Central Coast pearl farm achieves ECO Certification

On the sparkling waters of the Lower Hawkesbury River, Broken Bay Pearl Farm has long offered one of the Central Coast’s most distinctive visitor experiences. Now, that experience has been recognised on a national stage, along with its parent company Pearls of Australia achieving ECO Certification.

As the only company in Australia to culture both native pearl shell species, from Western Australia to New South Wales, this milestone highlights a deep commitment to sustainability, education and environmental stewardship.

At Broken Bay Pearl Farm, visitors are invited to step behind the scenes of sustainable pearl and oyster farming, cruising the Hawkesbury River, exploring oyster leases, and discovering the intricate process of cultivating the rare Australian Akoya pearl.

Through immersive, guided experiences, visitors gain a deeper understanding of marine ecosystems, responsible ocean practices, and the delicate balance required to sustain both industry and nature. It’s official, they’re certified and in the global Green Travel Guide!

ECO Certification assesses businesses, through third party auditing, against Ecotourism Australia’s internationally recognised ecotourism standard across the four pillars of sustainability: environmental, cultural, and socio-economic impact and sustainable business operations. This recognition by Ecotourism Australia underscores Broken Bay Pearl Farm’s commitment to globally recognised best-practice standards and highlights their leadership in eco and sustainable tourism.

From educating visitors about Australian pearls and marine environments, to supporting citizen science programs and maintaining responsible aquaculture practices, Broken Bay Pearl Farm is helping to lead best practice in sustainable tourism.

Committing to being an ECO Certified business is an ongoing journey and for Broken Bay Pearl Farm, who continue to offer experiences that connect visitors to nature while supporting the long-term health of local ecosystems.

Find out what it takes to pursue the ECO Certification journey.

Shell to Showroom
Embark on an immersive educational cruise along the Lower Hawkesbury River to visit oyster leases where you’ll learn about the art of farming pearl and rock oysters, showcasing the renowned Australian Akoya pearl and discover the environmental benefits oysters provide. Once back on land, you’ll step into their pearl grading room to understand what makes Australian pearls exceptionally rare and valuable.

Farm to Plate
Indulge in a refined farm‑to‑plate experience, tasting Sydney Rock Oyster and Akoya pearl oysters while learning the delicate art of shucking and savouring each shell at its purest. You’ll glide across the pristine waters of the lower Hawkesbury River to our saltwater paddocks, where sustainable oyster farming, shimmering landscapes and a deep connection to place come together in effortless coastal luxury.

Oyster & Pearl lovers
Immerse yourself in an exclusive half‑day journey where expert guides reveal the artistry of NSW’s only pearl farm, the rare beauty of the Akoya pearl and a pioneering family legacy shaped by care for place. Cruise the pristine lower Hawkesbury River to oyster leases and saltwater paddocks, step inside the pearl grading room, and conclude with a guided oyster tasting that celebrates sustainable farming, exceptional quality and the quiet luxury of nature‑led discovery.

Each experience is guided by knowledgeable hosts who bring the environment to life, offering insights into the interconnected relationship between clean waterways, thriving oyster populations and premium pearl production.

Book your sustainable pearl and oyster farm experience now, direct with the operator.

There’s a long list of sustainability initiatives taking place every day at Broken Bay Pearl Farm, here’s some of the highlights that extend beyond the farm gate.

Cultivating the Blue Economy, reducing carbon emissions
Through sustainable, regenerative aquaculture, Broken Bay Pearl Farm’s oyster and pearl farming practices support local livelihoods while actively restoring the health of marine ecosystems. As natural filter feeders, oysters improve water quality, protect vital blue‑carbon habitats such as mangroves, seagrass and saltmarsh, and play a powerful role in sequestering carbon.

Collaboration to reduce waste
With their love and passion for marine conservation, Broken Bay Pearl Farm (and their parent company Pearl’s of Australia) develop partnerships with leading environmental organisations such as Take 3 for the Sea. In collaboration with Take 3 for the Sea, they developed a jewellery collection where 20% of the proceeds go directly to support Take 3’s marine conservation programs.

Aquaculture education, one visitor at a time
Broken Bay Pearl Farm ensures that each visitor is educated about marine ecosystems, water quality and responsible ocean practices, ensuring each experience is reinforcing their commitment to protecting our waterways.

Broken Bay Pearl Farm are the 14th successful Central Coast business to achieve their ECO Certification through Ecotourism Australia and join Destination Central Coast’s award-winning ECO Advocate cohort. 

Huge congratulations to Broken Bay Pearl Farm for promoting sustainable practices on the Central Coast of New South Wales! We expect to hear more about their contribution to respectful, nature-based experiences in future as their business continues to lead the way for sustainable aquaculture on the Central Coast.

Get to know more about Broken Bay Pearl Farm by visiting their dedicated Love Central Coast page and finding out about their latest experiences via their website.

Discover more about ecotourism on the Central Coast by wandering over to explore our ECO Destination guide.