At the time of European contact, Bare Island was associated with the Goorawal and Gweagal Aboriginal groups and was described by Captain Cook as a “small bare island”. Since then, the island has had a diverse history, serving as a late 19th-century coastal defence site, a veterans' home, and even served as a backdrop for major international film productions.

Join your National Parks and Wildlife Service Discovery Ranger at the top of the path to Bare Island. From there, you’ll cross the iconic footbridge and immerse yourself in the stories and significance of this nationally important site. 

Some exertion will be required for this activity. You will be walking distances, climbing stairs and walking on slippery and uneven surfaces.

Meet at the top of the path to Bare Island. Please allow time for parking and to find the group. Maximum 20 people per tour.

Conditions of booking

Suitable for children 6 years and above
Children under 16 years must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian
All participants need to pay (including parents or adult guardians accompanying children).

Photographs, videos and voice recordings

Randwick City Council staff may on occasion take recordings of participants during activities (including photographs, videos and voice recordings) that could be used for the following purposes:

educational or community information purpose
Council displays and promotions of community education events
to complement the promotion of Randwick's Marine and Coastal Program.

If you DO NOT wish for the participant’s recording to be used according to these conditions, please indicate this during the booking process.

Cancellation conditions

This activity may be cancelled due to insufficient bookings or poor weather. Participants will be advised in the event the activity changes or cancellation occurs. All care has been made in the preparation of the January 2026 Marine and Coastal Discovery Program, but some changes may occur due to circumstances beyond the control of Randwick City Council. Refunds will be provided for paid activities up to 48 hours prior to the activity start and in the event of cancellation by Randwick City Council.

This program is a Sustaining Our City initiative and is funded from Randwick City’s Environmental Levy.

Randwick City Council acknowledges the Bidjigal and Gadigal Peoples who have traditionally occupied the Sydney coast for thousands of years, the Traditional Custodians of the land. We celebrate their ongoing connection to the land and waters of the coastal area and their contribution to the life and identity of Randwick City. We acknowledge and pay respect to Elders past and present.