Palm Island

A sliver of sand and scrub fringed by the sparkling Brisbane Water, Palm Island is a low-key escape just off the Central Coast. Accessible only by boat, this tiny island feels a world away from the mainland bustle, offering quiet beaches, bushwalking trails, and uninterrupted views across the water to the surrounding national parks. It’s the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon swimming, reading in the shade, or simply watching the seabirds wheel overhead.

Highlights & What to See

• Palm Island Beach – A protected sandy beach perfect for a calm swim or a picnic; the water is usually glassy and clear.
• Brisbane Water National Park views – From the island’s northern end, you’ll look straight across to the park’s escarpments and eucalypt forests.
• Walking trails – A short track loops the island, passing through coastal scrub and offering glimpses of pelicans and cormorants.
• Kayaking and paddleboarding – The sheltered waters around the island are ideal for exploring by kayak, with several hire options in nearby Gosford.
• Birdwatching – Keep an eye out for white-bellied sea eagles, ospreys, and a variety of shorebirds.

Suggested Time to Spend

Half a day is ample to enjoy Palm Island’s simple pleasures – arrive on a morning water taxi, swim and stroll, then head back for lunch. If you’re after a truly lazy day, pack a picnic and stay until the afternoon ferry. The island is small, so you won’t need more than a few hours to soak it all in.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Gosford – The main hub of the Central Coast, with a waterfront, cafes, and the Gosford Regional Gallery.
• Brisbane Water National Park – Offers excellent bushwalking, Aboriginal rock engravings, and lookouts like the Warrah Lookout.
• Bouddi National Park – A coastal gem with dramatic cliffs, hidden beaches, and the Bouddi Coastal Walk.
• Ettalong Beach – A relaxed seaside village with a popular Sunday market and a ferry to Palm Island.
• Killcare – A picturesque hamlet with a patrolled beach, a surf club, and excellent fish and chips.

Please check official sources for current details.