Bushwalking Norfolk Island National Park has 9 signposted walking tracks that wind through lush palm forests and stands of Norfolk Island pine. Some lead visitors to remarkable views of the island and the surrounding ocean. Norfolk Island is rich in flora and fauna with over 40 species of plants and animals unique to the island. Ask about the walks at the Tourist Information Centre.
Diving and Snorkelling Norfolk and its outer islands, Nepean and Phillip, offer a range of diving opportunities for all levels of ability, with over 30 dive sites accessible either from shore or by boat. The underwater terrain is dominated by caves, swim-throughs, arches and walls of volcanic origin, covered with hard corals and other colourful marine life. Divers and snorkellers will appreciate the 20-metre plus visibility and the possibility of meeting pelagic sharks, bull and eagle rays, moray eels, gropers, kingfish, trevally and huge schools of smaller fish.
Scenic Emily Bay is a protected swimming and snorkelling beach, just wonderful for families.
Glass-bottom Boats Glass-bottom boats are a great way for the whole family to admire the reefs and fish-life. Several tour companies offer glass-bottom boat cruises around the lovely Emily Bay including lunch and snacks.
Horse Riding Horse riding is a fantastic way to experience the beautiful forests and coastal scenery of Norfolk Island. A commercial horse riding tour operator runs horseback tours for beginners and experienced riders.
You can also sit back and enjoy a leisurely carriage ride on the Carousel Horse and Carriage Tour where two huge Clydesdales take you around some of the most stunning scenery on the island.
Island Discovery Tours Several tour companies offer fun and informative tours of Norfolk Island. Various sightseeing tours will allow you to explore convict ruins, islander culture and the island's many natural attractions.
Museums Norfolk Island has preserved its history with the original convict settlement of Kingston, photographic displays, natural history and a large collection of memorabilia. The Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area has four museums in historic buildings portraying life in the old convict settlement.
Other Museums are the Bounty Folk Museum, which has the largest collection of memorabilia, the Lions Club Photographic display, the Museum of Natural History and The South Pacific Display Centre.
Fishing Norfolk's small population means the surrounding waters are still brimming with abundant fish life. Huge ocean currents swinging from the equator and across from Australia bring a rich array of baitfish that are hunted by tuna, kingfish, mahi mahi, wahoo, bonito and marlin, all using the Island as a pit stop.
There are four commercial fishing tour operators on the island and they provide regular tours to the rock shelf surrounding Norfolk Island to give visitors the opportunity to experience deep-sea fishing.
Golf The picturesque Norfolk Island Golf Course is superbly situated between the rugged coastline and the delightful manicured grounds of Government House. The clubhouse is a beautifully restored Georgian home from the convict era where visitors can enjoy a drink and a bite to eat after - or during - a round. Norfolk Island also has a mini golf course that's great for children.
Top TEN Things To Do
- Take the family to see the Mutiny of the Bounty re-enacted.
- Spend an afternoon bushwalking and watch the sun go down from a spectacular viewpoint.
- Shopping is also an attraction not to be missed – it is duty free. Perfumes, Lego, Barbie, stereo gear and surf gear for the kids are all items to look out for.
- Learn about the people and history of Norfolk Island on a cultural tour.
- Take a horse and carriage ride around the island.
- Take part in a feast at a Theme Dinner – the local food is delicious.
- Go on a glass-bottom boat cruise around Emily Bay.
- Hunt for big game fish on a fishing expedition.
- Go horse riding through the pine forests.
- Explore Norfolk Islands convict era museums.
Events
Norfolk Island Food and Wine Fiesta – Held annually in February, the Food and Wine Fiesta features a week of daily wine tasting and special lunches and dinners at some of Norfolk’s finest restaurants.
Country Music Festival – Country music lovers will have a ball at Norfolk’s Country Music Festival. The festival takes place over 5 days in May, with country musicians from Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific Islands putting on performances and throwing hoedown parties every night!
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