Picnic Island will soon be reopening as an all-inclusive luxury private island experience off Tasmania’s stunning east coast. We expect to welcome our first guests in January 2026 following a comprehensive transformation.
Coming to Picnic Island Tasmania soon? Here is our guide on how to pack.
Your private island awaits. We look forward to welcoming to Picnic Island very soon. In the meantime, below is a suggested packing list to ensure your visit is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible.
Please note: This is not an exhaustive list. Please discuss any questions or concerns with your island host.
Footwear
The right shoes can make your entire visit more enjoyable. Think function over fashion, but we won’t stop you if you want to toss in a pair of dress shoes to impress the penguins, or to go out for dinner!
- Comfortable footwear that’s easy to slip on and off around the island.
- Non-slip sandals for beach landings, and exploring the island’s intertidal zone.
- Hiking boots or trail shoes if you plan on exploring the national park during your stay.
Clothing
Layering is key to staying comfortable in the ever-changing Tasmanian climate. Think t-shirts or base layers, wool or fleece jumper, and a windproof outer layer.
- Waterproof jacket: passing showers are included as part of your experience.
- Casual clothing that you are comfortable to move around in both on, and off-island.
- A beanie and/or scarf to stay cosy while meeting the resident Little Penguins of an evening.
- On autumn and winter evenings, you may also appreciate having a pair of gloves.
- Smart-casual items if you feel like dressing up for dinner. (Tasmania is notoriously casual, and the penguins are not known to judge our guests’ clothing options, but if you want to go formal, go ahead!)
- Swimwear and a sarong or cover-up. (A dip in the crystal-blue waters of the Freycinet coast is unforgettable.)
- Note: We also provide wetsuits for those who are not on the cold plunge bandwagon.
- Hat and sunglasses.
Personal Items
- Please bring a supply of any personal medications you require, with a couple of days extra in the event of any travel delays.
- Toiletries are provided in all bathrooms. (If you have any personal products you prefer, please ensure that they are biodegradable and free of microplastics, chemical dyes, and fragrances, as all grey water filters through our system and eventually returns to our pristine oceans.)
- Ocean-safe sunscreen and insect repellent. (Both will also be available for you on the island.)
Other Items
Optional, but lovely to have.
- Camera.
- A favourite book. (We also have a curated library of fiction and non-fiction Tasmanian titles waiting for you on the island.)
- A journal for quiet mornings or evenings.
- A yoga mat. (We also have mats available for you on the island.)
About Picnic Island Tasmania
Picnic Island is a private island retreat located 800 meters offshore from Coles Bay, Tasmania. The island accommodates up to six guests in three luxuriously appointed bedrooms, with an additional host suite soon to be added, increasing total capacity to eight guests. As a protected seabird sanctuary, the island offers unprecedented access to wildlife, including a resident penguin colony and occasional visits from whales, dolphins and seals, all while providing sophisticated luxury and exceptional service.
Reach out to [email protected] to enquire about your travel dates and create your dream visit with our concierge team.
