Cottage Point

Cottage Point is a serene pocket of natural beauty tucked into the northern reaches of Sydney's Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. Accessible only by water or a winding road through bushland, this secluded hamlet feels a world away from the city. With its calm, tree-fringed waters and historic sandstone cottages, it's a destination for kayakers, hikers, and those seeking a quiet picnic spot with stunning Hawkesbury River views.

Highlights & What to See

• Cottage Point Inn: A charming waterfront restaurant and function venue with a deck overlooking the river — perfect for a relaxed lunch or celebratory drink. The heritage building dates back to the 1920s.
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park: Launch a kayak or paddleboard from the boat ramp and explore the intricate waterways, hidden beaches, and sandstone cliffs. The park's Aboriginal rock engravings and ancient middens add cultural depth to a paddle.
• Bobbin Head: A short drive or paddle away, this historic settlement offers a marina, picnic areas, and the start of several walking trails, including the Cowan Creek loop.
• Great North Walk: The trail passes through Cottage Point, offering a leg between Berowra and Cowan that traverses rugged bushland with dramatic river vistas. A challenging day hike for experienced walkers.
• Water-based wildlife: Keep an eye out for sea eagles, pelicans, and the occasional dolphin in the deeper channels.

Suggested Time to Spend

A half-day is ample to enjoy a meal at the inn, paddle the immediate waterways, or tackle a short bushwalk. To fully immerse — combine a kayak trip with a picnic on a deserted beach — plan for a full day. Overnight stays are limited; most visitors base themselves in nearby Berowra or Brooklyn and make Cottage Point a day trip.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Berowra: Gateway to the national park with a train station, shops, and the Berowra Valley Regional Park.
• Brooklyn: A historic fishing village on the Hawkesbury River, famous for its oyster farms and the Riverboat Postman cruise.
• Milsons Passage: A tiny riverside settlement with a heritage ferry and scenic picnic spots.
• Cowan: A secluded hamlet at the end of a winding road, offering access to the Great North Walk and the Cowan Creek.
• Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Visitor Centre: Located at Bobbin Head, with exhibits on Aboriginal culture and park ecology.

Please check official sources for current details.