Doo Town: Tasmania’s Quirkiest Seaside Escape

Perched at the southern end of the sweeping, sapphire‑blue Pirates Bay, Doo Town is one of Tasmania’s most delightfully unexpected destinations. What begins as a scenic coastal drive near the Port Arthur Historic Site quickly turns into a playful, story‑filled village where every cottage has a name—and every name has a cheeky twist. This is a place where the sea air feels lighter, the humour is baked into the landscape, and visitors can’t help but slow down, smile, and explore.

A Village Built on Whimsy

The tradition began in 1935 when Hobart architect Eric Round christened his Pirates Bay shack with the name Doo I. His neighbours, clearly amused, followed suit: Charles Gibson added Doo‑Me, Bill Eldridge chose Doo‑Us, and soon the entire settlement embraced the theme. Today, the shacks—classic Tasmanian coastal cottages from the 1930s—proudly display names like Thistledoo, Gunnadoo, Doo‑Little, and dozens more.

This quirky naming custom has become a beloved part of the town’s identity, and even new residents continue the tradition with creativity and good humour. For travellers, it’s a photographer’s dream: a seaside village where every corner reveals another playful sign and another reason to laugh.

A Coastal Setting That Steals the Show

Beyond the charm and character, Doo Town is genuinely beautiful. The village overlooks the dramatic curve of Pirates Bay, where long stretches of golden sand meet rugged cliffs and the Southern Ocean rolls in with rhythmic power. The air smells of salt and eucalyptus, and the light shifts constantly across the water, making sunrise and late afternoon particularly magical.

Just minutes from the village, you’ll find some of Tasmania’s most striking natural formations—towering sea cliffs, blowholes, tessellated rock platforms, and coastal lookouts that feel untouched and wild.

Things to Do

Hunt for the Funniest Shack Names

Wander or drive slowly through the village and discover the full collection of “Doo” names. Every visitor has a favourite.

Explore the Tessellated Pavement

A short drive away, this natural rock formation looks almost man‑made, with geometric patterns carved by centuries of erosion.

Visit the Blowhole and Devil’s Kitchen

Watch the ocean thunder through narrow rock passages and crash into dramatic cliff formations.

Enjoy Coastal Bushwalks

The surrounding Tasman National Park offers walking tracks ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging cliff‑top hikes with sweeping ocean views.

Combine with a Visit to Port Arthur

Doo Town sits just a short drive from the Port Arthur Historic Site, making it an ideal addition to a full day of exploring the Tasman Peninsula.

How to Get There

Doo Town is located on the Tasman Peninsula in southeast Tasmania.

• From Hobart: Approximately a 1 hour 15 minute drive via the Arthur Highway.
• From Port Arthur: Just 10 minutes north, making it an easy stop before or after your historic site visit.
• By Tour: Many Tasman Peninsula day tours include nearby natural attractions; check if your operator offers a stop in Doo Town.

The drive itself is part of the experience, with rolling farmland, forested hills, and glimpses of the coastline along the way.

Best Time to Visit

Doo Town is a year‑round destination, but each season offers something special.

• Summer (Dec–Feb): Warm beach days, ideal for photography and coastal walks.
• Autumn (Mar–May): Crisp air, fewer crowds, and stunning sunsets over Pirates Bay.
• Winter (Jun–Aug): Dramatic seas and moody skies—perfect for storm watching.
• Spring (Sep–Nov): Wildflowers bloom along the walking tracks and wildlife is active.

Why You’ll Love It

Doo Town is more than a quirky roadside stop—it’s a slice of Tasmanian character wrapped in coastal beauty. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, laugh a little, breathe deeply, and appreciate the simple joy of discovery. Whether you’re exploring the peninsula’s natural wonders or seeking a memorable detour, Doo Town will Doo‑nicely.