Lord Howe Island Marine Park

The marine park around the island protects the southernmost coral reef system on Earth, stretching about 3 miles from shore. It offers activities like snorkeling, scuba diving at roughly 50 different sites, and glass-bottom boat tours for viewing marine life.

The park was established in 1999 under state legislation to protect the island's unique marine environment. This decision marked an important step in safeguarding the waters and their ecosystems.

Local fishing communities follow sustainable practices in designated areas, supplying fresh seafood to island restaurants and homes. This way of working reflects how people on the island have learned to live with the sea in a careful and responsible manner.

Plan to visit during warmer months when water clarity is better and conditions are most favorable for water activities. Tours and diving excursions operate from the island, so checking local conditions beforehand helps with planning your time on the water.

Warm and cold ocean currents converge in these waters, creating a rare setting where tropical and temperate species coexist. This meeting point allows an extraordinary range of sea life that you would not normally find together in one place.