E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens
E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens sits on President Avenue in Caringbah South, overlooking Yowie Bay. Its standout feature is a camellia collection of over 400 cultivars and species, and it is the only International Camellia Garden of Excellence in New South Wales.
Best for
About E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens
Camellia Collection at E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens
E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens holds over 400 camellia cultivars and species, donated and acquired since first plantings began in 1969. The garden is named after the late Professor EG Waterhouse, a leading world authority on camellias, and it grew partly through donations from groups and individuals. In March 2014 the International Camellia Society named the garden an International Camellia Garden of Excellence, one of only 40 such gardens worldwide. The site was known as the Matson Pleasure Grounds from the 1900s through the 1970s. Camellias are in season during autumn and winter, so the collection is on display across those months.
Playground and Duck Pond at E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens
E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens has a playground, and its official photo gallery shows it alongside the garden's duck pond. The playground gives children a place to play within the same grounds as the camellia beds, so families can split their time between play and the garden walks. The duck pond gives younger visitors a water feature to look at while the adults take in the plantings. Both features sit inside the gardens rather than in a separate reserve, which keeps the whole visit in one place.
Wedding Walk and Weddings at E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens
E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens has a Wedding Walk, which appears in its official photo gallery. Weddings can be held within the gardens with council permission, so couples need approval before they book a date. The Wedding Walk runs through the camellia plantings, and the gardens overlook Yowie Bay, which gives ceremonies and photographs a backdrop beyond the flower beds. Couples planning a ceremony should confirm current fees directly with the managing council.
Facilities at E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens
Visitor tips for E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens
- ✓Entry is free, so a visit only costs whatever you spend at the Teahouse cafe.
- ✓Walk the camellia beds first, then finish at the playground and duck pond so younger visitors have a reward at the end.
Getting to E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens
The gardens are at 104R President Avenue, Caringbah South, on the corner of President Avenue and Kareena Road. An on-site car park is available for visitors.
Open in Google Maps →Nearby Caringbah South
- 📍The Teahouse Cafe (cafe, about 100 m)
Frequently asked questions about E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens
Are dogs allowed at E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens?
No, dogs and other animals are not permitted in the gardens, even on a leash. The only exception is assistance dogs.
Does the Camellia Gardens have a playground for kids?
Yes, the gardens have a playground, shown in the official photo gallery next to the duck pond.
Are there BBQ facilities and picnic tables at E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens?
The gardens have barbecue facilities and a picnic area. The available information does not confirm whether picnic tables are provided.
What are the opening hours for E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens?
The gardens open 9:00am to 4:00pm on weekdays and 9:30am to 5:00pm on weekends and public holidays, extending to 6:00pm during daylight saving. They are closed on Good Friday, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.
When is the best time of year to see the camellias at E G Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens?
The camellias are in season during autumn and winter, which is when the collection is on display.