Coles Bay , on the Freycinet Peninsula, was first settled by Aboriginal people and was thought to be a winter residence due to the mild climate experienced throughout the year in the area. Aboriginal middens remain as evidence of this settlement.

The first Europeans arrived in the early years of the last century and practiced whaling in the off shore waters. Chinese prospectors soon arrived in their quest to extract the tin deposits that were prevalent in the creek beds, but the tension between them and the European miners resulted in the destruction of their Joss House and the alleged cursing of the area.

Coles Bay received its name from Silas Cole, a lime burner who used the oyster shells from the Aboriginal middens to create lime which he then shipped to Swansea where it was used in the construction of some of the town's early buildings.

The present day site of Coles Bay was originally owned by Harry Parsons, a retired auctioneer who had bought the land and established simple accommodation for bushwalkers and fishermen at "The Fisheries". He later erected some shacks for weekend accommodation.

In 1935, the dynamic ex-bank clerk Ronald Richardson arrived in Coles Bay and established a health and fitness resort which he named The Chateau. Supplies to the town were regularly shipped in by the SS Koomeela, including the fuel required to run the town electricity supply. The development of Coles Bay increased in pace, with the opening of the Granite Quarry, the extractions of which were used in buildings throughout Australia.

Coles Bay is primarily a fishing town, but at the height of summer the town is usually inundated with tourists wishing to take advantage of the natural attractions so prevalent in the town and its surrounds, including the beautiful Freycinet National Park.


Natural Attractions

Wineglass Bay boasts some fantastic white beaches and spectacular views of the coastline. The walk to the Bay from the town encompasses a plethora of native plant and animal life. There are opportunities to view aquatic waterbirds such as black swans at the Moulting Lagoon. Bushwalks through spectacular Freycinet National Park are recommended for visitors wishing to experience native wildlife and amazing panoramas.

The Friendly Beaches are perfect for swimmers and fishermen. Great Oyster Bay is a super spot for fishing with all sorts of fish including flathead, trevally, crayfish and trumpeter. For the more adventurous, there is also big game fishing, with the giant bluefin tuna run taking place every year in autumn.

Other Attractions

Visit the Cape Tourville Lighthouse, built in the beginning of the 1970s to aid the immense wood chip freighters that would dock at nearby Triabunna, and enjoy the fantastic view from this well known vantage point.

Charter a sailing vessel for a day of deep sea game fishing, a scenic voyage or a scuba diving expedition from Freycinet Sea Charters, or relax over a leisurely meal and enjoy the beautiful view. Tours of local Oyster farms are available in the area.

0 of a possible 0 points from 0 votes