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Lord Howe Island is a small Australian island in the Tasman Sea, about 600 kilometres from the east coast of Australia. It is known for its unique wildlife, clear waters, and diverse landscapes. The island is home to rare plants and birds found nowhere else. It also has coral reefs, and mountains, and there are multiple things to do on this island , where you can explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities. Walking trails, snorkelling spots, and birdwatching areas make it a great place for adventure.
Location
Photo: Inas66 / Wikimedia Commons
It is about 600 km east of the Australian mainland, in the Tasman Sea. The island belongs to New South Wales and spans just 11 km in length. Despite its small size, it has an impressive landscape with mountains, forests, and coral reefs. Due to its isolated location, Lord Howe Island wildlife is unique, with several species found nowhere else in the world.
How To Reach Lord Howe Island
Photo: Inas66 / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The most convenient way to reach Lord Howe Island Airport is by flight. QantasLink operates regular direct flights from Sydney and Brisbane. The flight takes around 2 hours, offering a scenic aerial view of the island.
By Bus: There are no direct bus routes to the island. Travellers can take a bus to Sydney or Brisbane airports and board a flight to Lord Howe Island Airport.
By Rail: Rail travel is not an option to reach the island directly. However, you can take a train to Sydney or Brisbane and then fly to Lord Howe Island.
Places To Visit In And Around Lord Howe Island
Explore the best places to visit in and around Lord Howe Island for a memorable experience:
1. Mount Gower
Photo: EmGer7 / Wikimedia Commons
Mount Gower stands at 875 metres and is the highest point on Lord Howe Island. This mountain is famous for its guided hike, which takes around eight hours to complete. The trail goes through forests filled with rare plants like moss-covered trees and orchids. The mountain is home to unique birds, such as the Lord Howe Woodhen, which was once endangered. Hikers also pass through cloud forests at the top, with plants growing only in high-altitude areas.
Entry Fee: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 day
2. Ned’s Beach
Photo: Granitethighs / Wikimedia Commons
Ned’s Beach is well known for its fish-feeding experience. Visitors can walk into the water and feed different species of fish, including mullet, kingfish, and wrasse. Snorkelling is another popular activity, with clear waters revealing corals, sea turtles, and tropical fish. During low tide, rock pools appear, where small marine creatures like crabs and sea stars can be spotted.
Entry Fee: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 hours
3. Lord Howe Island Marine Park
Photo: Binte Zubair / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Lord Howe Island Marine Park protects one of the most diverse marine ecosystems in Australia. It is home to over 500 species of fish and nearly 90 species of coral. The park is part of the world’s southernmost coral reef, which means visitors can see tropical and temperate marine life in the same area. Snorkelling and scuba diving are the best ways to explore the underwater world, with locations like Erscott’s Hole offering vibrant corals and colourful fish.
Timings: Varies by tour operator
Entry Fee: AUD 50 (₹ 2,750) for guided snorkelling tours
Ideal Trip Duration: Half a day
4. Old Gulch
Photo: berkanenclk01 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Old Gulch is a rocky beach with natural rock pools that form at low tide. These pools contain small fish, crabs, and sea urchins, making it a good place for exploring marine life up close. The area is surrounded by volcanic rock formations that are millions of years old. Scientists believe these rocks were formed by volcanic eruptions that created Lord Howe Island.
Entry Fee: N/A
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
5. Ball’s Pyramid
Photo: PotMart186 / Wikimedia Commons
Ball’s Pyramid is a 551-metre-high sea stack, making it the tallest of its kind in the world. It was discovered in 1788 and is believed to be a remnant of an ancient volcano that erupted over seven million years ago. The area around Ball’s Pyramid is a diving hotspot where divers can see sharks, large schools of fish, and rare marine species. This sea stack is also home to the world’s rarest insect, the Lord Howe Island stick insect, which was once considered extinct.
Timings: Varies by boat tour
Entry Fee: AUD 80 (₹ 4,400) for a boat tour
Ideal Trip Duration: Half a day
Where To Stay
Photo: peterweideman / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Accommodation on Lord Howe Island ranges from budget-friendly lodges to luxury resorts. Capella Lodge is a premium choice with ocean views, while Pinetrees Lodge offers a more affordable stay with homely comfort. With limited accommodations, it’s best to book in advance. The island has a strict visitor cap, so availability may be limited during peak seasons.
Where To Eat
Photo: j_lloa / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The island has a few restaurants serving fresh seafood and local produce. Beach House On The Moon offers delicious seafood, while Coral Café is popular for coffee and quick bites. Visitors can also enjoy meals at their lodges, as many accommodations include meal plans. Grocery stores provide basic supplies for self-catering.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: EmGer7 / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Lord Howe Island is between September and May when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The summer months (December to February) are warm and great for swimming and snorkelling. March to May offers mild temperatures, making it perfect for hiking. The winter season (June to August) sees fewer visitors but remains a good time for birdwatching and enjoying the island’s peaceful atmosphere.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Inas66 / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip to Lord Howe Island, Australia can be expensive due to its exclusivity. A week-long stay may cost around AUD 3,500 (₹ 1,92,500) per person, covering flights, accommodation, meals, and activities. Luxury travellers can expect to spend more, while budget travellers can save by choosing self-catering options and N/A activities like hiking.
Tips Tor Travellers
- Book flights and accommodation well in advance due to the visitor cap.
- Carry a refillable water bottle, as drinking water is available at lodges.
- Mobile network coverage is limited; Wi-Fi is available at select lodges.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
- Cycling is the best way to get around the island, as cars are limited.
- Respect wildlife and avoid disturbing birds and marine animals.
Lord Howe Island is a remarkable destination offering adventure, wildlife, and the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities. With its mountains, coral reefs, and unique animals, the island offers a variety of experiences. Whether you are exploring the Island wildlife, hiking Mount Gower, or snorkelling in the marine park, every moment here is unforgettable. Start planning your trip now with TripXL for a hassle-free experience!
Cover Photo: Fanny Schertzer / Wikimedia Commons
