Norfolk Island offers a wealth of activities for families to enjoy together, combining adventure, nature, and history in one unique destination.
- Emily Bay:
The calm, shallow waters of Emily Bay are ideal for families looking to swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the sandy shores. This protected lagoon is safe and inviting for young children, and there are plenty of opportunities for water play and exploration. In the summer season, a yellow raft floats in the centre of the bay, ideal for jumping, diving and exploring. - Rock Pools and Nature Reserves:
The island’s natural rock pools are a fantastic place for children to explore marine life up close. Take a family walk through one of the island’s scenic reserves, where you can spot native wildlife like the Norfolk Island Green Parrot, or enjoy a picnic surrounded by lush greenery. - Interactive Historical Tours:
Step back in time with the family-friendly Convict Settlement Tour, where children can engage with interactive stories and reenactments that bring history to life. Learn about the island’s past through fun and educational experiences. - The Toy Shop:
Visit the charming local toy shop, a hit with kids of all ages. With an array of trending toys, including Duty-Free Lego, plus locally crafted gifts, this shop is perfect for family browsing. It’s a great place to pick up a unique souvenir and enjoy the joy of discovering something special together. - Museums:
Norfolk Island is rich in history, and its museums provide a fascinating glimpse into the past. The Norfolk Island Museum is a must-see, with its collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the island’s unique history, including its convict days and the arrival of the Pitcairn Islanders. It’s an engaging, educational experience for both children and adults. - Wildlife Spotting:
Norfolk Island is a paradise for wildlife lovers. From guided birdwatching tours to spontaneous wildlife encounters, the whole family can enjoy spotting unique animals in their natural habitats. - Glass Bottom Boat Tours:
Take the family on a Glass Bottom Boat Tour for an unforgettable look at the island’s vibrant marine life without getting wet. This is a fantastic way to introduce children to the underwater world, with colorful fish, coral, and even sea turtles visible right from the boat. - Shark Feeding & Turtle Spotting: When the seas are calm, local fishermen head out on the water for a busy day of fishing. Once they return to Kingston or Cascade Pier, they begin filleting their catch, discarding fish carcasses into the water. This attracts a thrilling shark feeding frenzy that’s sure to captivate the whole family! It’s an unforgettable spectacle, with sharks circling and vying for the scraps. The waters around the piers are also home to resident turtles, so keep your eyes peeled – you may be lucky enough to spot one gliding by. Don’t forget to bring some bread to toss into the water, and watch as schools of fish eagerly surface to feed. It’s an exciting, interactive experience that kids will love and remember!
- The Salty Beer Garden: With space to play, the kids love this indoor/outdoor dining area with a kids menu. They’ll soon meet lots of local kids and join in the fun.
With its safe, family-friendly atmosphere and a range of engaging activities, Norfolk Island is the perfect destination for making lasting memories with your loved ones.
