Unwind in our waterfront campground – or one of our charming holidays houses or apartments – and participate in a range of great activities. From picnic-style gigs and guide-led tours through to self-led experiences, such as our fun-filled family tour and immersive audio tours, there's something for everone!
Best of all? Getting here is easy! The F3 and F8 ferry services operate to the island daily, departing from Circular Quay and Barangaroo as well as from wharves along Parramatta River. To arrive in just 10 minutes, hop on the F3 fast ferry at Barangaroo. Your island holiday is a just a ferry ride away!
Stay in one of our holiday houses or apartments between 1 to 27 December 2025 and save 15% off your booking. Valid for bookings made between 17 November and 15 December 2025. Book online now and enter promo code SYDNEYSUMMER when selecting your dates to claim this exclusive offer (T&Cs apply).
Rates: From $55 per night | Sleeps: Up to 4 guests
This affordable option is an opportunity to enjoy an authentic, DIY camping experience. It includes an unpowered 4m x 4m site for a tent that sleeps up to 4 guests. Tent not included.
Rates: From $105 per night | Sleeps: 3 adults OR 3 adults & 2 small children
Ideal for families, this package features a pre-erected tent for up to 3 adults OR 2 adults and 2 small children.
Rates: From $142 per night | Sleeps: 2 guests
Avoid the hassle of tent set up with this convenient package. It includes a pre-furnished tent for 2 guests plus toiletries.
Rates: From $162 per night | Sleeps: Up to 3 guests
This package includes a pre-furnished tent for 2 guests directly on the waterfront plus toiletries. Bedding for an additional guest is available for hire.
Rates: From $336 per night | Sleeps: Up to 6 guests (rates vary)
This package includes 2 pre-furnished tents, with capacity for 4 guests, plus a covered communal area and toiletries. Bedding for up to 2 additional guests is available for hire.
Rates: From $315 per night | Sleeps: 2 guests
This package is ideal for couples seeking a slice of luxury or a romantic getaway. It includes a 4m x 4m dome tent, double bed, deck, dedicated power source, a welcome pack and a cockatoo plush toy.
Rates: From $335 per night | Sleeps: 2 to 3 guests (rates vary)
Formerly the island’s fire station, this tastefully restored studio apartment on the lower island offers panoramic views across Parramatta River.
Rates: From $350 per night | Sleeps: 2 to 5 guests (rates vary)
Situated near Biloela Lawn on the upper island, our 3 Harbour View Apartments each boast a large entertaining balcony overlooking Sydney Harbour.
Rates: From $644 per night | Sleeps: 8 to 12 guests (rates vary)
Completed in 1916, our 2 Federation-style heritage houses represent an ideal R&R setting. Set amidst lush gardens on the upper island, with views of Hunters Hill, each house has room to accommodate up to 12 guests.
Cost: $38 per ticket (kids 12 & under free) | Date: 10 Jan to 14 Mar
Sunset Sessions has returned to Cockatoo Island! Running Saturday afternoons from 10 January and 4 April, the popular live music series is the perfect mix of great tunes, harbour views and summer vibes.
Cost: $10 per person (BYO device and headphones)
Turn your phone into a guide with our 3 immersive audio tours. As you explore a historic convict prison and dockyard, you’ll hear the stories of those who once lived, worked or were imprisoned here.
Cost: $5 per booklet (includes a pencil & paper flags)
Entertain young adventurers with our affordable family tour, 'Our day at Cockatoo Island'. This self-guided experience involves the use of a colourful booklet and includes opportunities for kids to play historic games and complete creative challenges. No need to book. Also available in Chinese.
Cost: From $109 per person | Date: 29 Nov
Experience Australia's first Urban and Reggaeton Festival on Saturday 29 November. For one night only, Cockatoo Island will transform into the ultimate Latin music destination. More than 50 artists featured, including Nicky Jam.
Cost: From $20 per person
Journey to Cockatoo Island’s storied convict and dockyard eras with our guided history tours. We offer 5 guided tours for all ages, including options for visitors with low mobility.
Whether you have just a few hours, a full day or plan to camp overnight, we’ve crafted the perfect family-friendly itineraries to make the most of your time.
Only have a few hours to spare? Our half-day itinerary is perfect for solo explorers, couples or friends looking to uncover Cockatoo Island’s iconic landmarks and highlights.
Have a whole day to explore Cockatoo Island? Follow our full-day itinerary to explore the island's most iconic landmarks, hidden gems and unmissable experiences.
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.
Planning to visit? For a hassle-free experience, refer to the information below ahead of your trip.
For information about getting here, including by public transport, see: Plan your trip.
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:
Can't find what you're looking for? Our FAQs page contains further visitor information.
Cockatoo Island is a former industrial site and the family tour route includes uneven surfaces as well as small number of stairs. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend embarking on this tour at your own pace.
Looking to visit, stay 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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