How to get to Lord Howe Island

Lord Howe Island is a unique volcanic remnant in the Tasman Sea, administratively belonging to the state of New South Wales in Australia. This UNESCO World Heritage site attracts travellers with its pristine nature, rare bird species, and an atmosphere of complete seclusion, where only 400 tourists are permitted at any one time. Reaching Lord Howe Island is possible exclusively by air, making a trip here a truly exclusive adventure far removed from bustling metropolises.

The primary and practically sole method to reach this remote resort is via air travel. Regular flights to the island are operated from major Australian cities, such as Sydney and Brisbane, with the flight taking approximately two hours, offering passengers breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon and mountains upon descent.

Aircraft are received by the small Lord Howe Island Airport (LDH), situated in the central part of the land. Despite its modest size and short runway, this air harbour ensures a reliable connection with the mainland and serves as the main gateway to this protected world.

Since Lord Howe is an isolated island in the open ocean, railway connections are completely absent here. It is impossible to reach the destination by train from any city in Australia.

The railway network on the mainland may be useful to travellers only as a means to reach the international airports in Sydney or Brisbane. From there, you will invariably need to transfer to a plane to cross the expanse of water to the island.

Intercity bus service to the island is impossible due to its geographical position 600 kilometres from the coast. Buses do not run here from the mainland part of the country, and there are no ferry crossings provided for public transport.

If you are travelling around Australia by bus, you must reach the nearest major departure airport. On the island itself, public transport is practically non-existent, as distances here are very short and are easily covered on foot or by bicycle.

It is impossible to reach Lord Howe Island by private car or taxi, as automotive ferries do not operate from the mainland. The distance from the coast is too great for this type of transport, so vehicles must be left at the parking facilities of the departure airport.

On the island itself, the number of vehicles is strictly limited, and tourists are not permitted to import their own vehicles. The main mode of transport here is bicycles, which can be rented everywhere, contributing to the preservation of the region's unique ecology.

A trip to Lord Howe requires special planning, as it is not merely a resort but a strictly protected nature reserve. To ensure your holiday proceeds perfectly, please pay attention to the following recommendations:

1. Accommodation Booking: Due to the limit of 400 tourists allowed on the island simultaneously, accommodation and flights must be booked 6–12 months prior to the trip.
2. Clothing and Gear: The clothing style here is relaxed and informal (casual). Be sure to bring comfortable hiking shoes, a windbreaker for evening walks, and high-quality sunscreen.
3. Transport: The main method of movement is the bicycle. You can rent one at your hotel or rental points; there are very few cars here, and the speed limit is 25 km/h.
4. Connectivity and Internet: Be prepared for a digital detox. Mobile coverage can be unstable, and Wi-Fi is often paid or slow, allowing you to better enjoy nature.
5. Finances: The currency is the Australian Dollar (AUD). Cards are accepted in most places, but keeping some cash for small expenses is always useful.
6. Bio-security: Strict controls are conducted at the airport. It is prohibited to import fresh fruits, vegetables, plants, and dirty footwear (soil with seeds may be on the soles) so as not to disrupt the ecosystem.
7. Groceries and Dining: Food prices are higher than on the mainland due to logistics. Many tourists bring permitted food items with them in their luggage (within the allowable weight limits).
8. Nature: Never feed the fish (this is strictly prohibited in the marine park) and do not stray from marked trails to avoid damaging the burrows of nesting birds.

Observing these simple rules will help preserve the unique beauty of the island and make your stay in this corner of paradise in Australia unforgettable.