Things to Do in Cockatoo Island

One of the must things to do in Cockatoo Island is to opt for overnight camping experience. Take a respite from the hustle and bustle of Sydney city and spend a night at Cockatoo Island, one of the best harbors in Australia with breathtaking views. Delight in finding modern amenities at your camps and spend your time sitting around a campfire and watching a movie at the Campsite Cinema. One can simply gaze up to the night sky and admire the view of the Sydney city line and its attractions.

Location: Cockatoo Island Campground, Woolwich NSW 2110, Australia

The Convict Precinct is one of the 11 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and features incredible examples of remains of convict structures. Take a Convict Precinct guided tour and learn the history of the Penal establishments of the bygone era. Pass iconic landmarks on your tours such as the Military Quarters, central yard, the Military Guardhouse, Barracks, Solitary Cells and the sandstone Mess Hall. Delight in the mesmerizing view of the Parramatta River during your tour.

Location: Birchgrove NSW 2041, Australia

Timing: 7 am-11 pm

Checkout Industrial Precinct & Docks Precinct in Cockatoo Island where you will be able to experience some of the old industrial workshops. One of the things to do in Cockatoo Island is to learn about both the precincts dating back to 1860 and their significant historical importance in the Australian Navy. You will be able to understand the improved working standards by federations conducted on Cockatoo Island as well as get an insight into Australian Army history at both precincts.

Location: Balmain NSW 2041, Australia

Another one of the exciting activities to do in Cockatoo Island is to play the game of Corn Hole. Corn Hole is an outdoor game in which you will attempt to throw 16-ounce bean bags on a platform with a hole to score 3 points. The game needs lots of depth understanding as well as hand-eye coordination and you will be able to teach your kids how to improve these skills while playing the game.

Watching a movie at the indoor cinema in the Convict Precinct is one of the best things to do in Cockatoo Island. Relax on a bean bag and indulge in a cinematic experience with your favourite popcorn. Adults and kids can also have fun watching movies from the selection of free movies available. The Campground Cinema can accommodate up to 30 individuals.

Timings: kids movie at 7 pm, adult movie at 9:15 pm.

Location: Cockatoo Island Campground, Woolwich NSW 2110, Australia

During your visit to this picturesque island, one of the activities to do in Cockatoo island is opting for a ferry ride. Known as F8 Cockatoo services, the enjoyable ride will take you below the iron curves of the Harbour Bridge. You will also be able to watch the Sydney skyline and its attractions such as the Opera House and others.

Timings: 6:15 AM - 10:45 PM

Location: Circular Quay and Barangaroo as well as from wharves along Parramatta River

Spending an evening camping is some of the exciting things to do in Cockatoo Island, in which you will be able to enjoy an evening relaxing around the bonfire at the Campground Fire Pit. Sit around the warmth of the fire and enjoy roasted marshmallows while listening to some spooky takes of the island. Admire the sights of the Sydney Harbour and gaze up to the evening sky full of stars.

Timings: Starts at 9 pm

Location: Cockatoo Island Campground, Woolwich NSW 2110, Australia

While on your day or overnight tour, one of the activities to do in Cockatoo island will be to dine at the Marina Cafe and Bar, located along the Camber Wharf. Relax with a coffee or any other beverage at this harbour-side hangout with a country-style pub charm. Enjoy delightful dishes from the menu which also has vegan delights along with other gluten-free, dairy-free dishes on offer.

Timings: Mon to Fri: 10 am to 3 pm; Sat & Sun: 9 am to 5 pm

Location: Unnamed Road Camber Wharf, Docks Precinct Cockatoo Island Sydney, NSW 2039, Australia

One of the activities to do in Cockatoo island is to take a self-guided walking tour of the island. The island is full of historical buildings and you will love taking this walking tour into the Yesteryear histories for 1.5 to 2 hours. The island has signs and plaques all over, explaining some of the histories of the island. To enjoy your tour more, opt for an audio guide, available at the visitor’s centre, and listen to the detailed commentary. Those not very keen on history can also opt to go on a clifftop walk and enjoy the rocky side of the island with tunnel passages.