Marine Biological Station Open Day

Marine Biological Station Open Day (22 Feb)

Don’t miss out: The former Marine Biological Station at Camp Cove in Watsons Bay is opening its doors to visitors for the first time in more than 7 years!

Running on Saturday 22 February, the Marine Biological Station Open Day is a rare opportunity to explore this significant sandstone cottage. Inscribed on the Commonwealth Heritage List in 2004, the former Marine Biological Station is notable for being the first facility of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere as well as one of Watson Bay’s initial buildings. 

The heritage-listed research station dates to 1881 and, like the first five stands at the Sydney Cricket Ground and Katoomba’s Carrington Hotel, it was designed by prominent architect John Kirkpatrick. Originally, it served as a place for prominent Russian scientist, Nikolai Nikoleavich Miklouho-Maclay, to study local marine life. It was later acquired by the Australian Army to house officers and is now a private residence.

This is a FREE event; however, spots are extremely limited so we require people to register for tickets. Further, entry is capped at 30 minutes per person. Tickets available for 4 timeslots (details below). 

Hot tip: Make the most of summer! After you’ve explored the station, take a dip at nearby Camp Cove Beach. Plan your trip here

Quick overview

• Cost: Free for registered ticketholders. 


• Day and time: Saturday 22nd February at 11am, 11:45am, 12:30pm AND 1:15pm.


• Meeting point: Please meet outside the front door on the street front.

Important information 

• Weather conditions: The open day will proceed regardless of weather conditions except in the event of dangerous weather. Participants will be notified via email if the event is cancelled.


• Accessibility: Due to its heritage nature, the Marine Biological Station is not accessible to wheelchairs, mobility aids or prams. Visitors will be required to navigate short flights of steps throughout the building and navigate over uneven surfaces. No toilets are available onsite with the closest being the public toilets at Green Point Reserve (approx. 55m from the site).  


• Visitor guidelines: No photography or videography is allowed inside building. Visitors will be provided with shoe coverings to protect the heritage value of the building.

Content and Safety

• First Nations peoples: Our First Nations community are advised that this open day may contain stories (and images and/or visuals) of deceased persons.


• Safety: All visitors must comply with the safety directives issued by guides, rangers and security staff.


• Age restriction: People under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What to bring

• Suitable flat walking shoes and wet weather clothing (if needed).

Getting here

• Parking is extremely limited and visitors are strongly encouraged to take public transport. 


• For information about getting here, including by public transport, see: Visit Marine Biological Station.