Places of interest
1 The Hilli Goat Farm This family-run farm provides visitors with an opportunity to experience Norfolk’s farm-to-table dining tradition. After meeting the goats and seeing the cheese-making process, visitors can enjoy freshly made goats’ cheese with a tasty spread of local food.
2 Anson Bay A lookout on the island’s north-west corner offers a great view of the pine tree-lined cliffs and surf crashing onto the beach at Anson Bay. Walking down to the beach is well worth the climb back up.
3 Norfolk Island National Park and Botanical Garden This 655ha protected area features a discovery centre and 8km of walking tracks. Many of the island’s endemic plants are found here, and you might be lucky and spot a Norfolk green parrot.
4 Cockpit Waterfall On the eastern side of Norfolk Island, Broken Bridge Creek runs down a valley into the scenic Cascade Reserve, where it fallsnto the ocean at Cockpit Waterfall.
5 St Barnabas Chapel Built by a Melanesian Mission that was headquartered on the island between 1866 and 1920, the chapel is surprisingly grand for such a small, isolated location. It features a soaring roof with beams that resemble those of a ship’s hull, as well as a pipe organ and stunning stained glass windows.
6 Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama This 360° panoramic painting, which was created by local artists, tells the story of the Norfolk Island people, many of whom are descendants of the infamous Bounty mutineers.
7 Kingston and Arthurs Vale Historic Area Located on a grassy plain in the island’s south, this World Heritage-listed precinct is the site of Norfolk’s colonial and convict settlements. Visitors can explore the convict-era buildings and ruins, including the prison compound and hospital, and wander through the cemetery, which features headstones dating back to 1789.
8 Crystal Pool At low tide and on a calm day, a rock pool emerges on Point Ross, offering another great place for a swim or snorkel.
9 Kingston Pier The longer of the island’s two piers, it offers great views of the reef spanning Slaughter Bay and a chance to watch fishermen craning boats from the water. When supply ships visit, watch the cargo being unloaded onto Norfolk’s iconic lighters. Ask at the information centre for a schedule of visiting ships.
10 Emily Bay Emily Bay is a perfect crescent of yellow sand. Sheltered from the surf by reef, its clear waters are the perfect place to swim, snorkel, kayak, or paddle. Picnic and BBQ facilities overlook the bay.
11 Phillip Island Located 6km south of Norfolk, Phillip is a tiny, uninhabited, protected area. Once overrun by pigs, goats, and rabbits, the island is now free of feral predators. Accessible via boat, it is home to rare plants and is a sanctuary for seabirds. The red and orange hues of the island make it a dramatic sight to behold from Norfolk.