Sir David Attenborough said it best, “ Lord Howe Island is so extraordinary it is almost unbelievable … few islands, surely, can be so accessible, so remarkable, yet so unspoilt.” It’s one of those places where you still can’t believe it’s real, whether it’s your first or thirteenth visit. The volcanic remnant remains largely untouched, boasting clear waters thriving with unique marine life, majestic Banyan Tree forests, and friendly locals. Only 400 people are allowed on the island at a time, with a total of 300 locals living on the tiny outcrop in the Pacific Ocean.
Visitors can hike volcanic remnants, wade into the water, feed the friendly locals at Ned’s Beach, or lap up a luxury villa overlooking a turquoise lagoon. Whatever you decide, be sure to book one of these incredible villas and resorts for your stay.
Capella Lodge
At the top of our list is Capella Lodge, part of the iconic Baillie Lodges portfolio. Here, you get the ultimate castaway experience. There are only nine villas, so demand is high, and you need to book well in advance, although it’s worth it. Each villa is designed to reflect its natural environment, a law on the island for any accommodation. Inside, guests will have floor-to-ceiling windows framing the ever-changing views of the ocean and mountains, complemented by bleached timbers, bespoke furnishings, island-themed textiles and specially commissioned artworks. The highlight is the private deck with a plunge pool overlooking Mt Gower.
Island House
Island House offers guests the chance to have their own home on Lord Howe Island, even if only for a few nights. In fact, Chris Hemsworth and his family stayed here, and since then, the accommodation has been inundated with bookings. Two pavilion-style houses can accommodate up to eight guests in a private setting surrounded by Kentia Palms. The home is constructed of hardwood and copper with fully oak-lined interiors—the pinnacle of island living. Relish in copper baths, large timber decks, Cheminee fireplaces, and four-metre-high ceilings. You might not want to leave the Island House by the end of it. A true home away from home.
Arajilla Retreat
This small eco-retreat is nestled behind Old Settlement Beach and wedged between a banyan tree forest. It’s one of the most well-known properties on the island, and despite newcomers, Arajilla Retreat still sets the standard for island living. With 12 suites to choose from, guests will find spacious villas dressed in neutral shades, each with a private deck. The retreat offers easy access to hikes, lagoons, and deserted beaches. The restaurant on-site serves the freshest catch of the day, which you will find is a staple on the island. You’d be hard-pressed to find a chef on the island who didn’t catch his own seafood for the day. The property is also home to a day spa, offering pampering treatments that use a combination of Ayurvedic actions and Ayurda Ayurvedic Skin Care products sourced from the Himalayan Mountains.
Howeana
Ned’s Beach is one of the island’s highlights and is certainly one of our favourites. At Ned’s Beach, the fish come right up to shore, and visitors can feed them with food from an honesty box in the shed. One of the best places to base yourself for this hidden gem is Howeana, a sheltered and secluded beach house perfectly placed in the heart of the settlement area, within easy reach of Ned’s Beach, Lagoon, cafes, shops and bars. An oasis of calm and restful relaxation, the generous, light-filled interiors open out onto sun-dappled decks, where you can relish in island time.
Bowker Beach House
Bowker Bech House sits opposite the iconic blue lagoon, with easy access to the town’s main street, hiking trails, and beaches. The home sleeps two and is exclusively private, offering guests the chance to experience life on the island in the privacy of a well-designed home. You enter via a boardwalk surrounded by foreshore forest. The outside shower is great for rinsing off the salt water, and the sun lounges will have you soaking up the ocean air in no time. There are bikes for an easy ride into town to pick up the essentials, but breakfast is supplied daily. Snorkelling gear, single and double kayaks, and beach chairs are available for guests.
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