Maria Island National Park

Access to Maria Island is by Maria Island Ferry and Eco Cruises from Triabunna. Running times vary throughout the year according to visitor numbers.

Facilities in the park begin with the stone Commissariat Store, which is just 150 m from the jetty. This is the island’s oldest building and houses reception, information, and displays. You pay park entry fees and camping fees here.  The ranger’s office and public telephones are located here as well.  Behind the Darlington Bay sand dunes, there is a large open shelter with gas barbecues and picnic tables, as well as water and public toilets close by.  There are no shops or motor vehicles on the island at all. The old Penitentiary at Darlington offers very basic lodging, with bunk beds in dorm style, picnic tables and chairs and a wood heater.  There are public toilets nearby and hot showers. Campsites are available at Bernacchi’s Creek and also at French’s Farm, and Encampment Cove.

The island is popular for bird watching, as all except one of the twelve endemic species are found here. Bring a field guide and binoculars if you are interested in birding and you’ll be well rewarded. Mountain biking is very popular on Maria Island, and it’s an ideal way to see the entire length of the island. Bikes are allowed on roads only, and helmets are required.  Day walks around Darlington will allow you to see the ruins and buildings around Darlington that are the remains of two convict periods and two industrial periods on the island.