brings together some of the world's best big-wave surfers to Tasmania's southern shores every year. Unfortunately, there is no set date for the comp as it largely depends on the swell. As a result, the competition at Shipstern Bluff is usually called very spontaneously.
If you're lucky enough to be sharing the Shipstern Bluff walk with some of the world's best surfers, then screw Cape Raoul! Unfortunately for us, we made it to the Shipstern Bluff lookout on a day with very little swell.
Still, it was a good little side trip and the coastal views are certainly worth the extra steps.
After admiring the view, we turned back and began the ascent back on the Cape Raoul hike.
Cape Raoul Lookout
After approximately 2.2 km (3.6 km for us), you'll reach the Cape Raoul lookout. This is a popular spot for many people who aren't keen on a big hike and would rather just call it early.
The views are quite impressive, with sheer cliff drops and deep blue water of the Tasman Sea below. However, the Cape Raoul lookout doesn't really compare with the actual cape view, so we pushed on.
The Descent to The Cape
After making it to the top of the bluff, the terrain changed to a more temperate rainforest feel. While not offering much in terms of views, this was one of the most scenic parts of the trail, with large trees and dense ferns dominating the sides of the track.
It was much cooler walking through this part of the track.
Then, as we gained the high ground, the track began to decline on a windy path to the flat plateau stretching out to Cape Raoul. This section is quite easy on the decline and not too steep. But, be prepared that you'll need to face this section on the way back up too.
Along the descent, there are plenty of epic coastal views in pockets of forest opening. These offered a great excuse to take a short rest and snap some photos.
Arriving at Cape Raoul Lookout
After making it down to level ground, we still had a 2.8 km flat walk to reach the cape. There aren't many spots to admire the view along this section, so we pushed on.
Just before the Cape Raoul Viewpoint over Raoul Rock, there is a large tarn. Beside this, there are some epic coastal cliff formations worthy of some photos. Also, you'll find wooden boardwalks on this section that has been built to protect the track.
The entire flat section leading out to the cape is mostly just low lying bush and coastal heathland, a stark contrast to the wet forests less than an hour earlier.
How to pronounce Raoul: Rah-ool
The Cape Raoul Viewpoint looks directly out to the Tasman Sea. It's a set of several large pillared rock formations that seem to be stretching out as far as they can. From here you can see Cape Pillar and the famous Blade, which we climbed two days prior on the Three Capes Track.
Seal Rock Lookout
Just around the bend from the main cape viewpoint you will find Seal Rock Lookout. This offers excellent views of the actual cape and you can often spot some seals basking and hunting on the rocks below.
Once we'd etched the view in our mind and taken a few photos, we turned back on the same track back towards the car park.
Accommodation Near Cape Raoul Tasmania
Looking for a place to stay on the Tasman Peninsula close to Port Arthur and all of the hiking trails? Don't worry, I've got you covered.
1. Stewarts Bay Lodge Luxury
Set on over 22 acres offering a private beach area with an onsite restaurant, and fully equipped chalets with ocean views. Port Arthur's Historic Site is within walking distance from the property.
2. Port Arthur Villas Mid-Range
A comfortable villa-style accommodation just 750 meters from the historic site of Port Arthur. With rooms catering to large group sizes, equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay.
3. NRMA Port Arthur Holiday Park Budget
The best holiday park for travelers on a budget or looking for a caravan park to hook up their rig. It offers a large playground for the kids and a stone pizza oven which guests are free to use. Pademelons call this place home once the sun starts to set!
Did you find this hiking guide to the Cape Raoul track in Tasmania useful? If so, I've written dozens of adventure guides to Tassie that I'm sure you'll also love.
- 65 Epic Things to Do in Tasmania - My ultimate guide to exploring Tassie, complete with must-visit icons & hidden gems.
- Hikes in Tasmania - Discover 40+ of Tassie's best hiking trails, including short walks and long overnight treks!
- Waterfalls in Tasmania - A guide to 25+ of Tasmania's best waterfalls!
- Where to Stay in Tasmania - The ultimate accommodation guide to help your stops and places to stay.
- Best Tours & Experiences in Tasmania - This years' roundup of my favourite bookable tours & experiences across Tassie!
Julia Patten
Saturday 13th of November 2021
What a great guide! Thank you - I"m planning a trip for my family and this is extremely helpful.
Olly Gaspar
Sunday 14th of November 2021
You're welcome Julia, enjoy the hike!