When I told people I was travelling to Norfolk Island, they responded in one of three ways: blank stares, jokes about retirees or a nod to its colonial past. After four days exploring this often-overlooked external Australian territory, I’m ready to bust the myths and show why Norfolk Island deserves a spot on every traveller’s radar – no matter your age.
Located 1,400 kilometres from the mainland, Norfolk is one of Australia’s most isolated communities and one of its oldest territories, having been settled six weeks after Sydney. The island is just a 2.5-hour flight from the NSW capital, or two hours from Brisbane, but it feels like a world away. Despite boasting Australia’s third-best beach for 2025, a UNESCO-listed heritage area and plenty of unspoilt natural beauty, Norfolk Island is often overlooked in favour of Lord Howe or the Whitsundays. After visiting, I can confirm it’s one of Australia’s best-kept secrets – and here are 11 things that surprised me.
1. Norfolk Island is the only Pacific Island Australians can visit without a passport
Norfolk is technically part of Australia; it’s one of our seven external territories. However, flights depart from the international airport. Instead of the usual e-gates, you’ll go through a separate immigration section – and Australian citizens can use any valid form of ID, no passport required.
2. It’s one of the world’s most remote inhabited islands – with a unique ancestry
Home to just 2,188 people (ABS 2021), Norfolk Island has a fascinating mix of cultures. Around 25 per cent of the population identifies as having Pitcairn ancestry, blending British, Polynesian and Tahitian roots.
3. The locals speak Norfuk
While English is the main language, some Islanders speak Norfuk – a mix of Tahitian and 18th-century English, inherited from the descendants of the Bounty mutineers. You can read more about the island's history here.
4. There are no traffic lights – and cows have right of way
Instead of traffic lights, Norfolk Island has cows. They roam freely across the landscape, a nod to the island’s long-standing agricultural roots. Ultimately, the cows decide when you stop and start – reminding you to slow down and enjoy Norfolk’s unhurried way of life.
5. Cars stayed unlocked
Your rental car will be waiting at the airport unlocked, with the keys in the ignition – and yes, it’s completely safe.
6. You wave at everyone
One of the first things you’ll notice while driving around is the famous ‘Norfolk Wave’. Locals lift a finger or salute to every passing car – and tourists are expected to join in. It’s simple, it’s friendly and it makes you feel like part of the community from the moment you land.
7. It’s home to one of the world’s only public courses on Heritage-listed land
Sitting beside the sparkling waters of Emily Bay, Norfolk Island Golf Club isn’t just ridiculously scenic – it’s genuinely one of a kind. This nine-hole beauty sits within the Kingston Heritage Area, one of 11 UNESCO-listed Australian Convict Sites. So, you can literally tee off on heritage land with ocean views at your feet.
8. Norfolk pines aren’t the only giant trees
Sure, Norfolk’s namesake pines are the island’s most iconic trees, but they’re taller than I had expected – some stretch up to 25 metres. And they’re not the only giants. Head towards Hundred Acres Reserve and you’ll find an impressive row of towering fig trees.
9. The food scene is unreal
For such a tiny island, Norfolk punches well above its weight when it comes to dining. You won’t find any food chains, just boutique restaurants championing local produce and fresh-caught seafood. Take The Homestead Restaurant, where the menu may change daily based on what’s available, and I ate possibly the best sourdough, baked fresh in a wood-fired grill.
10. It’s home to one of Australia’s best beaches, but is never crowded
In 2025, Tourism Australia crowned Emily Bay Lagoon the third-best beach in Australia. Its calm, reef-protected waters form a perfect horseshoe-shaped lagoon, ideal for swimming and snorkelling. Best of all? Despite its fame, I had the entire beach to myself when I visited – truly a private slice of paradise.
11. Norfolk Island isn’t just for retirees
With its rich colonial history and semi-off-grid lifestyle, Norfolk Island feels like stepping into a quieter, more relaxed era. But don’t believe the rumours that it’s strictly for older visitors. Sure, the crowd leans a little older, but the island is a hidden gem for hiking, snorkelling and even surfing. Come here for an uncrowded honeymoon, a relaxed solo escape or an adventure-packed family holiday.