Download the Cockatoo Island map

Managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, Cockatoo Island is a World-Heritage-listed island in the middle of Sydney Harbour.

Retaining all its character from decades of human endeavour by convicts and shipbuilders alike, Cockatoo Island is open to the public daily, offering major events, exhibitions, tours, venue hire, accommodation including the world’s first urban waterfront campground, a waterfront bar (The Island Bar) and licensed kiosk (The Canteen).

A major venue of the Biennale of Sydney since 2008, Cockatoo Island hosts the 18th Biennale of Sydney across both Upper and Lower Island. Spend a few hours or the day exploring the exhibition at this wonderful location. Just 20 minutes by ferry from Circular Quay.

Cockatoo Island is now an emerging cultural destination in Sydney. In the past decade, the Harbour Trust has developed programs and events which enrich the city with art exhibitions, major music events and a film festival.

Cockatoo Island is one of the magnificent sites managed by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, a self funding agency responsible for the vision planning and management of Sydney Harbour sites including: Cockatoo Island and Snapper Island in Sydney Harbour, Woolwich Dock and Parklands, HMAS Platypus in Neutral Bay, Headland Park and Chowder Bay in Mosman, North Head Sanctuary in Manly, Marine Biological Station in Watsons Bay and Macquarie Lightstation in Vaucluse.

Food and beverage options
Allow time for a picnic, stay overnight or visit one of Cockatoo Island’s exciting pop-up eateries open during the 18th Biennale. Enjoy wok-fried noodles at the Asahi Super Dry Noodle Bar; savour slow-cooked winter fare at the Cottage Lawn; graze on share plates at the Yering Station Wine Bar, historic Biloela House; or grab a great coffee and quick bite from the Docks and Gateway Cafes.

More information about the food and beverage options, and opening times, are available here.

Getting There
In 2012, with thanks to The Balnaves Foundation, you can access Cockatoo Island by free ferry from Wharf 6, Circular Quay (outside MCA) and Pier 2/3. Get more information on how to plan your visit here.

Sydney Ferries currently operates services to Cockatoo Island via the Balmain/Woolwich service and the Parramatta River service. Ferries depart regularly from Circular Quay and inner harbour wharves.

The island is also accessible by water taxi. Water taxis can pick up from most jetties or wharves in Sydney Harbour, including Circular Quay.

Contact Information
Cockatoo Island Camping and Accommodation 02 8898 9774
Harbour Trust Offices 02 8969 2100

cockatooisland.gov.au

A note about accessibility
Cockatoo Island is a former industrial site and hazards such as uneven surfaces and hazardous voids do exist. A number of buildings are darkened and require extra vigilance and a number of buildings will not be accessible by wheelchair.

For the comfort and safety of everyone on the island, please follow the Island Etiquette:

no alcohol to be brought onto the island
no portable BBQs or lighting of fires
no smoking in buildings
do not bring animals onto the island (except guide dogs)
do not enter construction areas

getting started