One of the most stunning features on Maria Island are the Painted Cliffs.

Only accessible within 2 hours of low tide these cliffs are famous for their incredible swirling colours and patterns, caused by groundwater running down the sandstone and staining the rocks. You can check the tide before you visit at the Maria Island Gateway or at the Visitor Information and Rangers Station on the island.

You can walk the grade 3 track (2 hours return) from Darlington but we opted to ride bikes which you can hire through the ferry provider Encounter Maria for $33 a day or $25 per day for 2 days or more (you need book bikes at least 24 hours in advance of your departure). It was such a fun way to see the island and get some exercise in at the same time!