10 of the best things to do on Lord Howe Island

From exploring misty peaks and underwater worlds to beach-hopping and fish-feeding, Lord Howe Island is a paradise for the adventurer and the nonchalant alike.

Cast off from the New South Wales coast and voluntarily maroon yourself on a glittering island paradise. Lord Howe’s pristine waters backdropped by looming mountains somehow conjure the intoxicating feeling that you’ve stumbled upon a truly lost world. Ancient and entirely untethered from the everyday, the best things to do on Lord Howe Island range from plunging into gemstone waters and communing with native species.

Slip into the underwater metropolis of the world’s southernmost coral reef to watch its high-vis beauty or scale moody Mount Gower to wander an enchantingly mist-draped forest. Whether you love to slow it right down or wind things up with a heart-pounding adventure, these are the must-do activities to enjoy before unwinding in your tropical accommodation.

Golden sunsets, tropical plates and beaches that look too perfect to be real – Lord Howe Island is paradise served fresh.

Best time to go to Lord Howe Island

cycling on Lord Howe Island — Explore this lush island on two wheels. (Image: Tourism Australia)

The easy answer is that there’s no perfect time to go to Lord Howe, as it’s perennially perfect. But while the temperature is ‘pleasant’ year-round, if you like it on the warmer side, you might opt for summer with average temperatures of 25 degrees. The most popular time to visit, however, is between September and May. Winter, on the other hand, is quieter and you’ll still enjoy plenty of warm and sunny days with a minimum of 12–14 degrees and a water temp that hovers around 18-degrees.

How to get to Lord Howe Island

scenic views of Lord Howe Island at sunrise — The ‘Galapagos of the South’ is rich with unique flora and fauna. (Image: tom-archer.com)

Although Lord Howe Island seems to occupy a space somewhere in the vicinity of paradise, it’s actually in NSW. Just 700 kilometres northeast of Sydney on the same latitude as Port Macquarie.

To get there, you’ll need to fly either from Sydney with QantasLink or with a charter through Eastern Air Services from the Gold Coast, Newcastle and Port Macquarie.

Things to do on Lord Howe Island

1. Experience one of the best day hikes in the world

sun rises over Lord Howe Island — Hike at sunrise to see spectacular island views. (Image: tom-archer.com)

The first thing you’ll notice as you fly into Lord Howe is the looming, Jurassic-looking Mt Gower. Often adorned with a foggy halo, this 875-metre sentinel dominates the island from almost every vantage.

It beckons adventurers to its fern-festooned top where a misty forest rewards hikers with glimpses of endemic woodhens and views of the surrounding waters that dazzle like polished gems.

Though ranked one of the best day hikes in the world, as a physically demanding, challenging grade 5 hike over tricky terrain, those considering climbing to Mount Gower’s summit should do so only with one of the island’s licensed guides, including Sea to Summit Expeditions guide, Jack Shick. As Lord Howe’s most experienced mountain guide, with over 2400 trips to the summit under his belt, Jack has taken walkers up the mountain regularly for over 30 years.

2. Spy Native Birdlife

a white tern resting on a tree branch, Lord Howe Island — Keep an eye out for some of the world’s rarest birds on Lord Howe Island. (Image: Destination NSW)

Seasoned twitchers will already be aware of the rich bird-watching opportunities on Lord Howe. With 14 species choosing to nest here come the breeding season, give your binoculars a spit and polish in anticipation of spotting a red-tailed tropicbird, muttonbird, and the star-attraction, one of the world’s rarest birds, the providence petrel. This seabird is so predator-free that its curiosity makes it a fascinating attraction. At dusk, if you call to the sky of circling petrels, you may be able to divert one from its flight to pop down and get a better look at you.

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

3. Explore Beneath the Sea

scuba diving beneath Lord Howe Island — Discover over 60 world-class dive sites beneath Lord Howe Island. (Image: Jordan Robins)

No matter whether you’re an accredited diver or prefer to snorkel, you’ll have plenty of underwater colour to ogle at this declared state marine park with 500 species of fish and 90 coral species. As you glide through the pristine waters, you’ll easily spot the high-vis kaleidoscope beneath the surface.

Perfect for kids and novice snorkellers, the calm lagoon is protected by the world’s most southern coral reef, while for divers, there are 60 sites to explore, most within a 20-minute boat ride. Keep a goggled eye out for rare and endemic species, including Spanish dancers, double header wrasse and the Ballina angelfish.

Prefer something a little more adrenaline pumping? With waters surrounding Lord Howe Island being the only place in Australia where you can view Galapagos Whaler sharks, it’s now possible to get up close by booking a Galapagos Shark experience with Dive Lord Howe or Reef n’ Beyond. These guided tours will not only provide you with fascinating facts about the majestic creatures, but also teach you how to swim safely with them.

And with freediving becoming ever more popular, Liv For the Sea is a great new way to dip your toes into this exhilarating underwater experience. From freediving training courses to day trips and private charters, founder Liv Rose will introduce you to the best underwater locations in just one breath. The season runs from November to May when visibility is at its peak.

4. Bask in some beach time

Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird as seen from Blinky Beach, Lord Howe Island — Take in views of Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird at Blinky Beach. (Image: tom-archer.com)

If a good book beckons – this is a holiday after all – unfurl your towel and pop your beach brolly for a sun-soaked session on the sand.

Whether it’s swimming in the lagoon, surfing at Blinky Beach, or spotting turtles and exploring the seclusion of Old Settlement, you’ll find the right stretch of shore to suit your vibe.

Hungry for more? As well as being the best spot for snorkelling on the island, Ned’s Beach is where you’ll find the friendliest fish in the country. You need only wade into the glittering waters here before you’re immediately swarmed by fish, mouths agape and waiting for you to deliver dinner.

The mullet, wrasse, garfish and silver drummers, among others, will nibble right out of your hand, making it a wildly thrilling experience for all ages. Grab a handful of approved fish food from the dispenser on the beach and swim in to wait on these finned diners. You can also hire snorkel gear from the beach, simply leave your money in the honesty box.

5. Quench your island thirst

filling a glass with tap beer at Lord Howe Island Brewery — Lord Howe Island Brewery pours experimental brews made from unique foraged finds. (Image: Heidi Morris)

One of the most popular watering holes for locals, Lord Howe Island Brewery has special permission by the Permanent Park Preserve to scour the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Island for unique ingredients to pop in their hops. The brewers then send these foraged finds off for testing before fermenting them to create experimental flavours. Often host to live music and events, Lord Howe Island Brewery provides a shady spot to taste the effervescence of their efforts while snacking on pizza, fresh from their woodfired oven.

Gin more your thing? Get down to Lord Howe Island distilling Co for a behind-the-scenes look to learn about at how the island’s first distillery produces its award-winning small batch gins. Made using wild and endemic botanicals found on the island, gin from the distillery’s range can be sampled during a guided tasting session with co-founder, Anthony Riddle, including those such as Wild Lemon and Hibiscus, Mountain Rose, and Reef Gin.

6. Check out Balls Pyramid

a bird flying above the Balls Pyramid on Lord Howe Island — Balls Pyramid stands 551 metres high. (Image: Destination NSW/Eugene Tan)

As far as rock formations go, Balls Pyramid is fairly spectacular on account of it being the tallest sea stack on the planet at 551 metres high. Jutting out like a giant spearhead 23 kilometres southeast of the island, you can spot the stack from lofty vantages around the island, but it’s well worth taking a boat charter to get face-to-rockface with it.

It also happens to be one of Australia’s best scuba diving sites with its basalt walls plunging to the depths below and providing shelter for all manner of sea life from turtles to dolphins and marlin. And for those who love fishing, while the marine park surrounding Lord Howe Island is off limits for commercial fishing, Ball’s Pyramid is one of the best spots offshore for recreational anglers to hook kingfish, tuna, and wahoo, with several chartered boat operators available to take you there.

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7. Transform on a wellness retreat

a woman doing some yoga on Lord Howe Island — Find Zen on a meditative retreat with Lord Howe Yoga. (Image: Emily Spirling)

Nirvana gets a little closer when you’re staying on tranquil Lord Howe, but you can shorten the distance between you and your contentment goals further with a yoga and wellness retreat. Karma Being’s five-night retreat that packages up daily yoga, meditation and breathwork, as well as most meals, a snorkel tour and transfers, among other inclusions. If you’d rather not commit to a full five days, join a casual class with Lord Howe Yoga where local instructor Nikki Belliveau will guide you through an outdoor session by the lagoon. Nikki also hosts workshops and a regular 1-day wellness retreat.

8.  Picnic like a pro

Believe it or not, one of the best things to do on Lord Howe is going for a picnic. Islanders love it so much there are dedicated picnic areas and BBQ facilities dotted all around the island.

You could pack your own, but if you want to experience a true taste of Lord Howe, why not let an award-winning local picnic operator do it for you? Taking out Gold for Excellence in Food Tourism at the NSW Tourism Awards in 2023, and Silver for Excellence in Food Tourism at the 2024 Australian Tourism Awards, Love Lord Howe’s Couples or Small Group Picnics set up includes a low table, cushions, crockery, cutlery, glassware and a delicious grazing platter. Setting up in the best location on the day, there’s also the option to add champagne, wine and soft drinks.

9. Walk on the wildside

hikers taking the cliffside walk up Mount Gower, Lord Howe Island — Conquer the cliffside trail up Mount Gower. (Image: Tourism Australia)

While Mount Gower is the beast to conquer, Lord Howe Island’s other beautiful peaks, trails and beaches also deserve your attention. Take a guided tour with Lord Howe Island’s newest walking tour operator, Wildside Walks. With a background in environmental restoration and conservation, founder Jae De Clouett offers informative full and half-day tours to some of the island’s best and lesser-known gems, including Valley of the Shadows, Goat House Cave, Northern Hills, and Wildside Walks’ latest offering, Mount Gower Saddle Trek.

Alternatively, wander the island yourself. See here for the best walks on Lord Howe.

10. Take to the dark skies

Did you know Lord Howe is one of Australia’s best stargazing destinations? This year, the island will celebrate its dark sky status with the introduction of Dark Sky Festival. The inaugural event, planned to take place this year, from April 26 to May 1 will include events such as expert-led stargazing and astrophotography workshops, a Dark Dining experience, a nocturnal wildlife walk with a local naturalist, panel discussion Science Talks, a Stargazing Yoga and Wellbeing Experience, and Dancing Under the Stars.

Now read our guide to everything Lord Howe Island.

Originally written by Lara Picone with updates by Bonita Grima

A great night out doesn’t need a road trip, just the right bar. Swap the long drive for an evening at these standout Sydney venues.

If you’re thinking of a staycation or a long weekend (with foodie benefits), you can’t get much better than the bright lights and beautiful vistas of Sydney. From tucked-away bars to late-night hidden hangs, Australia’s (unofficial) favourite city is packed full of venues that make staying local feel like an adventure.

And with Vivid lighting up the sky this winter, there’s no better time to find the perfect cosy spot to enjoy the views or escape the crowds.

1. El Vista, Circular Quay

bar tender at El Vista, Circular Quay sydney hotel bars — Enjoy tasty cocktails and gorgeous Sydney views. (Credit: Mario Francisco)

This welcoming bar by the Maybe Sammy team offers a fun buzz and jaw-dropping harbour views. Part of the Pullman Quay Grand Sydney Harbour, this lounge bar sits above Circular Quay with the harbour on one side and the Botanical Gardens on the other. You may start here for pre-dinner drinks, but you won’t want to leave before the early hours. If the 1960s Acapulco vibe isn’t enough, the views will be – the Sydney Harbour Bridge is so close it hardly fits in the window, while ferries glide by all night.

2. Bar Allora, CBD

Bar Allora, CBD Sydney hotel bars — Settle in for a taste of Italy.

Inspired by Milan in the 1980s, Bar Allora brings Italian style and culture to the CBD. Although it’s officially part of the Mantra 2 Bond Street hotel, it’s designed to look and feel like you’ve travelled to Italy for all-day dining. Think espresso in the morning, aperitivo in the afternoon and Negronis late into the night. Accompany your liquid diet with Italian-style small plates and pastas with a modern twist.

3. Percy, Pyrmont

Percy Sydney hotel bars — Spanish-style tapas and wine is the name of the game. (Credit: Steven Woodburn)

Taking centre stage in the luxe foyer of the Woolstore 1888 Hotel in Pyrmont, Percy is a popular Spanish-style tapas and wine bar serving food that makes you want to linger. The restored 138-year-old wool store creates an atmospheric backdrop to your glass of merlot with exposed timber beams, brick and the echoes of Sydney’s past. With an air of Barcelona, expect low conversations, creative dining and the city moments away.

4. The Crudo Bar at Flaminia, CBD

The Crudo Bar at Flaminia, CBD Sydney hotel bars — Seafood lovers should head to The Crudo Bar. (Credit: Nikki To)

Grab a seat at the beautifully designed crudo bar, taking centre stage of Giovanni Pilu’s latest CBD restaurant, Flaminia. Enjoy a glass of chilled Vermentino from Sardinia or prosecco from the hills of Treviso, matched with freshly shucked oysters. Complement your seafood with a range of special dressings, influenced by iconic Italian port cities. It’s the perfect spot for a pre- or post- glass of wine before visiting the Sydney Opera House.

5. Mee So, Sydney Central

For something a little different, Mee So is a modern, neon-lit Japanese-influenced bar in the Ibis Sydney Central. Serving bold flavours and umami-heavy dishes alongside sake and yuzu-infused cocktails, this Tokyo-esque venue offers an escape from the busy streets outside. Order steaming ramen, a Japanese whisky and make a corner of Mee So yours for the night.

6. Bar Morris, Haymarket

Bar Morris sydney — Settle into old-world European glamour.

Housed in a 1929 heritage-listed building, Bar Morris brings old-world European glamour to the Hotel Morris Sydney, part of Accor’s Handwritten Collection. More of a destination than a pitstop, this bar leans into its Art Deco past with velvet features, intimate lighting and bold brass finishes. Here you can order smaller plates like burrata, cured meats, and seasonal seafood to match your martini.

7. Pumphouse, Darling Harbour

Pumphouse sydney — Enjoy a tipple inside a building from the 1880s.

When you first walk into Pumphouse, you’ll quickly notice the high ceilings, exposed brick and industrial style decor. Officially part of the busy Novotel Darling Square, this busy local hang doesn’t feel like it; it’s housed inside a former hydraulic pumping station from the 1880s – hence the name – and a local institution. Grab a seat if you can and order off the classic modern Australian menu, before trying one of the many craft beers on tap to wash it down.

8. Wentworth Bar, CBD

Wentworth Bar sydney hotel bars — Drink where the celebrities once did.

Designed for big groups and late-night cocktails, this open-air terrace bar is part of the Sydney Sofitel Wentworth – one of Sydney’s most iconic hotels. Once the watering hole of royals and celebrities, this mid-century building has recently been refurbished to be sleek, modern and inviting. The stunning rooftop bar attracts Sydneysiders who love to watch the sunset with a table full of Vietnamese and French-inspired dishes.

9. Monica Rooftop Bar, Paddington

Monica Rooftop Bar, Paddington sydney — See the city skyline, drink in hand.

Sitting pretty on top of a restored 110-year-old theatre, Monica is a Hollywood-style rooftop bar with views across Paddington and the city skyline. Part of the 25hrs The Olympia hotel, this isn’t a quick drink kind of place, it’s a ‘let’s stay all night’ kind of venue. Weekend DJs will take you from sunset to late-night conversations, while you graze on ceviche, grilled meats or sharing plates.

For more information on how to enjoy Sydney for a long weekend, visit ALL.com.

10 of the best things to do on Lord Howe Island

From exploring misty peaks and underwater worlds to beach-hopping and fish-feeding, Lord Howe Island is a paradise for the adventurer and the nonchalant alike.

Best time to go to Lord Howe Island

How to get to Lord Howe Island

Things to do on Lord Howe Island