Things to do  on Maria Island
What to do? where to visit? These depend on various things:
how much time you have to visit, your fitness levels, equipment, your particular
interests, the weather and so on. Here are some ideas:
» Stroll the Darlington historic settlement. Read about
and see the ruins and restored heritage of convicts and later settlers, and see
the animals and birds among the open woodlands and clearings. If you like, also
walk up the hill to the convict built reservoir and the old limestone
quarries.
» Take a walk to a beach and go for a swim - be sensible,
and beware of possible currents, occasional bluebottles and other hazards.
» Walk to Fossil Cliffs north of Darlington (1-2 hours),
recommended to take a circuit including the old quarries.
» Walk to the Painted Cliffs south of Darlington (2
hours), preferably at low tide, with afternoon sun to highlight the colours.
» Take the track to climb steeply up to Bishop & Clerk
(4-5 hours), or Mt Maria (5-6 hours) for lofty views.
» For 2-3 days or more: walk or cycle from Darlington to
stay at campsite at either French's Farm or Encampment Cove. From here you can
do side trips to Mt Maria (5-6 hours), Haunted Bay (3-4 hours), or visit the
Point Lesueur historic ruins in a loop walk to include Bloodstone Point (1-3
hours). Swim at either Chinamans Bay or the ocean beach at Riedle Bay. Explore
the granite rocks at the end of Riedle Bay beach at low tide. Return to
Darlington by the alternative track.
Notes: Times listed are estimates for average
walkers; allow extra time for rest and sightseeing stops.
Remember to carry ample water, food, adequate clothing & equipment, and keep an eye
on weather.
» Historic Guided Tours are available by
arrangement with Park staff.
» Extra activities, including slide shows,
guided walks and children's activities are conducted by the Summer Ranger
Program, running for approximately 8 weeks commencing mid December, and also
over Easter.
» Visit the
Marine Reserve (rockpool scrambling, snorkelling, diving). Dive tanks can be
refilled in Orford. Water temperatures vary 11-20°C
with the seasons, and you will see spectacular seaweeds, sponges, anemones,
crabs, various invertebrates and fish. The reserve is located along the
northern shores of the island, as outlined on the map.
Note, fishing is prohibited in the reserve (except recreational fishing, and
only then in the area east of Cape Boullanger, the point facing Ile du Nord, near the
Fossil Cliffs).
» For adventurous activities, such as climbing, kayaking,
diving, boat cruising and so on, we advise that if you do not possess the skills,
equipment and local knowledge required, then you would best by catered by
licenced commercial tour
guidance.
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