Discover Lord Howe Island: Your Next Off the Beaten Track Adventure
When it comes to breathtaking island escapes, few places compare to the pristine beauty of Lord Howe Island. Nestled in the Tasman Sea, about 600 kilometers off the coast of New South Wales, this tiny island is a hidden gem that offers a blend of relaxation and adventure. With its unique landscapes, diverse wildlife, and crystal-clear waters, Lord Howe Island is perfect for those looking to experience an untouched paradise away from the crowds.
At Off The Beaten Track Travel, we specialize in crafting experiences that take you off the well-worn path and immerse you in the hidden wonders of the world. As the Gold Coast’s travel agency of choice, we’re here to help you discover the magic of Lord Howe Island and create an unforgettable journey.
Why Visit Lord Howe Island?
With a limit of just 400 visitors allowed at any time, Lord Howe Island offers an exclusive experience. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, renowned for its rare ecosystems, unique flora and fauna, andbreathtaking coral reefs. Whether you’re a hiker, a snorkeler, or simply a lover of nature, Lord Howe Island has something for everyone.
1. A Nature Lover’s Paradise
One of the most striking features of Lord Howe Island is its natural beauty. The island is dominated by towering volcanic peaks, lush forests, and secluded beaches. Mount Gower is the highest point on the island and offers one of the best day hikes in Australia. The 14-kilometer trek takes you through misty forests and offers spectacular views of the island and surrounding ocean. Along the way, you’ll encounter rare plant species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.
The island is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 130 species of birds, including the rare Lord Howe Woodhen, a flightless bird once on the brink of extinction. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the island’s network of walking trails makes it easy to explore its diverse landscapes at your own speed.
2. World-Class Snorkeling and Diving
Lord Howe Island is surrounded by a lagoon protected by the world’s southernmost coral reef, offering some of the best snorkeling and diving opportunities in Australia. With warm, clear waters and visibility up to 30 meters, the underwater world of Lord Howe Island is teeming with marine life. You’ll find over 500 species of fish and 90 species of coral, many of which are unique to this part of the world.
Ned’s Beach is a must-visit for snorkelers, where you can wade straight from the shore into shallow waters filled with colorful fish. For divers, the island offers spectacular sites, including Ball’s Pyramid, the world’s tallest sea stack, which rises 550 meters out of the ocean. This area is home to rare species like the Galapagos Shark and offers an unforgettable diving experience.
3. Secluded Beaches
If you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, Lord Howe Island’s beaches offer some of the most pristine stretches of sand in the world. The island’s cap on visitor numbers ensures that you’ll often have these stunning beaches to yourself. Lagoon Beach is perfect for swimming and picnics, while Blinky Beach is a favorite for surfers, with its reliable swell and golden sand. No matter where you go, you’ll be surrounded by the untouched beauty of this island paradise.
4. Unique Wildlife
Lord Howe Island is home to an array of rare and endemic species, both on land and in the sea. The island’s isolation has allowed its ecosystems to flourish, with species found nowhere else on Earth. In addition to the Lord Howe Woodhen, the island is also known for the Lord Howe Island Phasmid, a large stick insect that was once thought to be extinct.
Marine life around the island is equally impressive. You can spot dolphins, turtles, and even humpback whales during their migration season. With so much to see, every encounter with nature feels like a special experience on Lord Howe Island.
Sustainable Travel on Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island has long been a model for sustainable tourism. Strict environmental regulations ensure that the island’s delicate ecosystems remain protected, and visitors are encouraged to tread lightly during their stay. The island’s small-scale tourism means that accommodation options are mostly eco-friendly lodges and guesthouses, providing an intimate and low-impact way to experience this unique destination.
At Off The Beaten Track Travel, we believe in responsible travel, and we work with local operators on Lord Howe Island to ensure that your visit supports conservation efforts and respects the environment.
How to Get to Lord Howe Island
Getting to Lord Howe Island is an adventure in itself. The island is accessible via a two-hour flight from Sydney or Brisbane, with a limited number of flights available each week. Due to the island’s limited capacity, it’s important to book your trip well in advance.
Once on the island, getting around is easy. With only a few roads and no need for cars, most visitors choose to explore by bicycle or on foot. This slow-paced approach allows you to fully appreciate the island’s beauty and tranquility.
When to Visit Lord Howe Island
The best time to visit Lord Howe Island depends on your interests. The warmer months from September to May are ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving, with temperatures ranging between 25°C and 30°C. If hiking and birdwatching are more your speed, the cooler months of June to August offer comfortable weather for exploring the island’s trails.
No matter when you choose to visit, the island’s cap on visitors ensures that you’ll always feel like you’ve stumbled upon a secluded paradise.
Why Choose Off The Beaten Track Travel?
Planning a trip to Lord Howe Island requires expert knowledge, and that’s where Off The Beaten Track Travel comes in. As the Gold Coast’s travel agency of choice, we specialize in creating personalized itineraries that allow you to experience Australia’s hidden gems in the most authentic and sustainable way possible. From arranging flights to booking eco-friendly accommodations and organizing unique experiences, we take care of all the details so you can focus on enjoying your adventure.
At Off The Beaten Track Travel, we pride ourselves on offering more than just a vacation. We create experiences that connect you to the natural world and help you uncover the true beauty of Australia’s remote destinations. Lord Howe Island is one of our favorite off-the-beaten-track adventures, and we’re excited to share it with you.
Book Your Lord Howe Island Adventure Today!
If you’re ready to discover one of Australia’s most stunning and secluded islands, Off The Beaten Track Travel is here to help. Let us craft the perfect itinerary for your journey to Lord Howe Island, where you’ll experience untouched nature, world-class snorkeling, and the kind of peace that only comes from being truly off the beaten path.