Picnic locations

Visitors at the Cockatoo Island Festival

visitors having a picnic

Both the lower island and upper island have scenic and shady picnic spots. Just remember there's a fairly steep hill up to upper island to carry your bulging Eski up, so leave out that last sandwich!

If you can't wait to break into that packed lunch, there's a picnic spot at the campground, just near where you get off the ferry. It's also a good spot to reward yourself at the end of your visit. The Muster Station café is also nearby so you can supplement your picnic with a nice cup of tea or a beer.

The upper island offers two picnic spots. It's well worth the walk up as the views of the harbour and city skyline are glorious, and you'll be surprised at the leafy residential setting near the Federation housing, in contrast to the more industrial feel of the Lower Island.

The tap water on the island is Sydney tapwater and drinkable. Please note that for a short period, while we reconnect services, there will only be toilets on the lower island, not on the upper island.

Please remember that portable barbecues are not permitted on the island. However we do provide electric BBQs near the Campground on the lower island (bring along $1 coins to operate). Also be aware that you cannot bring alcohol onto the island, although the café is fully licensed.