When most people think of nature's light show, Aurora, the northern lights in the Northern Hemisphere often steal the spotlight. But did you know that Tasmania offers an equally stunning counterpart in the Southern Hemisphere? Known as the southern lights, or Aurora Australis, this natural wonder transforms the night sky into a dazzling spectacle of colours right here in Australia! 

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to spot the southern lights in Tasmania. From understanding what they are and why Tasmania is the perfect spot to witness them to the best times, locations, and tips for capturing the lights, we’ve got you covered. 

 

What are the southern lights?

The southern lights, officially known as the Aurora Australis, is a spectacular light display that occurs when the sun's energy interacts with Earth’s atmosphere. The sun constantly sends out a stream of charged particles called solar wind. Earth’s magnetic field usually protects us from most of this solar wind by pushing particles away. But when there’s a big solar storm, like a solar flare, extra amounts of these particles are sent toward Earth. 

When these particles reach Earth, they follow magnetic lines toward the North and South Poles. Upon entering the atmosphere, they collide with oxygen and nitrogen molecules, which give them energy. When these molecules release that energy, they create the glowing lights we see in an aurora. 

 

Why you should see the southern lights in Tasmania

While spotting the lights on mainland locations like New South Wales and Victoria is possible, this is only during intense storms. Unlike the mainland, Tasmania’s clear, unpolluted skies and vast open spaces make it easier to view the aurora. 

Plus, the island’s natural geography—with coastal cliffs, pristine beaches, and alpine peaks—is the perfect setting for aurora viewing. Imagine spotting the southern lights with the dramatic Cradle Mountain silhouetted against the glow or seeing those dancing lights reflect on the waters around Bruny Island. 

Second, Tasmania’s accessibility and infrastructure make planning an Australia itinerary simpler and more flexible. Unlike more remote aurora-viewing locations worldwide, Tasmania offers a mix of isolated viewing spots alongside comfortable campsites and scenic driving routes. 

 

How to best see the southern lights in Tasmania

When it comes to maximising your chances of seeing the southern lights, flexibility and mobility are key. And nothing offers more freedom on the road than exploring Tasmania in a campervan hire. Imagine driving through the island’s most picturesque landscapes at your own pace, pulling up at remote spots away from city lights, and settling in for a cozy night of aurora-watching right from your camper. 

Travelling by campervan allows you to be where you need to be when conditions are right. With solar activity forecasts often unpredictable, you need to be ready to move at a moment’s notice as the aurora forecast changes. 

Plus, many of Tasmania’s best aurora-viewing locations—like the South Arm Peninsula and Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park—are ideal for overnight stays with plenty of campervan-friendly campsites nearby. Be sure to check out our list of the best family-friendly campsites in Tasmania, which offer convenient bases as you hunt for the southern lights. 

Image: Tourism Tasmania

 

Best places to see southern lights in Tasmania in a camper

Below, we dive into four top locations where you have the best chance of witnessing the southern lights. Whether you’re planning an aurora-chasing campervan hire or just looking for additional activities to add to your Tasmania travel itinerary, these spots should be on your list. 

 

1. South Arm Peninsula

The South Arm Peninsula is one of the most popular and accessible locations near Hobart for spotting the Aurora Australis. This area offers sweeping coastal views and an uninterrupted horizon facing south, making it an ideal vantage point for capturing those elusive lights. 

Located just a 40-minute drive from Hobart, the South Arm Nature Recreation Area is close enough to Hobart for a quick evening trip yet far enough from the city lights to provide optimal darkness for aurora viewing. For those travelling in a motorhome or camper, parking is available at the Goat Bluff Lookout car park—a popular spot for aurora chasers—or along the roadside near the South Arm Nature Recreation Area. 

Where to Stay: Discovery Holiday Parks - Hobart Mornington. 

 

2. Bruny Island

Just south of Hobart, Bruny Island is known for its windswept beaches and lush rainforests. But for aurora enthusiasts, Bruny Island’s southernmost point—particularly The Neck and Cloudy Bay—is where you want to be. Both spots offer unobstructed views of the southern horizon, with minimal light, making them prime locations to witness the Aurora Australis in Tasmania. 

The journey to Bruny Island from Hobart involves a scenic 40-minute drive to the Kettering ferry terminal, followed by a 20-minute ferry ride. Once on the island, you can drive to The Neck Lookout, where parking is available for campervans at the car park near the boardwalk entrance. 

Where to Stay: The Pines Campground 

 

3. Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park

Nestled in the heart of Tasmania’s World Heritage Wilderness Area, Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park is not only one of the island’s most iconic natural attractions, but it also offers some of the best conditions for viewing the Aurora Australis in Tasmania. With its dramatic alpine peaks, clear lakes, and vast open skies, this park provides an extraordinary setting for a camper adventure. 

Best of all, the park’s remote location (approximately a 4.5-hour drive from Hobart) means dark skies—perfect for aurora sightings. The best viewing spots include the shores of Dove Lake, as well as the nearby peaks, which give you a perfect vantage point from which to spot those elusive auroras. 

When visiting Cradle Mountain in a campervan, you’ll find ample parking at the Dove Lake car park, which is accessible via the park’s shuttle service. Note that the car park can fill up quickly during peak times, so arriving early is recommended, especially if you plan to spend the evening stargazing and aurora-watching. 

Where to Stay: Discovery Parks - Cradle Mountain campground. 

 

4. Satellite Island

Tucked away in the sheltered waters of the D’Entrecasteaux Channel, Satellite Island is a hidden gem for those looking to view the Aurora Australis Tasmania in style. This privately owned island, just off the coast of Bruny Island, is known for its pristine wilderness, rugged cliffs, and uninterrupted southern views—a.k.a when you book a night here, you have the entire island to yourself! 

Getting to Satellite Island involves a short ferry ride from Kettering to Bruny Island, followed by a private boat transfer from Bruny’s Adventure Bay. This is perfect for luxury-loving travellers seeking an intimate, high-end experience. Imagine relaxing by the waterfront, with the southern lights shimmering above, free from any light pollution or crowded viewing spots (or anyone for that matter!) 

Where to Stay: Satellite Island Eco Lodge 

Image: Tourism Tasmania

 

5. Cockle Creek, Southwest National Park

Located at the southernmost tip of Tasmania, accessible by road, Cockle Creek is a gateway to the stunning Southwest National Park and one of the best spots to view the Aurora Australis. Cockle Creek is roughly a 2.5-hour drive south of Hobart, making it an easy addition to any Australia road trip itinerary. 

The wide-open beaches and clear southern skies make it an ideal viewing location for the aurora, with minimal light pollution and a horizon unobstructed by artificial lights. In addition to being an excellent spot for aurora chasing, Cockle Creek offers plenty of daytime adventures, from scenic walks along the coast to wildlife spotting, including dolphins and native birds. 

Where to Stay: Cockle Creek Campground 

 

6. Coles Bay

Tucked away on the edge of the stunning Freycinet National Park, Coles Bay is a picturesque coastal town known for its breathtaking scenery and, surprisingly, its potential as a spot to view the Aurora Australis Tasmania. The town is framed by the iconic pink granite peaks of the Hazards, and its southern-facing beaches provide a great vantage point for aurora spotting. 

Plus, during the day, you can explore some of Tasmania’s most famous landmarks, such as Wineglass Bay, Hazards Beach, and the Cape Tourville Lighthouse. Coles Bay is about a 2.5-hour drive from Hobart, making it a perfect addition to any Hobart to Launceston road trip itinerary. 

Where to Stay: BIG4 Iluka on Freycinet Holiday Park 

 

When to see the southern lights in Tasmania

Timing is everything when it comes to spotting the southern lights in Tasmania. Knowing the best times of year to visit Tasmania and ideal viewing conditions can significantly increase your chances. While the southern lights are visible year-round, your best bet is during Tasmania’s winter months—between May and August—when the nights are longer and the skies are clearer. This is also when solar activity peaks, increasing the chances of a strong aurora display. 

Aside from this, clear, cloudless nights are essential, as heavy cloud cover can obscure even the brightest aurora. Checking local weather forecasts and aurora alerts can help you pick the right night for a viewing attempt. Additionally, avoiding nights with a full moon is recommended, as the bright moonlight can diminish the visibility of the aurora’s colours. 

Lastly, as the aurora is triggered by bursts of energy from the sun, monitoring solar storm forecasts can give you a heads-up when conditions are likely to be favourable. Aurora chasers often rely on space weather maps to predict solar activity and increase their chances of witnessing the phenomenon. 

 

Photography tips for capturing aurora in the southern sky

Capturing the Aurora Australis in Tasmania on camera is not an easy feat, even for the most seasoned photographer. Below are some essential photography tips to help you get the best shots, allowing you to see so much more than is visible to the naked eye. 

1. Best camera settings for capturing the aurora

For DSLR Cameras: 

• Manual Mode: Switch to manual mode for full control over exposure settings. Automatic modes may struggle with the low-light conditions needed to capture the aurora. 

• Aperture: Use a wide aperture (f/2.8 or lower) to allow as much light as possible into your lens. 

• ISO: Start with an ISO between 800 and 1600. Higher ISO settings will capture more light, but be cautious of introducing too much noise, especially in very dark conditions. 

• Shutter Speed: Set a speed between 10 to 20 seconds. Shorter exposures will result in crisper details of the aurora, while longer exposures can blur the movement of the lights but increase brightness. 

• Focus: Manually set your lens to focus on infinity. Autofocus typically struggles in low light, so it’s better to rely on manual focus and test your settings before the aurora becomes visible. 

For Smartphones: 

• Use Pro Mode: If your smartphone has a pro or manual mode, use it to adjust settings like ISO, shutter speed, and focus. 

• ISO and Shutter Speed: Similar to DSLRs, aim for an ISO around 800-1600 and a shutter speed of 10-20 seconds. Some newer smartphones offer night modes that can automatically adjust these settings for you. 

• Tripod and Stability: Even with a smartphone, stability is key for capturing the aurora. Use a small tripod or prop your phone on a stable surface to prevent blurring. 

2. Recommended equipment and techniques for capturing the Aurora Australis

• Tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential for both DSLRs and smartphones. Long exposure shots require absolute stability to capture clear, sharp images. Lightweight, portable tripods are ideal for campervan travel. 

• Remote Shutter Release: For DSLRs, using a remote shutter release or a timer can prevent any camera shake when taking the shot. 

• Wide-Angle Lens: A wide-angle lens (14-24mm) is recommended to capture both the sweeping landscape and the broad arc of the aurora across the sky. 

• Extra Batteries and Power Banks: Cold temperatures can drain batteries faster, so bring extras for your DSLR and ensure your smartphone is fully charged with a power bank handy. 

3. How to set up your campervan for night photography

Travelling in a campervan hire gives you the unique advantage of setting up a comfortable and convenient base while waiting for the aurora to appear. Here’s how to optimise your setup: 

• Position Your Campervan Strategically: Park with a clear view of the southern horizon and away from any artificial light sources like streetlights or nearby buildings. Popular spots like Cradle Mountain or Bruny Island have designated viewing areas where you can park your campervan overnight. 

• Create a Dark Environment: Inside your campervan, minimise interior lights to prevent unwanted glare in your photos. Use blackout curtains if available, and rely on dim red lights if you need to move around inside. 

• Comfort Essentials: Staying warm and comfortable is key during long aurora-watching nights. Set up a cozy spot in your campervan with blankets and seating to relax while waiting. Bring along a thermos with hot drinks to stay warm and alert during the late hours. 

• Test Shots and Practice: Before heading out, practice your settings on a dark, starry night to familiarise yourself with your equipment. This will save you time and frustration when the aurora makes its appearance. 

Image: Tourism Tasmania

 

Travel and safety tips for seeing the southern lights in Tasmania

Planning a trip to see the southern lights is as much about preparation as it is about patience. Here are some essential travel tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience while hunting for the Aurora Australis in Tasmania: 

Prepare for Nighttime Viewing: Dress warmly in layers, as temperatures can drop significantly, especially in winter. Bring along hot drinks, snacks, and a reliable torch or headlamp. When parking in nature reserves or national parks, remember that some car parks close overnight. Double-check gate times to avoid getting locked in. Since driving at night in remote areas can be risky due to wildlife on the roads, it’s best to plan ahead and book a nearby campsite where you can stay until morning. 

Safety Considerations and Respectful Practices: Let someone know your plans, especially if you’re heading to more isolated locations. Stick to marked paths and be mindful of your surroundings—Tasmania’s wildlife, such as wallabies and wombats, are most active at dusk and dawn. Respect the natural environment by leaving no trace, and consider minimising your use of artificial light when setting up your spot to avoid disturbing others who are also there to watch the aurora. 

Campervan Travel Tips for Remote Locations: Exploring Tasmania by campervan gives you the freedom to move as conditions change, but it also requires some careful planning. Keep your fuel topped up, especially in remote areas where petrol stations can be few and far between. Stock up on essentials like food, water, and extra blankets before heading to more isolated spots. Tasmania’s narrow and winding roads can be challenging, so drive cautiously, particularly if you’re not familiar with the terrain. Use designated campsites, like those at Bruny Island or Cradle Mountain, as safe and comfortable bases while you explore. 

Want more information? The Aurora Chaser's Handbook by Margaret Sonnemann is a valuable resource for understanding auroras and planning safe trips. 

 

Ready to see the southern lights in Tasmania?

From the rugged southern tip of the South Arm Peninsula to the untouched wilderness of Cradle Mountain, Tasmania offers unparalleled opportunities to witness the Aurora Australis amongst the starry sky. While the Northern Hemisphere boasts vibrant light displays of the aurora borealis, the Southern Hemisphere's Aurora Australis provides a unique and equally mesmerising experience. 

Ready to see the Aurora Australis for yourself? You can easily book your Apollo camper online today and pick it up from any Apollo branch before setting off on your adventure. The southern aurora australis in Tasmania is waiting!