Lord Howe Island is an erratically crescent-shaped island that is located in the Tasman Sea just between Australia and New Zealand. Lord Howe Island Group consists of 28 islands, rocks, and islets. Can you imagine going snorkeling at a secluded cove as the sun sets over the warm sea while interacting with dazzlingly colored fish as they swarming the coral beds and the sea floor below? That’s what you’ll experience here at Lord Howe Island or as the locals would like to call “Last Paradise”. With over 15 beaches around the main island’s coastline, the hardest decision that you would have to make will be where would you go for the day. That’s why in this article, we are going to list down the best beaches in Lord Howe Island to help you ease the stress of making that decision.
The Lagoon
The Lagoon offers a pristine stretch of sand that is completely empty and ready for exploring. If you want to have a peaceful and relaxing snorkeling experience, then we recommend The Lagoon for you. You can even go have a private picnic on the beach and watch the sunset over the clear and calm ocean.
Ned’s Beach
Once you’ve step foot on this beach, we assure you that it will be one of your favorite spots on Lord Howe Island too. You will find yourself visiting this island several times a day just to witness the incredible underwater life and just relax on the fine white sand beach. But the real attraction here is when you go snorkeling and head out to the edge of the reef where you might spot a glimpse of clown-fish, doubleheader wrasse, turtles, and even some small Galapagos shark. Make sure that you’re wearing the right snorkeling gear so that you will have a smooth and comfortable snorkeling experience.
Old Settlement Beach
Old Settlement Beach is a spot in Lord Howe Island that is quietly tucked away at the Northern end of Lagoon road. This beach is famous for being the best spot to swim with turtles, that’s why you should bring the perfect snorkeling mask and your underwater camera to take pictures with the turtles while you’re snorkeling. Old Settlement Beach offers an unforgettable snorkeling experience that is worth sharing with the world. Plus, after you’re done snorkeling and exploring the seagrass beds, you can cook some barbecue at the beach while looking at the sunset, we’re sure that it is an experience you will never forget.
North Bay
This spot is only accessible by an hour-long hike or via boat or kayak. But we assure you all the trouble will be worth it when you witness North Bay’s beauty and you’ll find out why this is one of Lord Howe Island’s secluded gems. North Bay is a perfect spot for snorkeling and as well as exploring the bird life. We highly recommend that you should include North Bay in your itinerary when you’re in Lord Howe Island. But keep in mind that the track to Mt. Eliza, the island’s best view, is closed from September to March because of the Sooty Tern nesting season.
Middle Beach
If you want a change from the usually calm waters and the golden sand of Lord Howe Island’s beaches, then you should head on down to Middle Beach. It is located on the windy Eastern side of the island and it has a rocky shoreline. But it has clear waters where you will be able to see the amazing underwater life. Just remember to bring a prescription snorkeling mask if you have poor eyesight because as we mentioned earlier, this spot is kind of rocky and you would want to see very clearly underwater.
Lover’s Bay
Lover’s Bay offers a little patch of fine golden sand and a grassy picnic area that is nestled between two pine trees. This spot is perfect for those who are looking for a private hideaway on Lord Howe Island. Not only that, but it also offers a perfect snorkeling experience especially if you want to swim with the thousands of fish that you can find playing under the water’s surface. Lover’s Bay is an absolute secluded bliss that you should experience when you’re in Lord Howe Island.