Bare Island Shore Access Closes Through Approximately Late 2027

New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service has closed the Bare Island precinct in Kamay Botany Bay National Park from August 24, 2026, with reopening expected approximately in late 2027. The closure allows a major restoration of the 139-year-old timber bridge connecting the island with the La Perouse headland.

For divers, the most important detail is that the closure includes the access road, bridge and rock shelf as well as Bare Island and its fort. Fencing and active construction remove the familiar shore approach used for dives around the island. NPWS also warns that water access beneath the bridge may be temporarily restricted during the work.

The project will strengthen the bridge, replace timber piles, worn decking and handrails, and install a modern balustrade. The agency expects construction to continue through late July 2027, although the public-facing reopening estimate remains late 2027 and may change with coastal construction conditions.

This is a precinct and shore-access closure, not a published blanket prohibition on every part of the surrounding bay. Even so, divers should not use the closed road or rock shelf, cross construction barriers or assume that a boat approach makes an area beneath active work safe or lawful.

Before planning any nearby dive, consult the current Kamay Botany Bay National Park alerts and obey on-site marine and construction controls. Operators should also verify whether temporary water restrictions or navigation notices apply on the intended date.

Bare Island’s popularity makes the long closure a significant change for Sydney-area training and recreational diving. Divers should choose established alternative entry points and sites whose access is open, rather than improvising an entry near construction activity.