The 8 Best Things to Do on Norfolk Island
Norfolk Island is full of surprises.
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Emily Bay
Norfolk Island
Norfolk Island may only be 8 kilometres long and 5 kilometres wide, but you’ll always find a new spot to explore.
Swim at beaches trimmed with golden sand or explore charming stone cottages and walks through lush green meadows and towering pines. There’s no other destination quite like Norfolk Island, and all a short flight from mainland Australia. Find out more in our travel guide.
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Places to stay
Natural beauty is what brings travellers to these shores, and no matter where on the island you find yourself, you’re in for a scenic treat. The township of Burnt Pine is perched in the middle of the island, and from here you can travel just about anywhere within a 15-minute drive along country lanes.
Choose your base and explore the island from the independence of a self-contained holiday apartment or the charm of a historic cottage. Experience local hospitality with a homestay through Airbnb.
Things to do
Surrounded by miles of sandy coast, on Norfolk Island you’ll never be too far from an ocean lookout or a stroll to the sea.
You can't beat a swim or snorkel through the sparkling waters of Emily BayOpens in a new tab or window, one of Australia’s clearest beaches protected by coral reef and home to an abundance of underwater life. Board a glass bottom boat tour or venture further into the blue with a deep-sea fishing charter.
Take your pick of uncrowded hiking trails that criss-cross the island among the soaring Norfolk pines and Moreton Bay figs of the Norfolk Island National ParkOpens in a new tab or window Walk over rolling green hills, and rugged cliffs offering expansive views across the island and waters beyond - and be sure to keep an eye out for the unique birdlife, dolphins and migrating whales that pass by.
Dive into a rich history of Polynesian seafarers, convict past and Pitcairn Islander history at one of the many museums on the island, and visit the meticulously maintained convict settlement at KingstonOpens in a new tab or window and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area, also home to the world’s only golf course on a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Where to go
From green meadows and blooming gardens to Pacific sunsets that stop you in your tracks, Norfolk Island is steeped in history and rich with seasonal flavours. Out to sea, the rusty-orange cliffs of Phillip Island stand as a wild and beautiful neighbour, best admired from our own headlands. Here, days can be filled with gentle discovery – or none at all. Bring a book, sink into the serenity, and let the closest beach become your whole world for a while.
Food and drink
This is the land of rich volcanic soil, deep-sea fishing, and paddock-to-plate dining, where meals are as much a part of the journey as the scenery. Savour a locally brewed Guava Berry beer at Norfolk Island Brewery or stop by Salty’s Beer Garden for freshly caught trumpeter fish, served with a sea breeze. For a true no-miles-food experience, book a table at Homestead, where chef Kurt creates seasonal menus straight from the island’s land and sea.
When it’s time to slow down, pick up picnic provisions from Slick & Sons and settle in at Puppy's Point - where the ocean puts on a show that’s best enjoyed with good food and unhurried company.
Getting around
From the airport: Collect your bags, wave to the locals, and choose your ride – hire cars are available right at the terminal, and many accommodation providers offer transfers to make things easy. A small taxi service operates at certain times if you prefer to be driven.
Around the island: There’s no public transport here – just winding country lanes and plenty of scenery. A hire car is the simplest way to explore at your own pace but remember to drive with care; cows and chickens have right of way. If you’re feeling energetic, hop on a bike or take to the walking tracks for a slower, more scenic view of island life.
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Disclaimer: ^ Qantas Frequent Flyer members will earn 3 Qantas Points per A$1 value unless otherwise specified, for hotel stays booked through qantas.com/hotels, except Classic Hotel Rewards and Airbnb bookings. Points Club members will earn 25% more Qantas Points, and Points Club Plus members will earn 50% more Qantas Points. Qantas Points will be credited to your account at least 8 weeks after check-out. Qantas Points may be earned by the member in whose name the booking is made. Members will not be able to earn points on additional charges paid to the accommodation provider for extras (including cots, breakfasts and other incidentals) on check-in or check-out (as applicable).
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Disclaimer: + The number of destinations is correct as of 6 May 2025, subject to change. Some routes are subject to regulatory and government approval.
Disclaimer: #You must be a member of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn and redeem Qantas Points. A joining fee may apply. Membership and Qantas Points are subject to the Qantas Frequent Flyer program terms and conditions.