Lord Howe Island Marine Park

Lord Howe Island Marine Park is a pristine aquatic wonderland surrounding the crescent-shaped Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This marine park protects some of the world's most southerly coral reefs, crystal-clear lagoons, and dramatic underwater cliffs. With visibility often exceeding 30 metres, it's a paradise for snorkellers, divers, and kayakers seeking untouched marine life.

Highlights & What to See

• Snorkel the Lagoon at Ned's Beach – Wade in from the sandy shore and be surrounded by schools of kingfish, silver drummer, and friendly trevally that will swim right up to you. The calm, shallow waters are perfect for beginners.
• Dive Balls Pyramid – The world's tallest sea stack (562 metres) rises from the ocean 23 km southeast of the island. Advanced divers can explore its sheer walls, caves, and rare deep-sea corals, often spotting Galapagos whalers and manta rays.
• Kayak to the Admiralty Islands – Paddle across the clear lagoon to these small, uninhabited islets, where you can beach your kayak and explore secluded coves or spot nesting seabirds.
• Glass-Bottom Boat Tours – A great option for non-snorkellers, these tours reveal the vibrant coral gardens and colourful fish without getting wet. Many also include a visit to the historic Kentia palm plantation.
• Birdwatching at Muttonbird Point – During summer months, thousands of wedge-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds) return to their burrows at dusk – a dramatic spectacle best viewed from this headland.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors allocate at least 3 to 4 days to explore the marine park thoroughly. Spend your first day snorkelling the lagoon and taking a glass-bottom boat tour. Dedicate a second day to a boat trip out to Balls Pyramid (full-day excursion) or kayaking around the Admiralty Islands. A third day allows for a bushwalk on the island itself, combining marine and terrestrial experiences. If you're an avid diver, consider a week-long stay to access the more remote dive sites.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Lord Howe Island – The island itself offers stunning hikes like Mount Gower and Mount Lidgbird, as well as the Kentia palm forests and the historical museum.
• Port Macquarie – On the mainland, this coastal town has beautiful beaches, a koala hospital, and the Sea Acres Rainforest Centre.
• Coffs Harbour – Known for the Big Banana, the Solitary Islands Marine Park, and excellent surfing beaches.
• Forster-Tuncurry – A twin-town area with the Great Lakes Marine Park, ideal for fishing, dolphin cruises, and boating.
• Myall Lakes National Park – A vast system of lakes and waterways perfect for kayaking, birdwatching, and bushwalking.

Please check official sources for current details.