lord howe island
Discover Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island is a small, subtropical island located in the Tasman Sea, about 600 kilometers east of the Australian mainland, and roughly midway between Australia and New Zealand. It is part of the state of New South Wales, Australia. The island is renowned for its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and unique ecosystems.
Lagoon Beach (Snorkeling, Swimming, Kayaking, etc.)
Several pristine beaches, including Ned’s Beach and Lagoon Beach(above), both famous for their crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.
Facilities
In keeping with the islands protected eco status, you won’t find large resorts, bustling cities, or massive shopping malls, there is a good range of accommodations, restaurants, and cafes to suit visitors’ needs.
Go Snorkeling on the Coral Reef
You can easily snorkel from the shore and encounter giant trevally, surgeonfish, parrotfish, and even sea turtles in the shallow waters. The coral garden here is stunning, with a variety of hard and soft corals.
The fish here are accustomed to people and will often swim right up to you. Ned’s beach is a favourite for snorkeling.
Hike Mount Gower & Enjoy the View
Mount Gower (875 meters/2,871 feet), the island’s highest point, which is a popular destination for experienced hikers.
Lord Howe Island
Before European settlement, Lord Howe Island was uninhabited by humans but was known to the Kurnell people, the Indigenous Australians from the mainland. The island itself was not a permanent home for them, but they likely visited for fishing and resource gathering. The Kurnell people are believed to have traveled in canoes to the island, which they referred to as “Mutton Bird Island” because of the abundance of seabirds, especially the mutton bird (shearwater).
The island remained largely isolated from human contact until the late 18th century.
Coastal View up to Mount Gower
Hiking on Lord Howe Island is one of the best ways to explore its natural beauty, offering a variety of trails that range from easy walks to more challenging treks. The island’s unique landscapes—including mountain peaks, coastal cliffs, rainforests, and beaches—make it a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re after a short stroll with stunning views or a full-day adventure to the island’s highest peaks, there’s something for everyone.
Balls Pyramid
Ball’s Pyramid is a dramatic and striking sea stack located off the southeastern coast of Lord Howe Island, in the Tasman Sea. It’s one of the tallest sea stacks in the world, rising 562 meters (1,844 feet) above the surrounding waters. The pyramid-like formation, which was created by volcanic activity, is named after Henry Ball, the first person to sight it in 1788 during his voyage aboard the Supply.
Wildlife (Sooty Tern)
Lord Howe Island is a haven for birdlife, with more than 200 species of birds recorded on or around the island. The island is particularly important for seabirds, as it lies within their migratory paths. Many of the bird species are endemic to the island or are rare, making Lord Howe a critical area for conservation.