Your Guide to Planning a Norfolk Island Holiday

There’s something truly special about Norfolk Island holidays – from its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural history to the peace and tranquillity that’s hard to find in busier destinations. But while the charm of a Norfolk Island holiday is undeniable, planning the perfect trip can feel a little overwhelming. How do you make sure you’re experiencing everything the island has to offer? That’s where we come in.

At Spacifica Travel, we help people plan and book holidays to the South Pacific offering a range of Norfolk Island holiday packages that cater to different interests. Whether you’re an adventure-seeker, a history enthusiast, or simply in need of some relaxation, Norfolk Island has something for everyone. With the right planning, your Norfolk Island travels can be as seamless as they are unforgettable.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning your trip. From top accommodation choices to must-see activities, we’re here to ensure your Norfolk Island holiday is everything you’ve dreamed of and more. So, get ready to uncover the best of this unique South Pacific island!

Planning Your Norfolk Island Holiday

Are you considering a holiday to Norfolk Island? Then the below guide to planning your Norfolk Island holiday will give you great insight and expert tips to this amazing Island.

Flight Schedules

Norfolk Island is not serviced daily from Australia. Qantas flies four times a week from Sydney and three times a week from Brisbane (during peak times). Domestic connections from other domestic ports are available (eg. Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth, Cairns).

Best time to visit Norfolk Island

Due to the island's sub-tropical climate the weather is temperate year-round, which means anytime is a good time to see Norfolk Island. There is a wet winter from April through until August and a dry summer from September through until March. The water temperature is consistent through most of the year so snorkelling and water-based activities aren't out of the question in winter but you do want to bring some warmer layers especially for the evening.

Accommodation on Norfolk Island

There is a large array of accommodation types/styles on offer on the island, with something to suit everyone's budget or tastes in our Norfolk Island accommodation packages. Predominantly the accommodation on the island is self-catering apartments/cottages/villas or homes. Large resorts like the South Pacific Hotel, Governor's Lodge Resort Hotel or Paradise Resort have upwards of 30 rooms on offer to clients looking for the more traditional hotel/resort style option.

Car Hire

As the island has no public transport and only one taxi, anyone visiting the island will at some point require a car to get out and explore this amazing Island. All of our Norfolk Island holiday packages come with the car hire included for the duration of your stay. Just remember that cows have the right of way on the roads!

Shopping Hours

When it comes to shopping, Norfolk Island is like visiting a country town, with the main shopping hours on Norfolk Island between approximately 9 am to 5 pm. On Wednesdays and Saturdays, shops close at 12:30 pm. Most shops are closed on Sundays, with a few exceptions that are open until 12:30 pm.

The main supermarket on Norfolk Island is called Foodland’s Supermarket is open 7 days a week until 6 pm for your main grocery needs. The Farmers markets are on every Saturday morning from 7.30 am - 10.30 am. The Island Arts and Craft markets are on every Sunday morning from 8.30 am - 11.00 am.

Tours on the Island

Touring is one of the best ways to learn about the island, from its history, current way of life, nature and animal life to cooking classes, there is something for everyone. Check out our 10 Unique things to do on Norfolk Island blog or World Heritage and Historic Places on Norfolk Island blog to learn more.

Norfolk Island Restaurants

Locavore is the word that comes to mind when dining on Norfolk Island. With the island being able to grow most of its produce on the Island, everything is so fresh, but please note things can be seasonal. There are over 30 different dining locations on the island but a Dinner/Show is another great option for eating out.  Please note that restaurants aren’t open every night of the week so please check with the restaurant before heading out.

Other Things to Know About the Island:

Electricity

Their power is 240Volts AC and their power points are all three pin plugs like we have in Australia. A power surge protection device is advised for all electronic equipment.

Hospital

Medicare is accepted on Norfolk Island. There is a medical clinic on the island, if you require major medical treatment, then you would be sent to mainland Australia via a medical flight.

Phones

There is a local mobile network on Norfolk Island that if you take your mobile with you, you can purchase a local sim card to use in your mobile phone provided you are not locked to a particular phone company. Norfolk Telecom Hotspot Vouchers are available for purchase for prepaid internet time using your device's Wi-Fi capabilities.

Language

English is the common language on Norfolk Island but the Norfolk Islanders speak their own language which is a mixture of English and Tahitian. The language was brought to the Island by the Pitcairners. If you are interested in learning more about the local language, Spacifica Travel includes a “Norfolk Language Class” in all our packages.

Time Difference

Norfolk Island does have its own time zone which is GMT + 11 (or UTC +11 hours). This is 1 hour ahead of AEST which is inline with the South Island of New Zealand. Norfolk Island does have daylight savings from October - April.

Tips for Packing

• Please pack your prescription medication into your hand luggage in case your check baggage is delayed.

• Foodstuffs – Fresh fruit and vegetables are prohibited imports into Norfolk Island.

• Make sure to pack a jacket as it can get really windy and cool at night

We hope you enjoy our guide for planning a trip to Norfolk Island. If you would like more information about Norfolk Island or would like to discuss Spacifica Travel’s Norfolk Island travel packages, please get in touch with our team of specialist travel consultants on 1800 800 722.