Settle into island time. This is a place where every passer-by says “g’day,” and more than 120 secluded beaches beckon. “Hurry” happens elsewhere.

Flinders Island is the largest of the 52 islands in the Furneaux Group, adrift in Bass Strait off Tasmania’s north-east coast. Soft, sandy shorelines and granite-plated mountain peaks invite your exploration. The island-off-the-island has a small population of friendly locals, rugged scenery, and a growing reputation for delivering distinctive paddock-to-plate experiences.

As time slows to the turn of the tides, meander the curl of a perfect white beach and fossick for aquatic treasures.

Pause to reflect on the consequences of colonialism and feel the tragedy of Wybalenna, where more than 100 palawa, or Tasmanian Aboriginal people, were exiled in the 19th century.

Flinders Island is also home to some of Tasmania’s best day walks. Hike a loop around Trousers Point to explore unusual rock formations, expansive sandy beaches, caves, and granite headlands jutting intrepidly into the ocean. Scale a steep, forested path to the windy heights of granite-clad Strzelecki Peaks, the island’s highest mountain. This imposing natural landmark rises dramatically out of the ocean on the island’s southern end, like a fortress against the elements. Or beach-hop your way to Castle Rock, a massive granite boulder on the shores of Marshall Beach. Then snorkel beneath crystal-clear waters as you chill out in the company of schools of colourful fish.

Dine on seafood and produce delivered to a wharf restaurant door by the local fishers and farmers. Flinders Island is well regarded for the freshness and quality of its produce – including the sweet salty goodness of crayfish, abalone and scallops, or the succulent rich flavours of pasture-fed lamb and beef. Enjoy sipping a sample from the island’s cellar door or discover the peaty punch of an island whisky. Bask in the warmth of the setting sun as it sinks over the ocean, bathing the waves in dusky hues of orange, pink and purple.

Hike, kayak, fish, snorkel – all in a morning, if you like. Or simply lay out a towel, settle in and enjoy serenity upon the sand of ruggedly beautiful Flinders Island.