Cockatoo Island
Island · Leichhardt ·

Cockatoo Island

Island · Leichhardt ·

UNESCO World Heritage site with convict & shipbuilding history

historic site
ferry ride
walking tours
industrial heritage
sydney harbour
unesco world heritage site
cafe
glamping
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by Photo courtesy of Sydney Harbour Federation Trust
Cockatoo Island by Courtesy Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island by Courtesy Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island by Photo courtesy of Sydney Harbour Federation Trust
Cockatoo Island by Photo courtesy of Sydney Harbour Federation Trust
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null
Cockatoo Island by null

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New South Wales 2110, Australia Get directions

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New South Wales 2110, Australia Get directions

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Last updated

Dec 19, 2025

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@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,699 Cities

"The largest and most storied of the Sydney Harbour islands, Cockatoo was once an Aboriginal fishing ground, a naval shipyard, a girls' reform school, and a gruesome prison. Today, it offers fascinating walking tours, a casual café, and a number of events such as the Biennale of Sydney. When most visitors line up in the evening to catch the ferry home, those staying on the island are just setting off on a leisurely sunset stroll. They can watch the city light up from what feels like another world and then retreat to their campsite, canvas "glamping" tent, heritage home, or modern apartment until they wake up to birds and boats the next morning."

Day and Overnight Trips from Sydney
Photo courtesy of Sydney Harbour Federation Trust
Cockatoo Island
@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,699 Cities

"The largest and most storied of the Sydney Harbour islands, Cockatoo was once an Aboriginal fishing ground, a naval shipyard, a girls' reform school, and a gruesome prison. Today, it offers fascinating walking tours, a casual café, and a number of events such as the Biennale of Sydney. When most visitors line up in the evening to catch the ferry home, those staying on the island are just setting off on a leisurely sunset stroll. They can watch the city light up from what feels like another world and then retreat to their campsite, canvas "glamping" tent, heritage home, or modern apartment until they wake up to birds and boats the next morning."

Sydney's Best Museums and Cultural Attractions
Photo courtesy of Sydney Harbour Federation Trust
Cockatoo Island
@afar
25,132 Postcards · 3,699 Cities

"The largest and most storied of the Sydney Harbour islands, Cockatoo was once an Aboriginal fishing ground, a naval shipyard, a girls' reform school, and a gruesome prison. Today, it offers fascinating walking tours, a casual café, and a number of events such as the Biennale of Sydney. When most visitors line up in the evening to catch the ferry home, those staying on the island are just setting off on a leisurely sunset stroll. They can watch the city light up from what feels like another world and then retreat to their campsite, canvas "glamping" tent, heritage home, or modern apartment until they wake up to birds and boats the next morning."

The Best Districts and Neighborhoods to Visit in Sydney
Photo courtesy of Sydney Harbour Federation Trust
Cockatoo Island
@cntraveler
41,950 Postcards · 5,615 Cities

22 Best Things to Do in Sydney

"A UNESCO World Heritage site, rugged Cockatoo Island combines colonial convict history with industrial shipbuilding heritage. Pick up an island map from the visitor center and explore. For a small fee, 90-minute, self-guided audio tours offer insight into Cockatoo’s layered past; you also can book ticketed guided tours online, including private convict precinct tours and lower Island, shipyard and night-time haunted history tours for groups. Spending time here is memorable and moving, so plan for at least half a day." - Sophie Davies

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/what-to-do-in-sydney-this-month
Courtesy Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island
@cntraveler
41,950 Postcards · 5,615 Cities

22 Best Things to Do in Sydney

"A UNESCO World Heritage site, rugged Cockatoo Island combines colonial convict history with industrial shipbuilding heritage. Pick up an island map from the visitor center and explore. For a small fee, 90-minute, self-guided audio tours offer insight into Cockatoo’s layered past; you also can book ticketed guided tours online, including private convict precinct tours and lower Island, shipyard and night-time haunted history tours for groups. Spending time here is memorable and moving, so plan for at least half a day." - Sophie Davies

https://www.cntraveler.com/gallery/best-things-to-do-in-sydney
Courtesy Cockatoo Island
Cockatoo Island

C. H.

Google
This is a very beautiful place. It is quiet and calm with a very interesting history. The ferry ride makes it even better

Ayano F.

Google
It's a place with a very interesting history. It was a great opportunity for my elementary school-aged children to learn about history. The scenery was beautiful, and it was a pleasant walk. There is also a cafe on the island, so you can relax and enjoy yourself.

Ben K.

Google
It’s a really fascinating place to visit especially the large Turbine warehouse in the industrial area, very impressive and a super cool location for photos. You can see everything in 2-3 hours if you’re taking your time which is just the amount of time I reckon. Now there is one negative which isn’t cockatoo islands fault but the ferry service on the weekends especially Saturdays or long weekends gets very busy going back to circular quay as the ferry is already packed when it arrives to collect you…after midday the first two ferry’s were full. After waiting 20 mins for the next one to find it’s also full is annoying as you can get stuck on cockatoo island for over an hour from your intended departure time…essentially they should put more on peak days. That said it’s still cool and worth a visit.

charles C.

Google
A nice quiet island in the inner Sydney Harbour. Only 20min ferry ride from Circular Quay. Small island and easy for a walk. Good to spend a few hours or an afternoon there. A few camping facilities there (seems can be rented), and 2 food outlets. Post-industrial and a number of education and cultural remnants on the island. A place in Sydney other than nature.

Zeph

Google
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.

haya T.

Google
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 spot to sit down, eat, and enjoy live music—someone was playing guitar and singing, which really added to the vibe. All up, a wonderful experience! 🤩💖

Susie H.

Google
Historic places lovely view and harbour, catch the ferry to go there

Dilum B.

Google
Excellent experience with a ferry ride and guided or self guided walk. It’s amazing to see how the island has transformed over 160+ years. Some exhibits were closed. Kids may have varying experience depending on whether they love those kids of things. My kids said 2-3 stars. Cafe coffee and milkshakes and not the best, feels watery