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Have your say – Draft Concept Vision (NEW)
Cockatoo Island is a source of intrigue and inspiration for visitors owing to its heritage buildings, distinctive terrain and panoramic views. Popular attractions include heritage and campground accommodation, waterfront cafés and picnic spots, guided history and paranormal tours, and exciting seasonal events such as the Biennale of Sydney, New Year's Eve and music concerts. Located at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers, Cockatoo Island is just a ferry ride away (See 'Getting here').
Planning to visit? To ensure your time with us is enjoyable and hassle-free, refer to the below information ahead of your trip…
The easiest way to get to Cockatoo Island is by Public ferry. The F3 and F8 services operate to Cockatoo Island daily, departing from Circular Quay and Barangaroo as well as from wharves along Parramatta River. For further information, including timetables, visit the Transport NSW website. You can also visit Cockatoo Island by water taxi, private boat or kayak.
Sydney Event Cruises offer private transport to and from Cockatoo Island for small and large groups. A luxury limousine and large charge vessel hire can be arranged for up to 300 people, enabling your group to arrive in style to Cockatoo Island via Camber wharf. Call Sydney Event Cruises directly on 0407 973 508.
Boat mooring: Private vessels may use Camber Marina on the island's southern apron. Pay for casual berthing at Marina Café & Bar near the gangway. Overnight berths must be booked in advance by calling 9940 0172 or emailing info@cockatoomarine.com.au. Most boats to 42' can be accommodated but there are restrictions above 30' length and 10m height so call ahead to enquire about availability. Fees are $15 for 4 hours for a boat to 29'. Please visit cockatoomarine.com.au for details and overnight bookings.
Car parking: Street parking is available near the ferry wharves at Woolwich, Greenwich, Chiswick, Huntleys Point, Drummoyne, Birchgrove and Balmain. Check signage for any restrictions.
Visitor centre – Conditions of entry: When entering the visitor centre, visitors (including accommodation guests and tourgoers) are required to scan a QR code to complete a COVID Safe check-in with Service NSW.
Visitor centre – significant weather events: In the event of extreme weather or an Extreme\Catastrophic Fire Ratings, the Visitor Centre will be closed.
Maintenance works at Camber Wharf: As part of the Harbour Trust’s ongoing maintenance program, works will soon commence on the upgrade of the barging facilities on the southern side of the island, and the repair and replacement of the degraded Camber Wharf and adjacent timber jetty. The works are expected to take 4 months to complete (weather permitting) and will include installation of new timber piles, timber decking and handrails.
During the works, part of the seating area for Marina Café and Bar will be temporarily relocated onto the adjacent hardstand. The venue will be closed on 19 and 20 May, to enable set up of the new seating area, before reopening on 21 May.
Marina’s trading hours and menu of the Marina Café & Bar will be unchanged whilst the upgrade works to the Camber Wharf and timber jetty are underway. The seating area for the Marina Café and Bar will return to its previous location at the end of the works (mid-August).
Public ferries: Be aware that ferries currently have capacity restrictions to ensure safe physical distancing between passengers. For further information, including timetables, visit the Transport NSW website.
Cockatoo Island has wheelchair access, toilet facilities (including accessible toilets), vending machines, barbeques, showers, an Opal card top-up machine, a kitchen (for exclusive use by campers), free Wi-Fi (enquire at the Visitor Centre) and gold coin operated lockers. Located in the Muster Station, each locker contains power outlets for charging devices. Small lockers (20cm x 20cm x 40cm) are available $2 for eight hours or $4 for 24 hours. Medium lockers (30cm x 40cm x 60cm) are available for $4 for eight hours or $8 for 24 hours. Large lockers (55cm x 60cm x 90cm) are available for $8 for eight hours or $12 for 24 hours.
Most areas of the island are wheelchair accessible; however, there is a steep incline from the lower island to the upper plateau, and – owing to the island’s industrial heritage – there are uneven surfaces as well as some buildings not accessible by wheelchair.
Cockatoo Island is patrolled by rangers from 8am to 4pm and by security personnel from 4pm and 8am. In the event of an emergency, dial 000 or 112 if mobile reception is poor. To contact a ranger during an emergency, call 0434 652 153 (8am to 4pm). Alternatively, to contact a security officer, call 0433 632 791 (4 pm to 8 am).
Help ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, by observing the following rules, enforceable by our rangers:
Can't find what you're looking for? Our FAQs page contains further visitor information. Topics include the consumption of alcohol, our bag check and photography policies, guide animals and the island's amenities
The Harbour Trust is following advice from the NSW Department of Health and the World Health Organisation and has implemented measures to ensure the health and safety of our visitors, volunteers and staff.
Please be mindful that Cockatoo Island’s seagulls are currently in nesting season and can become noisy and aggressive if approached. Although we have taken steps to minimise the inconvenience for visitors, including accommodation guests, we encourage people to keep their distance where possible.
Looking for things to do in Sydney? Cockatoo Island is a scenic destination where you can engage with Sydney's historical narrative as part of a day trip or overnight stay...
Head to Marina Café & Bar between 2pm and 4:30pm on Saturday 19 June for an afternoon of live music. Enjoy food and a refreshment in Marina’s beer garden as emerging pop, RnB and jazz singer Bel Woods soundtracks your island outing. This event is entirely free but bookings are strongly encouraged.
See also: Cockatoo Island – Eat and drink
Are you a passionate orienteer or outdoor enthusiast? Explore historic Cockatoo Island – and enjoy a very scenic workout – with Orienteering NSW’s program of orienteering courses.
A great activity for campers, scouts and students, the Cockatoo Island orienteering program consists of four courses, catering for different fitness levels and experience. The courses range from 600m to 3.5km, meaning beginners have an opportunity to develop their navigational skills while experienced orienteers can test their mettle.
Each course commences at the Muster Station and can be completed with either a paper map, available from Cockatoo Island’s visitor centre, or the MapRunF mobile app (FREE), available to download from the App Store and Google Play.
Image credit: Tony Hill (photographer), supplied by Orienteering NSW
One of Cockatoo Island’s popular cafes, Societé Overboard, is hosting a series of modern high tea functions on the verandah of historic Biloela House. Running three times a day on select Sundays until the end of September, Societe’s high tea experience is an opportunity to indulge in savoury and sweet delights (including homemade scones with jam and cream) as you bask in a sweeping view of Sydney Harbour.
See also: Cockatoo Island – Eat and drink
Journey back to Cockatoo Island’s storied convict and maritime eras – or dare to step into the supernatural realm – with our program of history and paranormal tours. The program caters for different ages, interests and personalities – from history buffs and ghost seekers through to families and seniors’ clubs. Our tours are also a great opportunity to discover iconic landmarks, including heritage buildings rarely opened to the general public.
Surrounded by landscaped gardens with sweeping views, our apartments and holiday houses marry heritage character and with modern amenities. Meanwhile, our campground represents an opportunity to sleep under the stars in the heart of the world’s best harbour.
We’ve brought some of our iconic landmarks to life! Next time you visit, follow the trail of teal ‘Hello’ signs to chat with the waterfront campground, the convict quarters, the WWII searchlight tower and other points of interest! To strike up a friendly conversation, follow the simple instructions on each sign. You’ll learn local history, receive hot tips for enjoying your visit and have opportunities to provide us feedback.
Pack a meal and ascend to Biloela Lawn in the Historic Residence Precinct for unspoilt vistas. Alternatively, head to the Northern Apron Park on the lower island to use our free BBQ facilities, shaded seating and sprawling green space.
Campground kitchen (incl. shaded seating, BBQs, hot water, fridges, microwaves) also available for group bookings of up to 30 people at a cost of $250.
Visiting with kids? Head to the visitor centre for a free activity book. Suitable for kids aged 12 and under, the book includes challenges such as Convict Clues and Ship Shape, which encourage interaction with the island's rich history.
Located in Biloela House on the upper plateau, Shipyard Stories is an exhibition of archival imagery celebrating the island’s storied maritime history.
Play a game of basketball at our harbour-side court, a short distance from the ferry wharf. Bring a basketball or hire one from the visitor centre for $5.
What’s better than playing a game of chess in your living room? Playing a game on our giant, outdoor chess board, surrounded by Sydney Harbour! Head to the island’s eastern apron, it’s your move!
Located in the Convict Precinct, our Campground Cinema is an opportunity for campers to kick back in a plush bean bag and enjoy a free selection of films. The cinema can comfortably accommodate up to 30 people. Group cinematic experiences can be arranged through the Accommodation Team ($5 per person – includes popcorn).
As night falls, gravitate to the warmth of our campground firepit and share stories, both spooky and funny, as you enjoy flame-roasted marshmallows. Note: Marshmallow bags (including sticks) available for $5 from visitor centre.
A true test of hand-eye coordination and depth perception, corn hole is a game where players take turns attempting to throw beanbags into a raised hole. We also offer highly addictive variations on the classic ring toss game (Finska, Quoits and Hoopla) and Frescobal – a paddle ball game popular in Brazil. Games available at visitor centre.
Make a grand entrance by kayak at Slipway Number 2 where the historic ships were once built. Kayaks can be left at this slipway, but please remember that items are left at your own risk so take any valuables with you. Kayaks are not available for hire on Cockatoo Island.
Cockatoo Island features two family-friendly cafés, both of which are licensed to serve alcohol...
Located alongside Camber Wharf, this harbour-side hangout exudes country-style pub charm. Relax with a beverage or coffee in the beer garden and take advantage of a diverse menu that includes gluten free, dairy free and vegan options.
[Note: Café menu available daily, kitchen menu offered Wednesday to Sunday. Last kitchen orders are 60 mins prior to close, alcohol/coffee service ends 30 mins prior to close.]
[Update: Due to upgrade works to Camber Wharf and the adjacent timber wharf, Marina Café & Bar will be CLOSED on 19 and 20 May to enable the temporary relocation of its seating area. Marina will resume operating on 21 May and its seating area will return to its previous location when the works are complete (mid-August). See ‘Disruptions’ for further details.]
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To book a private function, contact the Events Manager on 0419 632 091. For more info, email enquires@cockatoomarinacafe.bar, call 1300 228 326 or visit the venue's website.
Just a short stroll from the ferry wharf, Societé Overboard offer diners an opportunity to enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner – as well as a selection of hot, cold and alcoholic refreshments – as they take in an incredible harbour view.
[Note: Kitchen shuts 45 mins prior to close. Dinner menu only available on Saturday.]
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For more information, call 0434 372 260, (02) 9555 5586 or email societecatering@bigpond.com.
Cockatoo Island intersects the homelands of the Wallumedegal, Wangal, Cammeraygal and Gadigal Peoples, who inhabited the area for thousands of years prior to European settlement...
Sandstone buildings and other remnant structures from the island's convict era (1839 to 1869) offer insights into the conditions endured by people who were exiled to Australia and put to work on the colony’s ambitious building projects. Meanwhile, the Industrial, Docks and Ship Design Precincts – together with Cockatoo Island’s towering heritage cranes – offer a window into the island’s storied maritime era (1857 to 1991). Since 2001, the island has been protected by the Harbour Trust.
The Harbour Trust has launched a collection of immersive exhibitions on the Google Arts & Culture platform, meaning people can experience the island and other extraordinary places on Sydney Harbour anytime, anywhere in the world. Jump online and visit their collection to learn about the island's First Nations stories, towering heritage cranes and layered history.
The community is invited to have their say on a Draft Concept Vision for Cockatoo Island / Wareamah...
The release of the Draft Concept Vision follows a 2019 public consultation campaign, where the community and other stakeholders with an interest in Cockatoo Island were invited to share what they value about the destination as well as their aspirations for it. Opportunities to have your say include completing an online survey. Consultation closes 5pm on 11 June 2021.
Image: An artist's impression of the Draft Concept Vision
Harbour Trust
Visit overview
Cockatoo Island
Headland Park
Macquarie Lightstation
Marine Biological Station
North Head Sanctuary
Sub Base Platypus
Woolwich Dock and Parklands
