Shark Island

Shark Island offers a picnic experience that's a little bit different! The island received its name because of its shape and not its wildlife. One kilometre off Rose Bay, the 1.5 hectare island has spectacular views down the harbour to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House. Shark Island is said to have resembled a shark and the shallow waters around it presented a constant danger to shipping, especially with the growth of trade in the early 19th century. Between 1880 and 1975, the island was used as an animal quarantine area, a public recreation reserve and a naval storage depot. There are picnic tables and shady trees. Explore the rocky foreshore, the hand-built grottos and the island's sandy beaches. Facilities: drinking water and toilets. Shark Island is available for picnics, wedding ceremonies and special events - hold up to 500 people.