Beauty Point is a small riverside town that’s a hotspot for mariners and fascinating underwater creatures. Sitting on the northern reaches of the Tamar River in the middle of sheep, cattle and wine-growing country, Beauty Point was originally established as the first deep-water port in the area. The port is still the heart of the town and hosts Australia’s National Institute for Maritime Studies.

Seahorses are a star attraction in Beauty Point with the world’s first seahorse aquarium, Seahorse World, dedicated to breeding and protecting these fascinating creatures. The unique Australian platypus and echidna can also be seen next door at Platypus House. For creatures in the wild, try nearby Narawntapu National Park, one of the best places to view free-ranging wildlife in the state. Listen for the growls and screeches of Tasmanian devils.

For a more human interaction, there are many award-winning wineries and cellar doors to explore in the area around Beauty Point and plenty of hidden gems in the quaint towns dotted throughout the picturesque countryside. Many are small, family-owned vineyards where the growers will greet you and happily tell how they make their wine.

Beauty Point is a 40-minute drive (40 km) from Launceston.