Couples can picnic on Biloela Lawn, book waterfront camping or heritage houses and join lantern-lit night tours for shared memories, but limited shade and many concrete surfaces reduce comfort on hot days.
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Allows time for a guided tour, picnic at Biloela Lawn and a walk through convict ruins
Harbour-view picnic:
Grab takeaway from Cockatoo Overboard and barbecue at Northern Apron Park
Tip: Bring your own snacks or pre-order from the café to secure a prime lawn spot
Talking Object & Animal Tour:
Scan turquoise “Hello” signs to hear convict and First Nations stories
Tip: Download the app before arrival for offline use
Island Highlights Guided Tour:
Join a 60-minute small-group walk through convict prison and dockyard landmarks
Tip: Book online to secure a weekend slot; tours run Saturdays at 11 am and Sundays at 1:30 pm
Self-Guided Audio Tour:
Follow a 26-stop route with a handheld device or QR-code map
Tip: Pick up a handset at the Visitor Centre or buy the $10 web tour for BYO device
Waterfront campground stay:
Pitch a tent on Clarke Bay for sunrise views over Sydney Harbour
Tip: Reserve in advance; bring warm layers for cooler nights
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Item | Cost (Approx.) |
---|---|
Return ferry (2 adults) | AUD 27 |
Audio tour (2 adults) | AUD 12 |
Meal at café | AUD 20 |
Total Estimated | AUD 59 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Summer: pack suncream and water; winter: wear layers and windproof jackets
Address: Cockatoo Island, New South Wales 2110, Australia
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haya tarazi
Had a brilliant day out at Cockatoo Island with family and friends! We grabbed a map and went on the stamp hunt—once we collected all six, we got a fun little sticker as a reward. Such a great way to explore the place! Tried the cheeseburger there and it was absolutely delicious. There were other food options like pizza and a few food trucks, though they were a bit pricey. Loved that there was a s...
Zeph
We took the short ferry trip from Barangaroo to a less crowded spot in Sydney Harbour. The remnants of this penal colony provide a stark contrast with modern architecture and skyscrapers across the waters. The establishment and grounds are well-preserved and worth an easy two hour stroll following the trail on visitor map. Audio commentary is available.
sam
Beautiful island!! Not a single cockatoo tho... it doesn't matter cause there's so much to do here. Alot of walking and exploring. You are immersed into the (very short) history of Australia. We hopped onto a ferry from Drumoyne to the island. The most interesting area was the convict prison section, it is a great insight into to the poor conditions that prisoners dealt with. Also!! Apparently the...
Tasmia Mariam
It’s a beautiful place for a day trip with friends and family. There are only two cafes, so would recommend grabbing snacks and bites for the little ones if required or simply purchase from there. Great amount of history.
Korean Traveller
Cockatoo Island was a fascinating place to visit! The mix of history, industrial ruins, and waterfront views made it a unique destination. Walking around the island, I could see remnants of its past as a shipyard and prison, which added to its charm. The open spaces and picnic areas were perfect for relaxing, and the harbour views were stunning. It’s also a great spot for camping or just a day tr...
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