The World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island is home to one of the most pristine Australian landscapes. Overflowing with native plants, seabird colonies, subtropical forests and crystal-clear lagoons, it’s a perfect escape from modern civilisation.

Things to do

Lord Howe Island’s central area serves as a spot for coffee and planning your day. Pick up some snacks and supplies or have a bite to eat at one of the few cafes along the main road. Before heading out for a hike or nature walk, stop by Lord Howe Island Museum to learn about the island’s history and its rare flora and fauna.

Walking and hiking are popular activities, with trails winding up Mount Gower and hikes to Kim’s Lookout. Wander up Malabar Hill to see the iconic Balls Pyramid in the distance, a natural obelisk rising up 550 metres from the ocean.

Prefer to experience life under the surface? Take a dive trip to the Admiralty Islands or Balls Pyramid to explore underwater caves and splash about with dolphins and turtles. Several rare fish species inhabit the waters, including Galapagos whalers and Spanish dancers.

Enjoy excellent snorkelling at the coral-rich waters around Ned’s Beach, which is teeming with fish you can feed in Ned’s Beach Sanctuary Zone. You can have a barbecue on the beach and take a glass-bottom boat tour. Surfers enjoy Blinky Beach, where birders can see over 130 bird species.

Getting there

Lord Howe Island is under two hours by plane from both Sydney and Brisbane, and private boats or sailboats offer limited service from Port Macquarie. Upon arrival, you can hire a bicycle or car to get around.