Can we bring food and drinks?

Yes, groups can bring picnics and enjoy lunch on-site in designated areas.

Is the site accessible for all ages?

Yes, the tours are designed to be accessible, with pathways suitable for most mobility levels.

Are there any age restrictions?

Activities are suitable for school-age children; please check specific availability for younger or older groups.

Do we need to book in advance?

Yes, prior booking is recommended to secure your preferred tour options.

Are the tours guided?

All tours are guided by knowledgeable staff to enhance the learning experience.

Is there parking available?

Yes, ample parking is available on-site for visitors.

Outdoor Education at Quarantine Station: School Holiday Tours | Guided Tour | History Tour

Located in the historic Q Station, just outside Sydney, this site offers an engaging outdoor classroom that combines Australia’s rich heritage with natural beauty. Established in the early 20th century as a quarantine facility, Q Station is now a hub for outdoor education, drawing school groups eager to connect with history and ecology in an immersive setting. The site features preserved heritage buildings, scenic waterfront views, and lush native bushland, making it a perfect backdrop for hands-on learning.

The guided tours are tailored to engage young minds with interactive experiences. The history tour walks students through wartime quarantine processes and colonial-era structures, providing a vivid glimpse into Australia’s past. Environmental exploration takes students into the surrounding native bushland, emphasizing local flora and fauna, and fostering appreciation for conservation efforts. The scavenger hunt adds an element of fun, encouraging teamwork as they search for clues amidst the natural and historic surroundings.

Lunchtime offers a scenic respite, with spaces designed for groups to relax and reflect amidst stunning coastal scenery. What makes Q Station unique is its blend of heritage and ecology—students surface stories of resilience and preservation, all while experiencing Northern Beaches' rugged shoreline and native wildlife. The site fosters a sense of curiosity and respect for Australia’s history and environment, making it a top choice for schools seeking an outdoor adventure intertwined with learning.

This experience is ideal for school groups looking for a memorable, educational outdoor activity that combines history, nature, and fun. It’s a standout destination in the Northern Beaches area, offering rich outdoor learning opportunities for different age groups in a safe, accessible environment.

About Quarantine Station

Quarantine Station in Manly, New South Wales preserves Australia’s quarantine history while offering a wide range of public programs and private experiences. Located on North Head overlooking Sydney Harbour, Quarantine Station operates guided history tours, family activities, community events and specialist paranormal investigations that explore the site’s layered past.

Visitors can join curated options such as the Inscription Trail, where over 1,500 carved and painted messages reveal personal stories, or themed guided walks like the Sydney Harbour History Talk and Tour and Manly Life By The Sea. Family-friendly experiences include scavenger hunts, Critter Quest, school holiday excursions and interactive kids tours that blend learning with outdoor play.

Quarantine Station also hosts seasonal and special events: Sunset Samba with Brazilian music and barbecue, Sunset Sessions, Yoga and Brunch by the Sea, Melbourne Cup and Christmas Lunch at the Boilerhouse Kitchen & Bar. Conservation and community programs include free Beach Clean Up events and Bush Care activities, with supplies and complimentary refreshments provided for volunteers.

History-focused offerings range from concise daytime tours to extended options such as the Disease & Burial History Tour, while evening experiences include family ghost walks, Ghostly Encounters, Extreme Ghost Hunt and private paranormal investigations for groups. Quarantine Station supports educational bookings for OOSH and vacation care providers with tailored itineraries.

Interpretation is delivered by experienced guides and structured programs on site. Quarantine Station’s combination of documented historical interpretation, public events and community initiatives makes it a reliable destination for visitors seeking heritage, family-friendly activities and immersive experiences in Manly.