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Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla)
Norfolk Island pine (Araucaria heterophylla) - Photo by Nik Shuliahin

Explore the History and Beauty of Norfolk Island: A Traveler's Guide

About Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island, an Australian territory, offers stunning natural beauty, rich history, and a unique cultural experience. Explore the island's pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and scenic cliff-top vistas. Learn about its fascinating history as a penal colony and home to descendants of the Bounty mutineers. Don't miss out on the island's delicious cuisine and friendly locals.

Norfolk Island is a small and beautiful island in the Pacific Ocean, located between Australia and New Zealand. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and laid-back atmosphere, making it a perfect travel destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the most appealing aspects of Norfolk Island is its pristine natural environment. The island is home to lush rainforests, rolling hills, and pristine beaches, providing visitors with a wide range of outdoor activities to enjoy. Whether you're interested in hiking, swimming, or simply soaking up the sun, Norfolk Island has something for everyone.

In addition to its natural beauty, Norfolk Island also has a rich and fascinating history. The island was first settled by Polynesians over 1,000 years ago, and was later colonized by the British in the late 18th century. Today, visitors can explore the island's many historic sites and learn about its unique cultural heritage, including its blend of Polynesian and British influences.

Despite its small size, Norfolk Island has a thriving arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore the island's many art galleries and boutiques, which showcase the work of local artists and craftspeople. The island is also home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, including the popular Norfolk Island Country Music Festival.

Overall, Norfolk Island is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. With its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant arts and culture scene, it has something to offer everyone. So if you're looking for a truly unique travel experience, be sure to add Norfolk Island to your list of must-see destinations.

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Popular Stays in Norfolk Island

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in Norfolk Island

Things to do in Norfolk Island

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in Norfolk Island

Pinetree Tours Island Fish Fry is the Original Fish Fry on Norfolk Island. The combination of delicious food, live music, and breathtaking views is why this event has become so popular in the 40 years of operation. Guests can indulge in local dishes, salads, and homemade coconut bread, paired with mouth-watering fried fish, while sipping on their drink of choice. The new clifftop bar area offers stunning sunset views, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a drink and live music. The Baunti Byuutis dancing group provides captivating local performances that add to the festive atmosphere of the event. The Island Fish Fry promises an unforgettable night on the island, where visitors can experience the local culture and cuisine in a unique and memorable way.
Where else in the world do you get invited into the local homes for dinner? Our Progressive Dinner takes guests on a journey through the vibrant community, where they'll visit three different family homes to enjoy authentic home-cooked meals while learning about the island's rich culture and history from their hosts. The option to bring your own drinks, along with white wine and juice provided, ensures guests can relax and enjoy the company of fellow travelers as they dine in some of the island's most charming and picturesque homes. The tour promises an unforgettable night of food, fun, and unforgettable stories, making it a unique and memorable experience.
The Breakfast Bushwalk & Clifftop BBQ Tour on Norfolk Island is a combination of adventure, nature, and delicious food. The tour offers guests a choice between a leisurely stroll through the lush Palm Glen Reserve or a more upbeat 3.5 km walk through scenic Mt. Bates to the Captain Cook Monument. Along the way, visitors can take in breathtaking views of the coastline and learn about the island's rich history. After the walk, guests can join the BBQ on the clifftop for a delicious breakfast with mouth-watering food and stunning views. For those who are unable to participate in the walks, they can still enjoy the festivities and share in the experience at Captain Cook Monument. The tour is perfect for adventurers of all levels, making it a unique and memorable experience for everyone.
Baunti Tours welcomes you to beautiful Norfolk Island. We are Norfolk’s most comprehensive Tour Company and Booking Agent. We meet all clients at the airport upon arrival and our knowledgeable, local driver will be waiting for you outside Customs at the Baunti Tours Desk. Simply give him/her your name and then hop on the brand new Baunti Tours coach, then be transported directly to your accommodation. Included is a 3 hour Discover Norfolk Island Tour which will immerse you in life and living on Norfolk, including our history, culture, food, nature, government, and art and industry. We will help you get the most from your Norfolk Island holiday. We look forward to showing you around!
The Norfolk Island tour of the Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area (KAVHA) is a unique experience as it offers an immersive journey through time, taking visitors back to the colonial era. The tour is led by expert guides who provide insightful and captivating stories, providing a firsthand experience of the intriguing past of this World Heritage Listed Georgian settlement. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore various historical sites, each with its own unique story to tell. The tour also includes a lovely morning or afternoon tea, providing an opportunity for visitors to relax and reflect on the historical significance of the sites they have just explored. By the end of the tour, visitors will have gained a deep understanding of the history of Norfolk Island's convict past and the Georgian settlement that remains today. Overall, the tour offers an educational and engaging experience, making it a must-do activity for anyone interested in history and culture.
The Norfolk Island Ghost Tour is a unique experience because it combines several elements to create a thrilling and unforgettable evening. Firstly, the tour takes place on a historic island with a rich and dark past, adding an element of intrigue and mystery. Secondly, the tour takes place at night, creating a spooky and atmospheric setting for the ghostly tales to be told. Thirdly, the tour includes a delicious dinner in a beautiful Georgian building, adding an element of luxury and refinement to the experience. Finally, the tour is led by an expert guide who is knowledgeable about the island's haunted past and can provide chilling accounts of ghostly apparitions, tragic events, and mysterious happenings. All of these elements come together to create an immersive and unforgettable experience that is perfect for thrill-seekers and anyone interested in the supernatural
Your walk will take you through diverse habitats from rain forest to clifftops, between enormous pines and white-woods and surrounded by seabirds. While the topography is hilly, the pace is relaxed and our guides cater to a range of fitness levels. Your efforts will be richly rewarded by a delicious barbeque breakfast with all the trimmings, which awaits. Learn about our flora and fauna and see some of our 40 endemic species of plants and birds. For those that just want to join us for breakfast come along! We will relax and meet up with the others for breakfast.
A 3 course dinner in Norfolk Island homes. See how the locals live and hear their stories. A truly unique experience. All local produce is used to prepare your dinner, taste the freshness and difference.

Why People Love Norfolk Island

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in Norfolk Island

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Amanda D
2
Apr 2023
So I had heard that the fish fry was a wonderful experience. Firstly the seating area is like a big noisy barn. We had excellent weather and I thought they they would seat us outside with a view! Secondly you go to buy a glass of wine and you get cheap wine in a really cheap disposable cup. The ...
S
slinky1100
5
Feb 2023
Came here to have an easy dinner and chat to a few fellow travellers. It was a fun night. The food was good, loved the fish in particular which was Trumpeter. There were some local specialities: pilhi and a couple of banana dishes - note: the bananas here taste different than the ones you get in ...
2
2aussietravellers61
5
Nov 2022
This was a wonderful night. Seated at long tables undercover we had a great night watching the sun set behind the clouds. The food was delicious, the fish was lightly battered and tasty inside, plenty of salads, some local food to try and dessert was a yummy coconut pie. We were entertained by Tr...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Norfolk Island

What are some must-see attractions in Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island offers a range of attractions for visitors to explore. For history buffs, the Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area is a must-visit site. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Norfolk Island's past, including its role as a penal colony. Other popular attractions include Emily Bay, a picturesque beach that offers opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, and the Norfolk Island National Park, which offers scenic walking trails and stunning views of the island's rugged coastline.

What are some popular activities on Norfolk Island?

In addition to visiting the island's many historical sites and attractions, there are plenty of activities to enjoy on Norfolk Island. Some of the most popular include bushwalking and hiking, fishing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also take part in cultural experiences, such as attending a hula dancing or ukulele lesson, or learning about the island's unique language and customs.

What are some recommended accommodations in Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island offers a range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Some popular options include the Governor's Lodge Resort Hotel, which offers comfortable rooms and suites set amidst beautiful gardens, and the Paradise Hotel and Resort, which offers spacious self-contained apartments and studios. Other recommended accommodations include the South Pacific Resort Hotel, which features a swimming pool and tennis court, and the Cumberland Resort and Spa, which offers luxurious apartments with spa baths and private balconies.

What are some family-friendly activities on Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island offers a range of family-friendly activities that are sure to keep kids of all ages entertained. Some popular options include visiting the island's many historical sites and attractions, such as the Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area, and taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and snorkeling. Families can also enjoy cultural experiences, such as attending a hula dancing or ukulele lesson, or taking part in a traditional island feast.

What are some romantic things to do on Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island is a beautiful and romantic destination, with plenty of things for couples to see and do. Some popular options include taking a sunset cruise around the island, enjoying a picnic on the beach, or taking a romantic hike through the island's scenic countryside. Couples can also relax at one of the island's many spas, or enjoy a candlelit dinner at one of the island's many excellent restaurants.

What is the best time of year to visit Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island has a mild and pleasant climate year-round, with temperatures rarely dropping below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the best time to visit the island is during the summer months, which run from December to February. This is when the island is at its warmest and sunniest, and when most of the island's events and festivals take place.

What are some outdoor activities to enjoy on Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of activities to enjoy amidst the island's beautiful scenery. Some popular options include bushwalking and hiking, fishing, and snorkeling. Visitors can also take part in outdoor yoga classes or enjoy a round of golf at the island's scenic golf course. And for the more adventurous, there are opportunities for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and even paragliding!

What are some cultural experiences to enjoy on Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island is a unique and fascinating destination, with a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. Some popular cultural experiences include attending a hula dancing or ukulele lesson, learning about the island's unique language and customs, and taking part in a traditional island feast. Visitors can also enjoy the island's many festivals and events, such as the Bounty Day celebrations in June and the Norfolk Island Food Festival in November.

What is the food like on Norfolk Island?

Norfolk Island has a rich culinary heritage, with a range of delicious dishes that reflect the island's unique cultural blend. Some popular local foods include salted fish, yams, and pawpaws, as well as a range of fresh seafood. Visitors can also enjoy a range of international cuisines, from Italian and Mexican to Thai and Indian. And for those with a sweet tooth, the island is famous for its delicious pineapple and banana cakes!

What is the local currency in Norfolk Island?

The official currency of Norfolk Island is the Australian dollar (AUD). Visitors can exchange their currency at the airport or at one of the island's many banks or currency exchange offices. Credit cards are widely accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it's always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases or for use at local markets and food stalls.