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Rock formation · Port Arthur, Tasmania
Tessellated Pavement
Rock platform by the sea at Eaglehawk Neck, cracked into almost rectangular blocks that look like a tiled floor.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Tessellated Pavement
The Tessellated Pavement is a flat siltstone platform on the beach at Pirates Bay, in Eaglehawk Neck, about 25 km from Port Arthur. The rock has cracked into almost rectangular blocks that resemble a tiled floor.
The cracks result from pressure on the crust and the action of salt. Near the sea, where the rock stays wetter longer, the blocks wear away in the middle and form shallow basins; further inland, where they dry sooner, the edges wear first and the blocks stand in relief, like loaves.
A short path descends from the car park to the platform. At low tide you can walk on the rock and see pools with seaweed and small animals.
The site is at the start of the Tasman Peninsula and is often the first stop for those travelling from Hobart to Port Arthur.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Best time
At low tide, in the morning or late afternoon, when the low light highlights the blocks.
How to get there
By car, via the Arthur Highway, in Eaglehawk Neck, about 25 km from Port Arthur, with parking and a path down to the beach.
Tip
Check the tide table: at high tide part of the platform is covered. Wet rock is slippery.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Tessellated Pavement
What is the Tessellated Pavement?
A rock platform cracked into almost rectangular blocks, at the sea’s edge in Eaglehawk Neck.
When is the best time to see the Tessellated Pavement?
At low tide, when the platform is exposed.
Where is the Tessellated Pavement located?
On Pirates Bay beach in Eaglehawk Neck, on the route from Hobart to Port Arthur.