In today’s fast-paced world, it’s not always easy to escape the noise and chaos of everyday life behind, but one of the few places in the world that allows you to do that happens to be right here in NSW. Sitting around 600km off the Australian mainland, Lord Howe Island has been named the fourth-quietest island in the world in a new global ranking, ahead of some other pristine spots like St Martin’s, Isles of Scilly in England and Tioman Island in Malaysia. With visitor numbers strictly limited to just 400 at given time and much of the island enveloped in protected natural landscapes, it’s hardly difficult to see the appeal. The World Heritage-listed island offers striking blue waters,golden beaches, wild scenery and some of Australia’s finest walking trails, making it an extraordinary escape for nature lovers. Here’s how to plan a trip to Lord Howe Island.
Things to do in Lord Howe Island
Much of a trip to Lord Howe Island is best spent outdoors, with walking trails, beaches and the surrounding lagoon all within easy reach. One of the island’s most popular trails, the Malabar Hill Circuit, leads up Malabar Hill, with panoramic views stretching across the lagoon, mountains and Caribbean-blue waters. Experienced hikers can tackle the much tougher Mount Gower climb, an 8-hour guided trek to the 875-metre summit and one of Australia’s most celebrated day hikes.
Spring is the perfect time to explore the island’s picture-perfect beaches. Ned’s Beach is one of the most popular, with clear, sheltered water for swimming and snorkelling just metres from the sand. Meanwhile, Lagoon Beach stretches along the edge of the lagoon and offers another calm spot for a swim, with views across the water towards Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird. Old Settlement Beach is another sheltered option known for its resident sea turtles, while Blinky Beach offers consistent waves and lovely turquoise waters.
Located about 20 kms southeast of the island, the striking Ball’s Pyramid rises 551 metres from the Tasman Sea, making it the tallest sea stack in the world. Boat tours offer a closer look at the dramatic volcanic formation, and experienced divers can even explore the surrounding waters. Lord Howe Island is also home to the world’s southernmost coral reef, with more than 90 coral species and over 500 species of fish found in the waters. Much of the reef is accessible directly from shore, so snorkelling is a major highlight if you’re visiting.
Where to eat and stay
Despite its small size, Lord Howe Island has a stellar selection of places to eat. The Anchorage is a reliable all-day option just minutes from Lagoon Beach, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, while Coral Cafe at the island’s museum is handy for good coffee and a casual daytime meal. For dinner, Driftwood offers Asian-style cuisine, and you can also stop by The Crooked Post for delicious cocktails and live music overlooking the water.
Accommodation ranges from self-contained apartments and guesthouses to high-end retreats. Pinetrees Lodge is perched by the water and is particularly well known for its dining, while Arajilla Retreat is tucked among the palms near Old Settlement Beach. You can also spoil yourself at Capella Lodge, with incredible ocean and mountain scenery to boot. With only 400 visitor beds available, booking accommodation well in advance your flights is strongly recommended.
Getting there
Lord Howe Island is less than a 2-hour flight from Sydney, with direct services operating throughout the year. Flights are also available from Port Macquarie, Newcastle and the Gold Coast. Once you arrive, the island is only around 11 kilometres long, and cycling is one of the easiest ways to get between beaches, walking trails and restaurants. Bikes and a limited number of rental cars are available to hire. Plan your travels on Qantas.
