Lord Howe Island, roughly 500 kilometres east of Port Macquarie on the north coast of New South Wales, is less than two hours by plane from either Brisbane or Sydney.
It is an island of natural forests, crystal clear water, pristine sand beaches, the world's southernmost coral reef, and a variety of bird and marine life, some of them rare and endangered species.
Because of its rare collection of flora and fauna and its exceptional natural beauty, Lord Howe Island was inscribed a World Heritage site in 1982.
Walk and climb
Lord Howe Island is 11 kilometres long and 2.5 kilometres wide. You can go around the island on foot or by bicycle (which you can rent on the island). There is a limited number of rental cars and motorcycles.
Mt Lidgbird (777 metres high) and Mt Gower (875 metres) rise from the southern end of the island. You can climb Mt Gower and return within half a day.
Marine life
You can go snorkeling in the reef-fringed lagoon or view the island's marine life from glass-bottom boats.
Camping
Camping is not allowed on the island.
Visitor limits
With an area of only 15 square kilometres, overnight visitor numbers are limited to 400 tourist beds at any one time. If visitors plan to stay one or more nights on the island, it is essential to have confirmed accommodation before buying a plane ticket.
The usual Lord Howe Island holiday package combines airfares, accommodation and airport transfers, and may include meals.
