Lord Howe Island

Australia

Lord Howe Island is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. It's an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil, unspoiled escape with excellent opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and birdwatching.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay5 days
Budget$100/day
Mid-range$300/day
Luxury$1000/day

Known For

New South WalesPacific OceanBall's PyramidNorfolk IslandSydney

🇦🇺 Country Information: Australia

CapitalCanberra
CurrencyAustralian dollar ($)
Language English , Mandarin, Arabic, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Italian, Greek
Phone Code+61
Electricity230V (Type I)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for excellent service (\~10% in restaurants, rounding up for taxis, a few dollars for hotel staff)
  • Tipping is not customary in cafes or pubs

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted
  • It is good to have some cash for smaller purchases and markets
  • There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Casual dress is common
  • Punctuality is appreciated but a bit flexible
  • "No worries" is a common phrase meaning "no problem"
  • Australians are generally direct and friendly, but overly effusive greetings might be unexpected

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Australia has robust LGBTQ+ anti-discrimination laws and same-sex marriage is legal nationwide.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18 nationwide
  • Drug laws are strict, with varying penalties for possession, use, and supply
  • Cannabis laws vary by state/territory

Special Laws

  • Sun protection is legally required for outdoor workers
  • It is illegal to feed wild animals
  • Jaywalking is illegal in many areas
  • Strict quarantine laws apply to bringing food and biological items into the country

Common Phrases

HelloG'day (guh-day)
CheersCheers (cheerz)
Thank youTa (tah)

Climate

Climate Zone: Humid Subtropical

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Fresh Seafood must_try

Given its island location, Lord Howe Island is known for incredibly fresh seafood, often sourced locally each day. Dishes range from simple 'fish frie

Lord Howe Island Brewery Beer alcohol

The only beer brewed on Lord Howe Island, this local creation is a must-try for visitors. Enjoying a locally brewed beer at the brewery's garden is a

Contemporary Australian Cuisine regional_speciality

Restaurants on the island often curate daily menus showcasing Australia's freshest produce and ingredients. This focus results in modern dishes that b

Home-baked Roast Dinners must_try

Reflecting a comforting, home-style approach to dining, traditional roast dinners are a popular option on the island. These meals provide a hearty con

Takeaway Burgers and Fish and Chips street_food

Ideal for a quick lunch or casual evening meal, classic Australian takeaway fare is readily available. This includes satisfying burgers, fish and chip

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Accommodation (Guesthouses/Lodges) Accommodation
Book 3–6 months in advance, especially for peak season.

Only 400 visitors are allowed on the island at any time, meaning accommodation capacity is extremely limited and often sells out far in advance.

Mount Gower Guided Hike Permit permit_or_pass
Book 3–8 weeks in advance.

Permits are limited and must be secured in advance through local tour operators to ascend Mount Gower, a popular activity.

Flights to Lord Howe Island Transport
Book 2–4 months in advance.

Flights are the primary access point, and capacity is highly restricted due to the island's strict visitor cap, making tickets scarce.

Fun Facts

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