The Fossil Cliffs on Maria Island are a fascinating natural attraction that offers a glimpse into the Earth's distant past. Located on Maria Island, these cliffs are renowned for their rich fossil deposits, including clams, sea fans, corals, scallop shells, and sea lilies, which date back around 300 million years. The cliffs are composed of lime-rich sedimentary rocks, which were once mined for cement production. Visitors can enjoy a short walk from the Darlington Settlement to the cliffs, where they can explore the rock strata and observe the fossils up close.

Getting There

To visit the Fossil Cliffs, you need to take a passenger ferry from Triabunna to Maria Island. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes and arrives at Darlington, the starting point for the walk to the cliffs. It is important to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak times, as passenger numbers are limited. Once on the island, you can explore on foot or by bike, as there is no vehicle access. Remember to bring all necessary supplies, as there are no shops or cafes on the island.