Bare Island Fort

Bare Island Fort sits on Bare Island at La Perouse, connected to the mainland by a footbridge at the entrance to Botany Bay in Sydney's south-east. A fascinating historic fort built in the 1880s to defend the colony, it's a genuine piece of Sydney's military heritage — a dramatic island fortification in a beautiful coastal setting, popular with history lovers and visitors alike.

The appeal is that combination of genuine history and a striking location: the atmospheric fort, reached across its picturesque footbridge, offers a window into colonial-era defences, while the rugged coastal surrounds and bay views make it a lovely spot to explore. Its dramatic setting has even made it a filming location, and it remains a memorable, characterful destination.

With a 4.6 rating from more than 800 reviews, it's a much-loved spot. Access to the fort itself is often by guided tour on selected days, and tour times, admission and any access arrangements vary, so it's worth checking current details and booking ahead before you go — particularly if you want to tour inside the fort — while enjoying the history and coastal scenery of Bare Island at La Perouse.