Where rolling farmland meets the wild Bass Strait, Devonport is Tasmania’s gateway to authentic experiences. On the country of the punnilerpanner people, this coastal city rewards those who choose to slow down and stay a while and in 2024, it was recognised nationally as Australia’s Top Tourism Town.
Arriving couldn’t be easier. The Spirit of Tasmania berths right in the centre of the city, and within just five kilometres you’ll find your first essential stop — the Devonport Visitor Information Centre. Located in the heart of the CBD within the paranaple arts centre, it is the perfect place to begin your journey.
Staffed by locals with genuine knowledge and lived experience, the centre goes well beyond brochures. Visitors can purchase a Tasmanian National Parks Pass, book attraction passes, check Tas Alerts, access full statewide information, and get tailored advice on where to travel next. As one traveller recently remarked,“what you just told me, I wouldn’t read in any guide book.”
The centre itself is part of the vibrant paranaple arts centre, which also houses the Devonport Regional Gallery and the Town Hall Theatre — making it easy to combine trip planning with cultural discovery. The gallery features three exhibition spaces and a hands-on creative area that’s perfect for families, while the theatre presents everything from local productions to nationally touring performances, with the visitor centre operating as the box office.
Before you leave, browse the Visitor Centre’s gift shop, where you’ll find a curated collection of treasures by local makers alongside quality Tasmanian souvenirs — a chance to take a little piece of the region with you.
Devonport is exceptionally well set up for caravanners, with four locally operated caravan parks and two low-cost self-contained camping areas, making it easy to find a comfortable place to stay.
More than a stopover, it’s an ideal base. Set up your van and explore the wider region — take a coastal drive to Stanley or head inland to Cradle Mountain. Many seasoned travellers know that towing into alpine areas can be challenging and expensive, making staying in Devonport the perfect, stress-free alternative.
Back in town, Devonport’s natural beauty is everywhere — from quiet beaches and coastal walking tracks to native wildlife experiences. Discover the rich cultural heritage at Tiagarra, one of Australia’s oldest Aboriginal cultural centres, or explore stories of the sea at the Bass Strait Maritime Museum.
Devonport is more than Tasmania’s gateway — it’s a destination in its own right. For caravanners, it offers space, authenticity and a great place to gather local insights that turns a good trip to Tasmanian into a truly memorable one.
Image credit: S Group