DISCOVERING PRIVATE ISLAND RETREATS

The Islands of Sydney: Private Luxury Escapes For Your Next Event

Explore the best islands of sydney

Most people think of Sydney in terms of its famous harbors, upscale waterfront locations and large beaches. If what you’re after is a setting that’s more private, unique and more personal - you should turn to the water.

Sydney Harbour contains some lovely and often overlooked islands of Sydney. These private spots provide an unbeatable mix of beautiful nature, complete privacy and high status - making them ideal for exclusive gatherings, special celebrations or business meetings.

If you’re looking for the best island of Sydney for your event and how to take it from beautiful to unforgettable, here’s your guide.

Why Choose an Island in Sydney for Your Event?

There’s something special about being on an island with others. It’s not far from the city, but still feels away from it all and it shows your style and purpose.

Hosting an event on an island in Sydney delivers:

  • Exclusive privacy: Limited access means your event is truly yours.

  • Iconic backdrops: Harbour views, sunsets, and city skyline magic.

  • Naturally stunning venues: Lush greenery, heritage buildings, sandy shorelines.

  • A sense of adventure: From the moment guests board a private vessel, they’re immersed.

If Orraia is the one curating your stay, you can expect an easy-flowing luxury that appears through special activities, fine meals and excellent service - all made for you.

The Best Islands in Sydney for Private Luxury Events

Let’s explore the top contenders when it comes to choosing the perfect island of Sydney for your private affair.

1. Clark Island

Clark Island, found next to Darling Point, is surrounded by the beautiful harbour waters. You can admire the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge from every angle here, so it’s perfect for fancy weddings, special product displays or corporate parties.

Capacity: Up to 200 guests

Vibe: Upscale garden party meets waterfront glamour

Best for: Exclusive dining events, outdoor weddings, cocktail receptions

2. Shark Island

Don’t be fooled by the name - Shark Island is a peaceful paradise with 360-degree harbour views. Its flat grassy expanse is perfect for structured events or custom event builds.

Capacity: Up to 500 guests

Vibe: Versatile, expansive, panoramic

Best for: Corporate retreats, brand activations, milestone birthdays

3. Goat Island

Steeped in colonial history, Goat Island sits at the junction of the Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers and offers a unique blend of heritage and raw beauty.

Capacity: Varies (by section)

Vibe: Rustic elegance, dramatic, cinematic

Best for: Film shoots, creative launches, exclusive dinner parties

4. Rodd Island

Tucked in Iron Cove, Rodd Island is more intimate and perfect for small groups seeking a relaxed yet scenic escape.

Capacity: Up to 100 guests

Vibe: Coastal cottage charm meets garden serenity

Best for: Micro-weddings, vow renewals, wellness workshops

5. Cockatoo Island

For a bold, industrial-chic vibe, Cockatoo Island is an unexpected and creative choice. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it merges raw architecture with large-scale possibilities.

Capacity: 500+ guests

Vibe: Urban meets waterfront, edgy and expansive

Best for: Music events, film premieres, art festivals

Choosing the Right Island Based on Your Event Type

Not all islands offer the same vibe - and choosing the right one can make or break your event. A micro-wedding calls for intimacy and charm, while a corporate activation needs infrastructure and space. Here’s how to match your event to the perfect island in Sydney…

  • Event Type:Micro-wedding

  • Ideal Island:Rodd Island

  • Why It Works:Quiet, romantic, stunning views

  • Event Type:Product launch

  • Ideal Island:Shark or Clark

  • Why It Works:Flexible space + iconic backdrop

  • Event Type:Brand experience

  • Ideal Island:Cockatoo Island

  • Why It Works:Bold, industrial canvas

  • Event Type:Wellness retreat

  • Ideal Island:Rodd or Clark

  • Why It Works:Natural serenity, privacy

  • Event Type:Milestone party

  • Ideal Island:Shark Island

  • Why It Works:Capacity + panoramic views

Orraia helps match the mood and magic of each island with your event goals.

What Makes Orraia the Perfect Partner for Island Events?

Planning an event on a private island sounds dreamy - but the logistics? Not so much. From permits and ferry coordination to event design and hospitality, Orraia handles it all with seamless precision.

Here’s what you can expect when you partner with Orraia:

1. End-to-End Planning

From island selection and permit approval to weather contingencies and transport - Orraia handles every detail.

2. Tailored Culinary Experiences

Whether it’s a luxury grazing table or a multi-course degustation, our chefs tailor every menu to your tastes and dietary preferences.

3. Atmosphere & Ambience

Custom lighting, live entertainment, floral design, and styled furniture setups ensure the space feels like you - not just a venue.

4. Premium Transport & Guest Services

Private water transfers, guest concierge service, and VIP welcome kits deliver a premium from-first-step experience.

Types of Events We Curate on the Islands of Sydney

Orraia specializes in events that demand elegance, creativity, and exclusivity. Our island events include:

  • Luxury weddings & elopements

  • Executive retreats & incentive travel

  • Product launches & brand activations

  • Private birthdays & milestone celebrations

  • Wellness & creative experiences

Each event is designed from scratch - no templates, no recycled themes. Just your vision, elevated.

Client Story: A Sunset Celebration on Clark Island

When a Sydney couple wanted a sunset wedding with no distractions and a timeless backdrop, Orraia delivered a private celebration on Clark Island with:

  • A bespoke sailcloth marquee

  • String quartet performance at golden hour

  • Custom cocktails crafted with native botanicals

  • An all-white floral installation echoing the sandstone shoreline

  • Gourmet canapés and long-table dining under fairy lights

Guests arrived via luxury catamaran and departed beneath the stars - an evening that felt like a Mediterranean escape, without leaving Sydney.

Planning Your Island Escape: What You Need to Know

Thinking about your own luxury island event? Here are key tips:

  • Start early – Popular dates and island permits go fast.

  • Know your vision – Are you after a relaxed day picnic or an elegant night soirée?

  • Trust your planner – Logistics on the water require experience and a trusted team.

  • Think of transport – Not all guests may arrive by boat comfortably; consider private charters or group vessels.

  • Prepare for weather – Although Orraia provides elegant marquees and flexible solutions for sudden weather changes, be prepared for sudden twists in climatic conditions.

Ready to Discover Your Perfect Island of Sydney?

Whether you’re planning a milestone event, an unforgettable wedding, or a brand experience that leaves an impression, there’s an island of Sydney that’s perfect for it.

And with Orraia guiding the vision, your event becomes more than beautiful - it becomes unforgettable.

Enquire Now →