Shark Island at a glance
Shark Island, also known by its Aboriginal name Boowambillee, is a small island in the middle of Sydney Harbour, about 1km from Rose Bay. It is part of Sydney Harbour National Park and is a peaceful picnic spot with views of the harbour all around. You can only reach it by boat.
Book online: Hop On Hop Off Ferry: 1-Day Pass · Harbour Explorer 2-Day Pass and Taronga Zoo · Whale Watching
Why visit Shark Island
- A quiet island picnic right in the middle of the harbour.
- Views of the city skyline and harbour from the island.
- A different way to see Sydney, away from the busy foreshore.
Before you go
- Landing fee: NSW National Parks charges a landing fee to visit Shark Island ($7 per person when we checked in November 2026; children 0 to 4 free). Captain Cook Cruises says its return Shark Island ferry fare includes the fee. If you arrive on a hop-on hop-off pass, ask the operator whether the fee is included before you travel.
- Closed over New Year: Captain Cook Cruises lists Shark Island as closed from 30 December 2026 to 2 January 2027, so plan your visit for another day.
- Bring what you need: there are no barbecues, so pack food, water, a hat and sunscreen.
- Take your rubbish home: bins are not provided.
- Access: NSW National Parks lists the island as having no wheelchair access.
- Weather: the national park can close in poor weather. Check current alerts on the NSW National Parks website before you go.
Getting to Shark Island
Shark Island is reached by ferry or private boat only (private boats can drop off and pick up but cannot moor there). It is listed as a stop on the Harbour Explorer 2-Day Pass and Taronga Zoo – check the timetable for when boats call at the island.
Which option suits you?
- “We want a picnic somewhere different.” Pack lunch and hop off at Shark Island on a harbour pass.
- “We want the zoo and the harbour.” Harbour Explorer 2-Day Pass and Taronga Zoo.
- “We only have one day.” Hop On Hop Off Ferry: 1-Day Pass – check which stops it includes.
FAQs
Do I have to pay to visit Shark Island?
Yes, a national park landing fee applies to every visitor. Some ferry fares include it, so check before you pay twice.
Is there food on Shark Island?
Plan to bring your own. There are no barbecues and no bins, so take everything home with you.
How long should I spend on Shark Island?
A couple of hours is plenty for a picnic and a walk around. Plan around the ferry times so you are not left waiting.
