Remarkable Cave

The Remarkable Cave Kimberly Damon Bates (Atlas Obscura User)

Looking down the 115-step wooden staircase disappearing into the green underbrush, it’s tempting to skip this little-known natural wonder. But take the time to see what’s so special about the Remarkable Cave, located at the southeastern edge of the Tasman Peninsula. The name originates from a legend that one can “see” Tasmania itself in the cave.

From the viewing platform, it’s a bit unremarkable at first. The opening is about 20 feet away, and the basalt rock pillar wall surrounding it extends up out of view. Visitors are able to see through the cave to the ocean, though the glare of sunlight can make that challenging.

The cave gets its name from the striking resemblance that the seaside opening has to the map outline shape of the Australian state of Tasmania. With the exception of a bump at the top center of the cave opening, it’s nearly a perfect image. The viewing platform has visitor panels with a map of the state, along with some information about the geology of the cave.

There’s a beach area outside the cave accessible from a separate stairway that descends from the same parking lot. Walking through the cave to the sea is prohibited and the land entrance is not accessible from the viewing area.

Know Before You Go

Requires a valid Park pass to enter the area. The hike does have some steep areas, so a hiking experience is recommended and it's not disabled-friendly. Not generally accessible at night. Also accessible from this area is a hiking trail to the Maingon Bay Blowhole, 1.5 hour roundtrip. Try looking through a camera’s viewfinder or a pair of binoculars.