Is Norfolk Island Worth Visiting & 19 Things to do!
The Island of Norfolk is often overlooked as a tourist destination, especially for the younger generation. It’s known as a laid-back and low-key holiday and an idyllic paradise nestled in the middle of the Pacific Ocean! But, Is Norfolk Island worth visiting for everyone, and what things can you do there?
This is a popular spot for the older generation and my own mother has visited time and time again. But after hearing her rave about it so much, I just had to check it out myself.
In this blog post, I will discuss what I got up to and help you decide if it’s good for you.
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Is Norfolk Island Worth Visiting
Key Takeaways:
I loved my first visit to Norfolk Island, and Yes, I think it’s absolutely worth visiting. It’s a true Pacific paradise, with a history stretching back to Britain’s first settlement in 1788 and Captain James Cook.
But if history isn’t your thing, don’t worry, the island is brimming with activities such as beach days, snorkelling and hikes, guaranteeing there’s an activity well suited to your group.
But this unspoiled slice of heaven also offers couples and families craving a low-key holiday. As a small island, its pace of life is much slower and quieter than many other precincts. Therefore, I think you just have to visit at least once to experience this type of island life!
What are the best attractions?
Norfolk Island is a small Pacific island located off the east coast of Australia that exudes an old-world charm. Belonging both geographically and culturally to Australia, it a destination often forgotten, but I’m here to tell you why you should visit.
1. Emily Bay
Emily Bay is a beach lovers’ paradise with crystal-clear waters making swimming safe and enjoyable, and all contained within a small cove. While the endless bright sandy beach allows you to relax and soak up the sun.
Popular among families with young ones and if you’re looking for the ideal daily swim spot or snorkelling adventure. There is a pontoon in the bay that makes for a nice breather while getting that daily swim in, or you can try sunbathing on the beach.
➡ Compare prices for All the Norfolk Island Tours HERE with Viator.
2. Captain Cook Lookout & Monument
Look no further than the Captain Cook Lookout & Monument for a dose of history and a scenic views. The monument was erected in 1953 to commemorate the arrival of James Cook, who spent five weeks surveying the area before exploring the South Pacific Islands.
It’s an obelisk shaped structure made with small stone, and it’s an impressive sight on the cliff’s side! From the lookout point, you can enjoy magnificent views out on the Pacific Ocean. So, be sure to bring your camera and snap away!
3. Organised Tours
Tours around the island offer the perfect way to experience this sun-drenched tropical paradise without having to drive yourself. It’s also a great way to learn about the local history and get your questions answered by knowledgeable guides.
➡ Compare prices for All the Norfolk Island Tours HERE with Viator.
Tours include learning about the convict settlement, trying the local delicacies, progressive dinners, and ghost tours. Along with tours around the island and visiting the highlight spots.
4. Play Golf
Are you looking for a golfing destination with rich history? The Golf Club is nestled within a World Heritage Site, and offers stunning views from its southern location on the island.
5. Visit the oldest Convict Settlement.
In 1824, the island was opened as a penal settlement as secondary punishment and one of the toughest in the British empire. The Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area is one of 11 historical sites representing the global forced convict migration phenomenon.
These sites were collectively inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in July 2010.
6. Watch a Sunset or sunrise over the Ocean.
Watching a beautiful sunrise or sunset over the ocean is a heart-stopping experience. Ideally here, with low pollution, the colours are enhanced, and those beautiful blues, pinks, and purples will stretch for miles. Try looking out across the horizon and listen to the gentle waves crashing onto the shore rhythmically.
7. See the Colleen McCullough House
Colleen McCullough (1937 to 2015), a world-renowned author of 24 books, resided on Norfolk Island for almost 36 years. She was an Aussie author primarily known for writing “The Thorn Birds” and “The Ladies of Missalonghi.”
She and her husband, local Ric Robinson, created a luxurious hideaway while keeping to themselves most days so that Colleen could have the ideal environment for writing new novels.
➡ Want a to Tour Colleens House? Book your Home Tour HERE with Viator.
8. St Barnabas Chapel
The 19th-century church took the missionaries five years to create with all its intricate features like mother-of-pearl inlays, stained glass windows, and a shipwreck Vaulted timber ceiling.
An open-door policy allows visitors to check out when it’s convenient for them. However, standard services will take place at 9am every Sunday morning.
9. Explore the Walking Trails.
Whether you’re looking for short and leisurely walks, or something a bit more intense, there’s bound to be something that suits your fitness level. Even on a short visit, I was recommended a couple to fill in my time with some phenomenal views.
Between the Botanic Gardens, the National Park, climbing hills and walking through the surrounding bushland – I would like to think there is an ideal one for you.
Just watch out for animals along the way, and even in the parking bays. We stopped for a quick photo and about 50 baby chickens found there way to our feet. – This was not easy to drive out of.
Note: you can download the Walking Track Maps here to help find which one is best for you.
➡ Book your Norfolk Island Hiking Tours HERE with Viator
10. Drive or walk up Mount Pitt.
Climbing or driving up Mount Pitt offers a mountainous area, home to some of the best views on the island. This makes it an ideal spot for someone looking for an outdoor adventure.
Whether you choose to drive or walk up the mountain, you’re sure to appreciate the stunning scenery as you make your way up and down. The peaceful atmosphere found on this island makes it one of the best places to take in some impressive 360-degree views!
11. Astrophotography or admire the night sky
This is one of the best places to enjoy astrophotography due to its dark sky, low light pollution, and stunning nightscape views. With you trusty camera, you can appreciate a the dark sky is lit up with vibrant stars and especially the Milky Way. Consequently, making your visit to the island an out-of-this-world experience.
12. Fishing Charters
If you’re looking for healthy and plentiful waters to go fishing? The waters encircling this beautiful South Pacific island are full of everything from dolphin fish and tuna to kingfish and wahoo.
What’s more, there’s no commercial fishing here which means that anything that you take away, you get to keep! Fishing charters on offer range from private trips around islands perfect for land-based or deep-water options.
➡ Check out this 8 day guided tour HERE you can book with Viator
13. Diving or Snorkelling
Grab or snorkel and Mask and walk off the beach in your time schedule. Places like Emily Bay and Slaughter Beach will provide surprising coral reefs and year-round fun. Otherwise, book a dive trip and visit some of the favourite local places.
The clear waters boast an array of marine life limited only by how deep your courage takes you. Whether you’re looking for an action-packed holiday or just want a peaceful day spent in clear blue seas, trying out the diving or snorkelling.
14. Anson Bay
Anson Bay allows visitors to experience an idyllic setting and it certainly surprised me. It’s located on the eastern cliffs, with its majestic zig-zagging pathway down the cliffs into the bay below. This was pretty easy to get down and only took about 5 to 10 minutes, but be prepared for a heart-pumping venture on the way back up.
It’s a refreshing and peaceful location, perfect for having a relaxing swim in crystal clear waters. But, know this beach is not lifeguarded, so watch out for the under-toe and never swim alone – It’s not the easiest to get out after an injury.
15. Birdwatching
With exotic birds like the green parrot and morepork owl, Norfolk Island is unsurprisingly home to a wide variety of birds. This means the island’s seclusion has many of these birds existing nowhere else in the world.
16. Find Sharks circling off the Kingston Pier.
Every year, large sharks circle off the Kingston Pier with rapt attention, eagerly awaiting a cheap meal from the local fishermen as they clean their daily catch.
The area is teeming with marine life and the ideal spot for these majestic creatures to come around and scavenge for food. With their silver sides shimmering in the sun, it’s a sight you’ll be telling stories of after you get back home.
17. Shopping
Burnt Pine is the name of the town centre, where you will find a variety of shops and cafes. Plus locally made and produced items, and a quality selection of imported products. General shopping hours are 9 am – 5 pm, although some shops close on Wednesday and Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday. Although, the supermarkets are open 7 days a week.
18. Trip to the Winery
On the northeast coast, you will find the Island’s first winery. The Two Chimney Wines has a cellar door, but lunch is recommended and where they use and serve locally sourced produce. We tried a couple of the drops here, but just make sure you have a designated driver.
19. Crystal Pools
These crystal blue rock pools have an array of beautiful fish left behind by the tide and a superb swimming area (If you can get to it). Unfortunately, it’s a steep climb down, and getting up is even more challenging but there is a rope to help those who want to try.
In the end, it’s best to visit at low tide and never swim in the rough weather. There was a lot of wind on the day we visited, and not a good time for swimming. However, I would have jumped in if it was calm.
➡ Compare prices for All the Tours HERE with Viator.
Where to Stay?
Norfolk Island offers enough choices when it comes to a place to stay for a couple of day to a week long visit. Firstly, there are options for a little more luxury, with top-notch service, exclusive facilities, and comfortable rooms set within lush tropical gardens.
➡ Compare prices for All your Island Accommodation HERE with Booking.com
For something a bit cosier, check out one of the smaller motels or holiday apartments scattered across the island. Whichever option you go with, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on the perfect spot for your stay.
- Governors Lodge Resort Hotel (Pictured Below and also where I stayed)
- Anson Bay Lodge
- Islander Lodge Apartments
- Seaview
- Whispering Pines Cottages
- Ocean Breeze Cottages
- Bucks Point – Holiday Homes
How to get there?
To get there, all you need to do is book a flight with Air New Zealand or Qantas Airways from either Brisbane or Sydney (or use them as a transit city).
- Flights from Sydney (Mondays and Fridays) takes Approx. 2.5 Hours.
- Brisbane (Tuesdays and Saturdays) Approx. 2.5 Hours.
- From Auckland on Sundays. Approx. 2.5 Hours.
- Melbourne or Adelaide typically takes about 4 hours (Transit through Sydney).
- Perth, it’s somewhat longer, and some travellers like to take a stopover in Sydney.
➡ Book you Norfolk Airport Transfers HERE with Viator
Do you need a passport?
No, passports are not mandatory from Australia to fly to Norfolk Island. However, you will be boarding in the International Terminal and they are still your best forms or preferred identification.
I was really nervous to get to the international airport without mine, so I still took my passport and used it to fly. But, I’m unsure how much the situation would change without it. Therefore, If you have one, I suggest taking it!
How to get around?
Hiring a car will be an invaluable way to really experience what the region has to offer. It’s what we did and seems to be “The Norm” when flying in. Not only that, it does allow you to move around on your time schedule and come and go as you please.
If you choose NOT to hire a car, then you can choose between organized Tours, taxis, push bikes, or walking. However, know that the Island is too big to walk everywhere (about 3 hours from one side to the other), so my first option would be to hire a car or use the tours.
Driving around, you will notice the “Norfolk Wave,” where the locals wave to every passing car. It’s incredibly infectious, and you will soon join in.
Note: Please remember when that cows or other animals take priority on all roads, and YOU give way to them.
Where to Eat?
Looking for somewhere to eat, then try out some of the great choices below:
- The Olive Café – Burnt Pine
- The Garden Restaurant and Bar – Queen Elizabeth Ave
- The Homestead Restaurant – 264 New Farm Rd
- Hilli Restaurant and Café – Queen Elizabeth Ave
- Castaway Restaurant & Bar – Taylors Road, Burnt Pine
- Bounty Bar and Grill – 3a Taylors Rd, Burnt Pine
- Two Chimneys Winery – Two Chimneys Rd
- Bailey’s Restaurant – Queen Elizabeth Ave
- Bowling Club Bistro – Burnt Pine
How Many Days do you need?
To get a real taste of the Island, plan to spend at least 7 days there. At a minimum, I think this helps with the flight times to and from the Island. If you’re not able to commit that much time, consider 2 nights as a way to get the highlights without breaking your schedule.
Know that I did the two nights and flew direct in and out of Brisbane. While this was a pleasant taste test for me, I believe that I needed more time to really get a feel for the place.
Best Time to Visit?
The best time of year to visit Norfolk Island is in Spring (September to November) and right after in the summer. During this period, the temperatures remain mild while embracing a beautiful variety of botanical wonders provided by nature.
Surprisingly, the weather is relatively steady all year round. The climate averages between 10 to 26 degrees, and rain will be its heaviest in the cooler winter season between April and August.
Is Norfolk Island Part of Australia
Norfolk Island is situated between Australia, New Zealand, and New Caledonia and, yes, is part of Australia. However, it’s technically an external territory of the Commonwealth, with its own state constitution and laws. Still, the island ultimately comes under the jurisdiction of the Australian federal government and is considered Australian soil.
Is there Phone Service?
Yes, there is phone service available – but if you’re thinking of going out into the bushland areas, be aware that your coverage might be a bit patchy. Know that using your phone or data is considered International roaming and will be charged at the applicable rates. And, yes, this can get expensive.
SIM cards can be purchased at the airport or in certain stores in town. These can assist in the Data and phone use while your touring around, but a more reasonable price.
The good thing is, most of the hotels will provide Wi-Fi service in your hotel rooms for a daily charge. Obviously, this is going to be cheaper than Data roaming.
What are the Speed Limits
The speed limit is 40km/h through town, 25km/h in the National Parks, and down at Kingston and Emily Bay.
The school zone is 30km/h between the hours of 8.00am and 3.30pm during school days.
Outside of these areas, the speed limit is 50km/h.
Do you use Cash or Card?
The great news is that while Norfolk Island doesn’t have its own currency, the Australian Dollar is widely used and accepted in the area. Credit cards are also available should you need to use them, so there is no need to worry about taking too much cash with you on your trip!
How Big is it?
Norfolk Island is just 8km long, 5km wide, 35 square kilometres in size, and one of Australia’s most isolated communities. There are 2 mountains, standing 300 metres tall, surrounded by rich farming land. Overall, it has over 170km of road, and most are sealed and suitable for a small 2-wheel drive vehicle.
What’s the Population?
It has a population of over 2000 people, and the primary language is English. Still, some Norfolk Islanders speak the local language Norf’k, which is a mix of Tahitian and Old English.
Visitors would be very amused by the local telephone directory, where nicknames are commonly used instead of less formal names.
What is the Norfolk Island Pine?
The evergreen Norfolk Island Pine Tree is a symbol of the island and is pictured on the island’s flag. It’s native to the island, and a crucial export, being a popular ornamental tree on mainland Australia (where two related species grow) and also worldwide.
Fun Fact: I have also encountered Norfolk Island Pine Trees on my visit to Fraser Island.
History of the Island
- Captain James Cook was the first European to set foot on Norfolk Island in October 1774. Cook reported that it contained giant pines and was rich with flax, which the British desperately needed for shipbuilding. He named it after Mary Howard, Duchess of Norfolk.
- Its one of Australia’s oldest territories, having been settled six weeks after Australia’s founding settlement at Sydney, New South Wales.
- Served as a penal colony, with the First penal settlement from 1788 to 1814 and a Second penal settlement established 11 years later from 1824 to 1856.
- Was where the most dangerous convicts were sent, and convicts were sentenced to death for committing crimes.
- The remains of the penal colony have UNESCO World Heritage status and are revered for their historical significance. You can visit the settlement’s remains, an eerie yet beautiful collection that includes a jail, a cemetery, a governor’s house, and a salt house.
- In 1855 Queen Victoria gifted Norfolk to the Pitcairn Islanders as their new home. This was because they had outgrown Pitcairn and could no longer provide provisions to the inhabitants.
- In 1856, the entire community of 194 people sailed to their new home on the 3rd of May. Over time, the new colonists made their new island into a home. They worked the soil and attempted to export the produce.
- For much of the 1900s, they earned most of their income through whaling.
- An airstrip was built during World War II, which led to it’s current status as a popular tourist destination.
Wrap up – Is Norfolk Island Worth Visiting & Things to do
Thanks for reading this blog post to find out if Norfolk Island is worth visiting and the things to do there. I hope you found what you were looking for, but if you’re still researching please check out my other Queensland Blogs for inspiration.
Check out other blogs:
The 4 Largest Sand Islands in the World & How to Visit
The Best Queensland Waterfalls for you to visit
Best Beaches in Queensland with Map & Photo’s
Photos of Queensland Wildflowers, Australia
