Lord Howe Island, Remote island in New South Wales, Australia.
Lord Howe Island is a forested landmass in the Tasman Sea, located roughly 600 kilometers off the coast of New South Wales. The landform rises from the ocean with two distinct volcanic peaks, while its shores feature sandy beaches and shallow lagoons.
Lieutenant Henry Lidgbird Ball sighted the uninhabited landmass in February 1788 while returning from Norfolk Island to Sydney. Whalers began calling here from the 1830s onward to take on provisions, before permanent settlement began in the second half of the 19th century.
The island bears its name after Richard Howe, who served as First Lord of the Admiralty during the discovery voyage. Walkers today follow maintained trails through palm forests and observe birdlife that has grown accustomed to human presence.
Air services operate several times a week and bring visitors here in roughly two hours from the mainland. Guest numbers remain capped, so booking ahead is advisable, especially during the warmer months of the year.
The reefs here form the southernmost coral reef system on Earth and arise at the boundary between warm and cool ocean currents. At Ned's Beach, tame fish swim directly up to bathers and accept food from their hands.
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