Lord Howe Island

What It Is and Where

The island sits on its own in the Tasman Sea, with Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird rising at the southern end and a sheltered lagoon on the west side. The East Australian Current keeps the water warm enough for coral this far south. Balls Pyramid, a volcanic sea stack about 20 kilometers to the southeast, is a famous dive site. In 2019, a major program removed rats and mice from the island, and birds, insects and plants have bounced back since.

What You Do There

• Climb Mount Gower, 875 meters, on a full-day guided walk of about 14 kilometers with roped sections
• Snorkel the lagoon and Ned's Beach, where fish come right into the shallows
• Dive around the island and out at Balls Pyramid
• Watch seabirds: red-tailed tropicbirds on the cliffs, sooty terns at Ned's Beach and shearwaters returning at dusk

Best Time to Go

Spring through autumn, roughly September to May, is warmest and best for swimming and birding. Shearwaters are on the island from September to May, and sooty terns nest from about September to January. Winter is cooler and quieter.

Getting There and How Long to Stay

QantasLink flies from Sydney in under two hours, and Eastern Air Services flies from Port Macquarie, Newcastle and the Gold Coast. Baggage is limited, often to 14 kilograms checked, so pack light. Book your lodge before your flights, since beds are capped. We suggest four to five nights.

Where We Like to Stay

Capella Lodge is a small, relaxed lodge at the southern end of the island with views across the lagoon to Mount Lidgbird and Mount Gower. It suits couples and active travelers who want hiking, snorkeling and good food without crowds.