Australia
Lord Howe Island
Forested volcanic peaks rise from a crescent-shaped coral lagoon in the Tasman Sea
Two dramatic basalt spires anchor this narrow crescent of land, where dense palm forests give way to white sand beaches and a turquoise lagoon. The island feels like a carefully preserved fragment of another era, with just 400 residents and strict visitor limits that keep the beaches uncrowded and the walking paths quiet. Kentia palms unique to this place tower overhead while masked boobies nest in clifftop colonies.
What draws people here
- —twin volcanic peaks dominating a small forested island
- —protected coral lagoon with calm turquoise waters
- —endemic wildlife including flightless woodhens and towering Kentia palms
- —uncrowded beaches backed by dense subtropical forest
Island character
nature•wildlife•beaches
Island rhythm
morning
Early hikers set out for the mountain peaks while cyclists pedal quiet roads to empty beaches
afternoon
Snorkelers explore the lagoon as others rest under Kentia palms or climb to lookout points
night
The small community gathers at a few restaurants while masked boobies return to their clifftop roosts
Best ways to experience Lord Howe Island
- 01hike the steep trail to the summit of Mount Gower through cloud forest
- 02cycle the flat road network connecting beaches and settlements
- 03snorkel the coral lagoon from multiple beach access points
- 04walk forest trails between the settlements and secluded southern beaches