When is the best time to visit Norfolk Island?
This handy guide will help you decide when is the best time to visit Norfolk Island for the best weather, flights, activities and special events.
In short answer, Norfolk Island is a wonderful place to visit year-round and the ‘best time to visit’ is largely a personal preference. Depending on what type of holiday you want whether a relaxing summer escape by the beach, an active getaway to join an international sporting competition or a family reunion during the school holidays, Norfolk will provide. It’s quite remarkable that Norfolk can cater to so many types of travellers and still keep its laid back island vibe. What you quickly discover about Norfolk Island, is that there are plenty of attractions of world class quality - which only the lucky ones who travel discover. While most of the world grapples with over-tourism, Norfolk Island remains in that ‘sweet spot’. And the travellers that do make the ‘over-the-seas trip’ quickly become repeat visitors.
Norfolk Island Weather
With a marine subtropical climate, Norfolk Island enjoys a comfortable climate year round. The warmest months are January and February and many travellers from Australia love the summer months. While the temperatures on paper may seem quite mild, the island can be humid during these months, so keep that in mind. Beautiful balmy summer nights on Norfolk Island are perfect for early evening swims; Spring and Autumn are perfect for clear skies with lovely mild days as you move away from, or towards, Winter. During Winter visitors can escape the frost of home with Norfolk temperatures described best as cooler rather than freezing. Some accommodation places have inbuilt fireplaces which are perfect to snuggle up and enjoy a platter of local cheeses, meats and produce.
Temperatures on Norfolk Island
January : 20°C – 25°C // February : 20°C – 25°C
March : 20°C – 24°C // April : 18°C – 22°C
May : 17°C – 21°C // June : 15°C – 19°C
July : 14°C – 18°C // August : 14°C – 18°C
September : 15°C – 19°C // October : 16°C – 20°C
November : 17°C – 24°C // December : 19°C – 24°C
Norfolk Island Busy Season
Norfolk Island's 'busy' season is from October to April. While you may find accommodation and flight availability is a littler harder to come by, or at a higher cost, we can still guarantee that you'll be able to find a spot of sand, or walking trail that you'll have all to yourself. We recommend the earlier you can lock in your travel dates the better to ensure you secure your favoured travel dates and accommodation at the best rates.
This period is also a great time to experience one of our Norfolk Island Events. Be sure to check these out to join in the fun!
Generally expect special event dates around Bounty Anniversary Day (8 June), Thanksgiving (last Wednesday in November), Christmas and Easter to be more popular.
Travel in Winter
One of the benefits of travelling in winter is that accommodation places often offer excellent deals such as ‘stay 7 pay 5 nights’. And while you won’t find humidity and higher temperatures, you’ll likely find many pleasant t-shirt-weather days when you’ll only reach for your jumper once the sun goes down.
Swimming and water activities happen all year round – that first dive in can be bracing but, together with the locals who swim year round, you’ll quickly enjoy the crystal clear waters and coral on display. Bring a 3mm wet suit for snorkelling if you prefer.
Key Events and Festivals in Norfolk Island
Luckily Norfolk Island has an event calendar which rivals even the busiest of socialites. This is another reflection of how social we are on this little island, with our community and culture both ingrained with a love of welcoming and playing host! As a locally owned and operated travel agency we are at the heart of many Norfolk Island events as we bring visitors to attend as well as sponsor or manage other events. You can see our full ‘What’s On’ calendar here.
Special days on Norfolk include Bounty (Anniversary) Day, Thanksgiving Day, Foundation Day and our Royal Agriculture & Horticultural Show Day.
Bounty Day - The anniversary of the arrival of the Pitcairners
On the 8th June 1856 the Morayshire arrived on Norfolk with the entire population from Pitcairn on board being re-located after outgrowing their tiny island home. This day became known as ‘Anniversary’ or ‘Bounty’ Day and it is celebrated every year by the Norfolk Island community as their National Day. With the islanders dressed in their traditional Bounty clothes a re-enactment of the landing at Kingston Pier occurs, followed by a procession through Kingston and whole of community picnic. The Bounty ball also occurs with kindy-aged to adults competing and dancing together.
Bounty Day is an extremely interesting and exciting time to be on Norfolk Island, but can also be a busy time to secure plane seats. Our Hot Tip is if you want to travel for Bounty Day, book early!
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
Staff in Travel Centre were very accommodating to our group. I have already recommended your travel centre to some friends!
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 $680 per couple if booked by 30 April 2024. The Crest Apartments occupies a prime position on an elevated 3 hectare block, looking out to Phillip Island and the Pacific Ocean.Â
Glencar Luxury Villas
Glencar Luxury Villas is the ultimate 5 star adults only property on Norfolk Island. With awe inspiring views over the countryside towards Mount Pitt and the ocean, these One Bedroom Villas are perfect for relaxation and escape from the every day.
Christian’s of Bucks Point
SAVE $1,770 per group of six if booked by 31 March 2024 and discover the rich history of this 3 bedroom heritage house.
Governor’s Lodge
Discover resort-style accommodation at Governor’s Lodge. Close to town and the sights of Kingston, yet set on 12 acres of subtropical gardens offering the perfect Norfolk Island escape.
Ocean Breeze Cottages
SAVE $560 per couple with this stay 7 nights, pay for 5* for travel between 01 June to 31 August 2024. Ideally located high in the centre of the island, these self-contained cottages have broad panoramic views. The property also has a tennis court and barbecue area and transit lounge for guests use.
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.
Aloha Apartments
Stay 7 nights at centrally located Aloha Apartments Norfolk Island. Relax and unwind in a fully self contained apartment that offers all the comforts and conveniences of home.
