St Helens Point forms the southern side of the entrance to Georges Bay. The road from St Helens passes bayside settlements and boat ramps before reaching the broad dunes and exposed beaches at the end of the headland.
Follow the bay before the ocean
St Helens Point Road runs through Parnella, Steiglitz and Akaroa. Georges Bay is usually more sheltered than the open coast, but boating and swimming conditions still depend on wind, tide and local hazards. Use designated ramps and check Marine and Safety Tasmania advice before launching.
The Break O’Day Council identifies playground, barbecue and foreshore stops along this side of the bay. These are useful places to pause without parking on narrow verges or blocking residential access.
Peron Dunes has a controlled vehicle area
Peron Dunes is not an unrestricted driving area. Parks Tasmania confines vehicle use to a designated section because tyres and repeated tracks damage dune vegetation and can expose Aboriginal cultural heritage. Soft sand makes the entry difficult, and route closures can occur for fire, weather, track damage or disease control.
There is no camping at Peron Dunes. The nearest official options include Dora Point in Humbug Point Nature Recreation Area and Diana’s Basin farther south. Check the current campground rules, fire restrictions and dog zones before arrival.
Beerbarrel Beach faces the open sea
The road continues towards the Burns Bay boat ramp and access to Beerbarrel Beach. This is unpatrolled ocean frontage. Surf, rips and rock platforms require a more cautious approach than the bay shore, and conditions can change within the same visit.
Carry water, take rubbish away and stay off fragile dune faces. Return to St Helens for supplies, or make Binalong Bay and larapuna / Bay of Fires separate outings rather than treating every beach as one continuous drive.