Luxury holidays in Lord Howe Island

When to go

September to May has the best beach weather, with water temperatures hitting 25 degrees from February to April; cooler days from June to August attract hikers and an older crowd. Lord Howe Island has a perpetual spring climate, though, so any season is a good time to visit.

Getting there

• Planes

  Unless you’re a seafaring Smith with your own yacht, the only way to get to the island is by air. QantasLink (www.qantas.com.au) operates a 32-seat Dash 8 service from Sydney most days, and from Brisbane on weekends. A seasonal weekly service is also available from Port Macquarie from February to June and September to December. Flight time is two hours (it’s the closest island getaway to Sydney) and the 14kg luggage allowance is strictly enforced.

• Automobiles

  Walking or cycling is the best way to get round the island, but you can rent a car from Wilson’s Hire Service if you prefer four wheels to two (contact [email protected]).

• Taxis

  There are no cabs on Lord Howe, and not many regular cars, but your hotel can help with transport (most offer airport transfers). Packing tips Binoculars for close-ups of rare birds, hiking gear, and a pair of old trainers for reef-walking.