Cowan Creek: Exploring the heart of the Hawkesbury
Cowan Creek
A quieter world beyond Pittwater
Stretching deep into the bushland north of Pittwater, Cowan Creek is one of the most peaceful and rewarding areas to explore by boat on the Hawkesbury River. As you travel upstream, the landscape gradually changes. Suburban edges fall away, replaced by sandstone cliffs, dense eucalypt forest and long, winding stretches of calm water. The further you go, the more remote it feels — despite being surprisingly close to Sydney.
A waterway shaped by nature
Cowan Creek winds its way through Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park, creating a corridor of protected bushland that feels largely untouched.
From the water, you’ll see steep forested slopes, rocky outcrops and quiet inlets where the only sounds are birdsong and water lapping against the hull. The creek’s natural curves and sheltered layout help keep conditions calm, making it ideal for relaxed cruising and swimming stops.
Bays, inlets and hidden corners
One of the pleasures of Cowan Creek is the number of small bays and coves that invite you to slow down and explore.
Well-known spots like Jerusalem Bay and America Bay are popular for their calm conditions and scenic surroundings, while smaller inlets reward those who take their time and follow the bends of the creek. Each stretch feels slightly different — some open and sunlit, others narrow and shaded — giving Cowan Creek a sense of discovery that keeps people coming back.
Swimming, drifting and taking it easy
Cowan Creek isn’t about rushing from place to place. It’s about settling into a rhythm.
Many visitors spend their time:
Swimming straight from the boat
Floating quietly in sheltered coves
Enjoying lunch onboard with a bushland backdrop
Letting the day unfold without a fixed plan
The calm water and natural shelter make it especially appealing for families and first-time boaters.
A favourite for overnight stays
For those staying overnight, Cowan Creek offers a sense of stillness that’s hard to match.
Evenings are often peaceful, with reflections of trees and rock faces shimmering across the water as the light fades. Mornings arrive gently, with mist sometimes rising from the surface and birds becoming active along the shoreline. It’s an experience that feels far removed from city life, even though you’re never truly far away.
Wildlife along the water’s edge
Because Cowan Creek is surrounded by national park, wildlife sightings are common.
From the boat, you may see:
Sea eagles and osprey overhead
Herons and kingfishers along the shoreline
Fish moving beneath the surface
The occasional ray gliding past in clear water
These encounters tend to happen quietly and unexpectedly — another reason Cowan Creek rewards a slower pace.
Who Cowan Creek suits best
Cowan Creek is ideal for:
Boaters wanting a peaceful, nature-filled experience
Families looking for calm water and swimming spots
Overnight charters seeking quiet evenings
First-time boaters building confidence
It’s a place that feels welcoming, forgiving and deeply calming.
Explore further
From Cowan Creek, you might also enjoy:
Refuge Bay & America Bay — calm Hawkesbury favourites
Best Overnight Bays — planning a longer stay
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park by Water — wildlife and bushland
