Family-friendly itineraries
A major drawcard is the UNESCO World Heritage listed Convict Site, which provides a window into the era when Cockatoo Island was a convict gaol (1839-69). Further highlights include a waterfront campground, licensed cafes, a historic dockyard, holiday houses and apartments, guided and self-guided tours and exciting seasonal events.
Known to Sydney’s First Nations peoples as Wareamah, Cockatoo Island is just a short ferry ride from Sydney’s CBD. So, what are you waiting for? Plan a day trip or overnight stay!
Planning to visit? For a hassle-free experience, refer to the information below 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.
The privately-run Cockatoo Boat Storage offers casual berthing for private vessels at Camber Wharf on the island’s southern apron. To pay for casual berthing, head to Marina Café & Bar near the gangway. Overnight berths must be booked in advance by calling (02) 9940 0172 or emailing info@cockatoomarine.com.au. Bookings are not taken for casual daytime berthing and berthing is normally available, with the exception of the New Year’s Eve period. Most boats to 40' can be accommodated but there are restrictions above 30' length and 10m height, so call ahead to enquire about availability for overnight reservations. Fees are from $15 for 4 hours for a boat to 29' and $35 for vessels 30’and above. Overnight berthing to 29’ is $65 and for vessels 30’and above is $95. Visit cockatoomarine.com.au for details and overnight bookings.
Street parking is available near the ferry wharves at Woolwich, Greenwich, Chiswick, Huntleys Point, Drummoyne, Birchgrove and Balmain. Check signage for any restrictions.
From Monday 11 to Tuesday 19 August, the Industrial Precinct and most of the Eastern Apron will be closed to the public due to a private event. On Saturday 16 August, the Dog Leg Tunnel and parts of the upper island will be closed in the afternoon and evening. During this time, visitors can expect increased foot traffic and noise amplification. On Sunday 17 August, our Shipyard Tales Tour will be replaced with a Convict Prison Tour. Our holiday accommodation and other areas of the island will remain open to visitors during this period. We apologise for any inconvenience.
Biloela House is currently closed to the public while we repaint its interior. We are also taking the opportunity to consolidate and reimagine the exhibition space. These works commenced on 3 March 2025 and we anticipate being in a position to reopen Biloela House by the end of July 2025. In the meantime, you can still enjoy the veranda and lawn. We apologise for any inconvenience but look forward to sharing the new exhibition experience.
A section of Bolt Wharf along the eastern edge of Cockatoo Island has been closed to visitors. A fence has been erected for safety reasons and to isolate this area ahead of forthcoming conservation works to Bolt Wharf and cranes. This area will remain closed until sometime in 2026.
Due to remedial works taking place in the Industrial Precinct, temporary site fencing has been erected around Building 137, Building 138 and Building 143. Access to these buildings will be limited during this time. It is anticipated the works will be completed by July 2025.
Our Visitor Centre relies on the generosity and availability of our volunteers. While we endeavour to open from 10am to 4pm daily, we cannot guarantee the centre will always be open. In the event our Visitor Centre is closed, the Audio Tour will be unavailable.
Cockatoo Island is a former industrial site with cliffs and steep drops as well as occasional unmarked and uneven surfaces, voids, and trip hazards. For your safety, mind your step, wear appropriate footwear, stay alert for vehicles and construction activity, and monitor any children with you. The lower island is generally accessible by wheelchairs and mobility scooters; however, there are uneven surfaces, and some buildings are not suited to mobility aids. Further, accessing the plateau requires visitors to climb stairs and ascend rises. The campground is wheelchair accessible, with a dedicated shower and toilet available; however, tents have a step to enter, which is not suitable for wheelchair access. Priority works and major events may disrupt visitor access to areas of Cockatoo Island. Check our website for details and speak to our Visitor Centre staff for help, including alternative routes.
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.
The Harbour Trust maintains public toilets at Cockatoo Island, and these facilities are listed on the Department of Health’s National Public Toilet Map. The toilets available at this destination are listed below:
Cockatoo Island is patrolled by rangers from 7am to 4pm and by security personnel from 4pm and 7am. 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 (7am to 4pm). Alternatively, to contact a security officer, call 0433 632 791 (4pm to 7am).
Help ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors, by observing the below rules, enforceable by our rangers
Do not fish, do not smoke within buildings or within 5 metres of a café; do not litter or dump rubbish; do not erect gazebos or marquees (without a permit); do not operate remote-controlled vehicles (including drones); do not play amplified music (without a permit) or create excessive noise; do not undertake commercial activities (without a permit); do not hold private functions (without a permit); do not climb cliffs or on historical structures; do not ride or use skateboards, roller-skates, in line skates or similar equipment on Harbour Trust land. For further information, see: Sydney Harbour Federation Trust (SHFT) Regulations 2021
To prevent unsafe alcohol consumption and curb anti-social behaviour, alcohol rules are enforced on the island. Visitors (with the exception of apartment and heritage house guests) are not permitted to bring alcohol onto the island. Alcohol consumption is permitted at the island’s two licensed venues, Cockatoo Overboard and the Marina Café & Bar. For further details, see: FAQs.
No animals, except for assistance animals (as defined by the Disability Discrimination Act 1992), are permitted to access Cockatoo Island.
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
Cockatoo Island features 2 family-friendly cafes, both of which are licensed to serve alcohol and operate 7 days a week.
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: Cafe menu available daily, kitchen menu offered Thursday to Sunday. Last kitchen orders are 60 mins prior to close, alcohol/coffee service ends 30 mins prior to close.]
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To book a private function, contact the Events Manager on 0457 571 610. For more info, email enquiries@cockatoomarinacafe.bar, call 1300 228 326 or visit the venue's website.
Located on the Eastern Apron, just opposite the Visitor Centre, Cockatoo Overboard offers 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 60 mins prior to close.]
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For all cafe enquiries please call (02) 9555 5586 or email info@cockatoooverboard.com.au.
For all corporate, event and school catering enquiries please call 0434 372 260 or email hello@societecatering.com.au.
To order a BBQ pack, please click here.
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.
Journey back to Cockatoo Island’s convict and shipyard eras with our program of guided history tours. Our tours cater for different ages and interests – from history buffs through to families and seniors’ clubs.
Bordered by landscaped gardens, Cockatoo Island’s holiday houses and apartments combine authentic heritage character with modern amenities and harbour views. Meanwhile, our waterfront campground is an opportunity to unwind in a spectacular outdoor setting and watch the sun set and rise on Sydney Harbour.
Journey through Cockatoo Island’s layered history at your own pace with our 3 immersive audio tours. As you explore historic spaces and discover iconic landmarks, you’ll hear the stories of those who once lived, worked or were imprisoned here.
Across 8 exciting stops, you'll explore historic buildings, hear the First Nations story of Burriburri the whale, play a convict game and meet an ancient amphibian. Suitable for kids aged 6 to 10 years.
Specialist volunteers now carry out maintenance checks on Cockatoo Island’s steam cranes on the first Tuesday of every month. Planning to visit on an upcoming maintenance check day? Pop by the Docks Precinct between 10:30am and 1:30pm to see a demonstration of a steam crane that dates to the island’s storied dockyard era (1857 to 1992). Steam and spectacle – plus some toots and whistles – guaranteed!
Cockatoo Island is far from the hustle and bustle of Sydney’s CBD, making it an idyllic place for a picnic. Ascend to Biloela Lawn for a panoramic harbour view or head to the Northern Apron Park for free BBQ facilities and seating. Visiting with a large group? The campground kitchen can be booked for $250 and features shaded seats, BBQs, hot water, fridges and microwaves.
Enjoy a scenic workout with one of four orienteering courses, each commencing at Cockatoo Island's Muster Station. An initiative of Orienteering NSW, they cater for different fitness levels and experience and can be completed with the official orienteering map or the MapRunF mobile app (FREE).
Image credit: Tony Hill (photographer), supplied by Orienteering NSW
Explore Australia’s rich naval history with a guided ‘West of the Harbour Bridge’ cruise from our friends at the Naval Historical Society of Australia. Enjoy stunning views of the city's iconic landmarks and learn about the role of the Royal Australian Navy in protecting Australia's shores. Expert guides will provide fascinating commentary on the naval history of the area as you cruise past naval vessels, historic dockyards and important naval sites.
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.
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.
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 the Visitor Centre.
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 accommodation guests 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).
Take a break and fly a kite on the Eastern Apron, with the Sydney Harbour Bridge as your backdrop.
Marvel at Cockatoo Island's Powerhouse and it's towering chimney. Built in 1918, the Powerhouse was the largest open-fronted DC generating plant in Australia and powered the island’s operations for decades.
Take a short cut through the 180-metre Dog Leg Tunnel. Once used to move workers and materials, it later served as an air raid shelter during the Second World War.
Cockatoo Island has a remarkable history as a shipbuilding and ship repair facility. Peer into the convict-built Sutherland and Fitzroy Docks.
Walk through the cathedral-like Turbine Shop, once home to the Pacific's top ship repair hub.
Walk through the UNESCO Heritage listed Convict Precinct. Explore iconic landmarks including the Barracks, Mess Hall, Guard House and Solitary Confinement Cells.
Before heading home, take in the panoramic views from Biloela Lawn and strike a post with Sydney Harbour as your backdrop.
Only have a few hours to explore Cockatoo Island? Follow our family-friendly half-day itinerary to discover Cockatoo Island’s key landmarks at your own pace.
Want to make the most of your day on Cockatoo Island? Designed for families, our full-day itinerary includes guided tours, must-see landmarks, breathtaking views, waterfront cafes and more!
Looking to visit, stay at or tour Cockatoo Island? Here are some useful links.
Cockatoo Island is one of 11 historic sites that together form the Australian Convict Sites World Heritage Property.
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