Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed paradise located in the Tasman Sea, is renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse wildlife. With its limited number of visitors allowed each year, Lord Howe Island offers a secluded retreat for travellers seeking natural beauty and tranquillity. In this travel guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to plan your unforgettable journey to this remote gem.

Passport and Visa Requirements for Australians

As Lord Howe Island is part of New South Wales, Australia, Australian citizens do not require a passport or visa to visit. However, a government-issued form of identification, such as a driver's license or birth certificate, is necessary for travel. Middle names are not required on hotel or flight bookings, but first and last names must match your ID. It's also essential to check any travel restrictions or entry requirements that may be in place due to environmental conservation efforts or special regulations for the island.

Travel Insurance

While medical services are available on Lord Howe Island, travel insurance is still recommended to cover unexpected emergencies, trip cancellations, and activities that most visitors partake in such as hiking, snorkelling, and diving.

Currency and General Cost

As a part of Australia Lord Howe Island still uses the Australian Dollar (AUD). An ATM is available on the island, but there may be limited withdrawal amounts and higher fees due to the remote location. Credit cards are widely accepted.

As for general costs, Lord Howe Island is akin to mainland Australia prices, though slightly elevated due to the difficulty and cost in having goods transported to and stored on the island.

How to Get There and How Long to Stay

Lord Howe Island is accessible by direct flights from Sydney, Port Macquarie, Gold Coast and Newcastle, with other cities flying via Sydney. Flight durations vary but generally range from around 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours. It's advisable to book flights well in advance, as seat availability is limited due to the restricted number of visitors allowed on the island each year and the small size of the aircraft. It’s all worth noting that the smaller plane means a reduced baggage allowance too, so check your ticket information!

When planning your itinerary, consider spending at least a week on Lord Howe Island to allow yourself to complete all the incredible hikes, dives, and swims. And of course you need time for relaxation too! If travelling over winter you may be comfortable with a 5 night stay instead as some operators close over the quiet season.

Top 3 Things to See or Do

1. Hike to the Summit of Mount Gower: Embark on a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit of Mount Gower, the highest peak on Lord Howe Island. Led by experienced guides, the full-day trek takes you through lush rainforests, ancient banyan trees, and rugged terrain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island and surrounding ocean. Keep an eye out for endemic bird species such as the Lord Howe Island woodhen and Providence Petrel along the way.
2. Snorkel at Ned's Beach: Discover the underwater wonders of Ned's Beach, one of Lord Howe Island's most accessible snorkelling spots. Just steps from the shore, you'll encounter a diverse array of marine life, including colourful coral reefs, tropical fish, and friendly green sea turtles. Bring your own snorkelling gear or rent equipment from the nearby kiosk, and spend hours exploring the vibrant underwater world at your leisure. You can hand feed the fish here too!
3. Relax on Lagoon Beach: Unwind and soak up the sun on Lagoon Beach, a secluded stretch of pristine white sand framed by crystal-clear turquoise waters. Accessible via a short walk or bike ride from the island's settlement, Lagoon Beach offers a tranquil retreat for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Pack a picnic and spend the day lounging in paradise, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and the sounds of the ocean.

Escape to Tranquillity

Lord Howe Island offers a rare opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature in a pristine island paradise. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and secluded beaches, Lord Howe Island promises an unforgettable experience for travellers seeking peace, adventure, and natural beauty. Book your Lord Howe Island getaway with Spacifica Travel by calling 1800 800 722 or visiting us online.

Photos courtesy of Lord Howe Island Tourism, Emily Armstrong, Izak Surf Photography, Kylie Bowman