What is Norfolk Island famous for?
There is no doubt that Norfolk Island is a unique destination and aside from its incredible beauty, there are a number of interesting reasons Norfolk Island stands out from the rest.
1. Descendants of the Bounty Mutineers
More descendants of Fletcher Christian than anywhere else in the world
Norfolk is home to the famed descendants of the Polynesian women and Bounty Mutineers who originally settled on Pitcairn Island. After outgrowing Pitcairn, the community made up of 8 family groupings relocated to Norfolk in 1856. Owner of NITC, Mat Christan-Bailey, is a seventh-generation descendant of Fletcher Christan.
2. Convict Colony
The resting place of Australia’s most important shipwreck, flagship of the First Fleet HMS Sirius
Norfolk was home to two penal settlements. During the first, the Island became home to many ‘First Fleeters’. Then, after 1825 the poor convict souls living here endured ‘punishment just short of death’ simply trying to survive life.
3. Norfolk Island Pine
Home to endemic Araucaria heterophylla, or as you may know it, the Norfolk Pine
Norfolk Island Pine's were sighted by Capt. James Cook in 1774 when he noted they would be perfect for masts and yards for sailing ships. It was later found that they were not resilient enough for this use. Today, the Norfolk Pine can be found around the world, particularly coastal areas, due to its ability to grow in sand and high tolerance for salt and wind - making it the perfect seaside tree.
4. Norfolk Cows
Moooove over because the free-range cows on Norfolk Island have right of way
These friendly four-legged grass-mowers have been an integral part of Norfolk’s culture and also add to a relaxed atmosphere as you drive around the island. Sightings of young calves are delightful with their doe long-lashed eyes!
5. Colleen McCullough
Colleen McCullough and her convict ancestor “Morgan’s Run” both lived here
The world-renowned author Colleen McCullough, made Norfolk home in 1979 and stayed until her passing in 2015. Here you can book an exclusive guided tour to the author’s magnificent property.
6. Emily Bay
The very same one named in Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Top 10 Beaches
Summer + Norfolk Island = Emily Bay. This stunning beach has it all. Emily Bay is a unique gem. This is the perfect place for families to safely and easily enjoy a Norfolk Island summer holiday.
7. Unique Phone Book
Where you can search by nick-name in the local phone book
Check out the The Faasfain (fast find) section of the Norfolk Island phone book. Islanders are so much more familiar with each other’s nicknames rather than their long forgotten birth names. Updated every three years.
8. Thanksgiving
The only place in the South Pacific that celebrates Thanksgiving Day
Norfolk Island is one of the few places outside of America to celebrate Thanksgiving Day, an influence left from the American whaling ships who would frequently visit during the late 1800’s. Families traditionally attend a Church service followed by a family lunch full of traditional Norf'k wetls (local food).
9. Fishing
Fishing, or as the locals call it ‘catching’
With a 50sq Norfolk Marine Park seclusion zone around the Island, no commercial fishing allowed and deep water right at our doorstep, Norfolk Island is an undiscovered game fishing paradise.
10. Norfolk Island Golf Course
As seen in Golf Australia’s 60 best 9-hole courses in Australia
Play golf on Norfolk Island and you’ll find one of the most friendly and social clubs with a course bordered by the South Pacific Ocean and set within historic Kingston, a World Heritage listed site. Often described as one of the most beautiful locations for a course, its not hard to understand why its such an attraction.
Whether you visit Norfolk by yourself, with family or friends, or as part of an organised (or your own) group trip, make sure to use the knowledge available from local travel agents, tour operators and visitor information services all located on the island. ‘Meeting the locals’ really is part of a Norfolk Island experience, so make sure to do so even before you travel. You’ll surely find much more than you expected on a Norfolk Island holiday!
By booking your Norfolk Island holiday package, events, accommodation, tours and attractions with us, you are assured expert advice and a great deal from a passionate local. Contact us today
Hot Deals - valid for selected travel dates up until 31 March 2025
Trade Winds Country Cottages
Country-style cottages sit on extensive gardens that grow fresh produce available for guest use, Trade Winds Country Cottages offer the perfect island and country escape combined.
Crest Apartments
SAVE $700* – includes flights, car 2 tours & high tea!
Apartment-style accommodation with stunning ocean views right from your front door.
Glencar Luxury Villas
Includes flights, luxury car, welcome platter, unlimited Wi-Fi & exclusive tour!
Awe-inspiring views of Mount Pitt and the ocean, plus your own private plunge pool.
Christian’s of Bucks Point
SAVE $1840* – includes flights, car, welcome wine, breakfast items & 2 tours!
This 3-bedroom heritage home will be exclusively yours during your stay.
Governor’s Lodge
SAVE $565* – includes flights, breakfast, car, free Wi-Fi, 2 tours & BONUS High Tea!
Resort-style property with standalone cabins, swimming pool & 3 on-site dining venues.
Ocean Breeze Cottages
SAVE $580* – includes flights, car & 4 tours!
Uninterrupted views of the ocean and World Heritage Listed Kingston.
The White House
Located in the prestigious Buck’s Point area, this Presidential, 5-bedroom, 3.5 bathroom hillside ocean view spa villa is for your Exclusive Indulgence – no other guests or neighbours.
