Browse houses in Saltwater River

Overview

Saltwater River is a quiet rural locality in the Tasman local government area of south‑east Tasmania, situated about 14 km north of Nubeena and 23 km from the historic Port Arthur. With a modest population of 123 recorded in the 2016 census, the community enjoys a coastal setting where the waters of Norfolk Bay form its north‑eastern boundary, offering tranquil waterfront views and easy access to nearby natural features such as Barnicoats Hill.

The area’s character is shaped by its penal‑colony past; the Coal Mines Historic Site, now on the Australian National Heritage List, preserves the ruins of former agricultural and mining settlements. Residents rely on Route C341 (Saltwater River Road) for road access, while local housing consists of low‑density rural dwellings typical of the Tasman Peninsula. Although the post office closed in 1970, the heritage landscape provides a unique lifestyle centred on history, nature and a relaxed pace of life.