Nature reigns supreme on Norfolk Island and in a single day you can experience rolling green hills, lofty sea cliffs, lagoon-fringed beaches and the majestic Norfolk Island pine forests. Unique plants and wildlife have evolved in this remote spot. Today the skies over our island are filled with the shrieks and cries of rare nesting seabirds and brightly plumed tropical parrots. Set off on a tour through the Norfolk Island National Park to meet our feathered residents and learn about some of the world’s most successful conservation projects.
Natural attractions on Norfolk Island
We believe strongly in protecting our unique and precious environment. You’ll find that much of our 35 square kilometres are designated as a national park or nature reserve. The Norfolk Island National Park is the epicentre of wildlife watching, where you can also walk under the tallest ferns on earth and take in the incredible 360° views from Mount Pitt. You can spend a morning in search of the 200-year-old Moreton Bay fig trees and then while away an afternoon exploring the rock pools of Bumboras Reserve.
Birds & wildlife on Norfolk Island
Whether you’re an avid bird watcher or don’t know your white terns from your wedge-tailed shearwaters, you’ll find Norfolk Island’s colourful birdlife utterly charming. Many of our 116 bird species are found nowhere else on earth. The most famous residents are the green parrots, the symbol of Norfolk Island. These feathery friends are a conservation success, having been brought back from the brink of extinction along with the Norfolk Island morepork owl, once the rarest bird in the world.
Top tips for experiencing nature on Norfolk Island
- Please don’t feed any of Norfolk Island’s birds as it can make them unwell. They exist on a natural diet of insects and plants which they find in abundance.
- Our birdlife is enchanting, but please resist the temptation to get too close to nesting areas. Pack a pair of binoculars or a long lens and enjoy the show from a safe distance.
- For an even wilder nature experience, head out to Phillip Island. This rugged island offers great hiking all year, with the chance to see breeding pairs of masked boobies between August and February.
- If you're short on time, our 3-Day Nature & Outdoors Itinerary gives you a healthy dose of fresh air and some of the best natural highlights Norfolk has to offer.