Imagine a vacation without traffic jams, fines or road rage. A quaint, forested island on the outskirts of Sydney offers all that and more. Dangar Island on the Hawkesbury River is only accessible by water and provides an idyllic short escape from the whirling engines and noise of the city. Home to just around 250 people, this picturesque island is also the only suburb in Sydney without cars and offers uninhibited views of the Hawkesbury River. Read all about this underrated hidden gem in Sydney.
Dangar Island, Sydney
This tiny sanctuary has an open grassy parkland, lovely beaches and sweeping water views. It’s also home to a variety of bird species and over 90 plant species making it ideal for birdwatchers. Presently, it’s also the only known location of the endangered ecological community known as the Blackbutt-Rough-barked Apple Forest.
It’s especially pretty during jacaranda season with lovely purple trees adorning the shoreline. Visitors will find a quaint cafe situated right by the water called Dangar Island Depot serving coffee and organic teas and a locally sourced and sustainable menu.
The best way to spend your time on the island is to walk around and explore the 4km leafy and tropical loop for yourself. On the way, you’ll find a community hall, Dangar Island Bowling Club and Bradleys Beach which is located on the south side of the island. The beach also happens to be the site of the first European landfall in Hornsby Shire. Several photogenic cottages line the beach and it’s a great spot to stop for a swim.
The Dangar Island walk will also take you to Kiparra Park which is home to aboriginal artifacts.
How to get there
The only way to get to Dangar Island is by boat. Regular ferry services run between Brooklyn, Wobby and Dangar all week. Hawkesbury River Station is the nearest train station to Dangar Island Ferry in Sydney. Although there aren’t any big hotels in the area, if you’re looking to stay over, you can choose a holiday rental on Airbnb.
Get more information about the island here.