The mesmerizing Sydney Harbor reaches 20km inland to meet the Parramatta River and is called Port Jackson. The place is dotted with small islands that include Clark Island Goat Island and Rodd Island. It is in the northwest of Sydney CBD. All these islands are part of Sydney Harbor National Park.

Goat Island

West to the famous Sydney Harbor Bridge and near the Sydney suburb of Balmain, this largest island of Port Jackson was once home to the Sydney water police who kept an eye on escaped convicts and smugglers. Some of the finest buildings of Sydney are made with the sandstone queried by the convicts from here.

This rocky island also has an illustrious history of being a store for explosives, convict stockade, a quarry, boatyard, and a film set. A number of tours are arranged for visitors who want to explore the island. Queen’s Gunpowder Magazine and a chair carved out of stone by Charles Anderson an 18 year convict, are among the relics from the days when it was inhabited by the convicts. One can see the scribbling on the walls of the guard rooms written by guards leading a secluded life away from home. North East Wharf, Harbor Masters Lawn, Water Rats Roof, and Queens Powder Magazine are some of the favorite sites here.

In recent times this place of Sydney’s natural and cultural heritage has been host to many rock concerts. It is an experience of a life time roaming this island full of convict and maritime history.

Clark Island

Named after a marine officer, Lieutenant Ralph Clark, this island is a picnic paradise. The area is complete with drinking water, picnic tables, and has toilet facilities too. The added bonanzas are the breathtaking harbor views.

It is essential to do the bookings as the picnic groups are restricted to only 30 people per group, and a maximum number of 150 people are allowed on the island at any one given time. One can also hire Clark Island for a private experience. The central section of the island is a bush land. There is also no electricity on the island

One can enjoy swimming, Snorkeling etc at Clark Island or simply admire the enchanting views. The place is accessible by water taxies or by NPWS ferry service.

Rodd Island

Rodd Island, the smallest and lesser known of all the harbor islands, is named after Brent Samuel Rodds who had a long association with the local area and the island. Located in the center of Iron Cove off Birkenhead Point near the Sydney suburb of Rozelle, Rodd is a very small island on Paramatta River. The place has summer houses and colonial style halls to hold picnics. The island capacity is 100 people and groups of 50 people are allowed.

It is a perfect half a hectare location for picnics, day outings and formal and family functions. The place is dotted with palm trees and grassy carpets.

Looking for a day adventure? Visit these magnificent islands.