Australia 7 Day Exclusive Highlights Tour

Lord Howe Island is Australia’s premier bird watching destination, with 14 species of seabirds breeding here in the hundreds of thousands.

Between November to June you can watch Red-tailed Tropicbirds performing their balletic, airborne courting rituals from the Malabar cliffs.

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Lord Howe is legendary for fishing. Surrounded by Marine Park and with no commercial fishery, the diversity of species, terrain, methods – and the sheer abundance of fish – rank Lord Howe among the world’s top fishing destinations.

There are dozens of hot spots for hooking into monster pelagics such as Lord Howe Kingfish, Yellowfin Tuna, and Wahoo, as well as several species unique to Lord Howe.
And there’s a virtually untouched game fishery – featuring Black, Blue and Striped Marlin – as little as half an hour from the jetty. Lord Howe is protected by the world’s most southerly coral reef, which shelters the crystal-clear Lagoon. The local sportfishing ‘grand slam’ is to catch a Trevally, Silver Drummer, Bluefish and the endemic Double Header Wrasse in one session of sight-casting in the shallow waters of the Lagoon. (Bag limits apply to Bluefish and Double Headers, and a catch-and-release policy is encouraged).

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Lord Howe Island’s abundant marine life and crystal clear waters attract divers from around the world to explore some of the best dive sites on the planet.

The coral reefs at Lord Howe Island are the most southerly (31° 33’S) – and among the most spectacular – in the world. The island is located at the crossroads of five major ocean currents, including the warm East Australian Current which runs down the Great Barrier Reef and down into the Tasman Sea. The island’s unique marine ecosystem hosts a diverse mix of tropical, sub-tropical and temperate species which is found nowhere else on earth; there are over 90 species of coral and 500 species of fish inhabiting the reef. Lord Howe’s underwater topography of trenches, caves and volcanic drop-offs adds to the awe-inspiring diving experience at the island.

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The calm waters of the lagoon are ideal for kids. Paddle at the edge or snorkel above colourful corals just metres from the shore.

Hire snorkeling gear from the dive shops or at Ned’s Beach use the masks, fins, and snorkels stored there for the cost of a contribution to the ‘honesty box’.

Body surf at Blinky Beach, or swim in the open ocean at Ned’s Beach.

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Although only 11km long and 2km wide, Lord Howe is laced with dozens of delightful, well-marked walking trails; nearly two thirds of the island is a Permanent Park Preserve.

The choice ranges from easy strolls at sea level through lush kentia palm and banyan forests, to moderate cliff-top hikes where you’ll see seabirds wheeling on the thermals, to the challenging 875 metre Mt Gower climb – rated as one of the best day treks in the world.

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In addition to its many unmatched natural attractions, Lord Howe Island offers a wide range of outdoor activities for a variety of interests and fitness levels. It’s an ideal destination for families, or equally for a romantic getaway.

From bike riding along picturesque roads and surfing the island’s clean breaks, to a relaxing game of golf or lawn bowls in ideal surroundings, the island’s facilities and natural attractions are sure to keep people of all ages entertained. Lord Howe also boasts great conditions for kiteboarding and windsurfing, provides tennis courts to tempt visitors and locals to a lively game, and is a popular destination for keen sailors.

Picnicking on top of a remote waterfall in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest is one of the coolest things to experience when in Tropical North Queensland.

Lift off with eco-certified operator Nautilus Aviation from Silky Oaks’ own helipad heading for the coast. View the extraordinary meeting place of the rainforest and reef from a thrilling new perspective. Get the camera ready!

Heading back inland, cue the Jurassic Park soundtrack and soar at Pterodactyl heights over the 180-million-year-old Daintree Rainforest before an exhilarating touchdown at Stewarts Creek Waterfall, a magical location only accessible by helicopter. Soak up wildly beautiful views and strip-off for a swim in the cool, spring-fed waters.

Experience a bucket-list worthy high with a gourmet picnic atop the falls complete with sparkling wine for a real ‘pinch me’ moment.

Tariff: From $1,405 per adult
Duration: 30 minutes flying and 1 hour at waterfall
Departs From: Silky Oaks Lodge

Operator
Nautilus Aviation

Activity essentials
Hat and sunglasses
Sunscreen and insect repellant
Swimwear and towel
Camera
Good mobility

Minimum 2 passengers, maximum 6 passengers based on weight and heli aircraft availability. Passengers need to have a good mobility to participate in this experience due to uneven ground at the waterfall location.

This half day experience is a spectacular introduction to Kangaroo Island’s wildlife, maritime heritage and stunning coastal landscapes and takes full advantage of the Lodge’s unique location. Cape du Couedic Lighthouse, Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch and a fur seal colony are just some of the trip highlights. Wander amongst the rare Cape Barren Geese and search the leafy eucalypts for a sleepy koala.

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Seal Bay is home to Australia’s third largest colony of Australian sea lions. Join our naturalist guide on the shores of the Southern Ocean for an exclusive tour on the beach with these wild animals. Learn about their unique breeding cycle and the ongoing research programs implemented on site. It’s just one of the many privileges of Kangaroo Island.

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Take a scenic walk starting right on the Lodge’s doorstep atop the limestone cliffs of Hanson Bay. This easy walk affords a bird’s eye view of thundering waves crashing along the coastline. Stand on top of the cliff with the wind blowing, look out to sea and realise there is nothing but ocean between here and Antarctica. Experience and learn about local flora, fauna and coastline ecosystems.
Tip: A photographer’s dream!

Discover the intriguing natural heritage of this wild island in the Baudin Lounge. This informative visual presentation hosted by resident naturalist staff provides insight into the Island’s discovery and natural history and gives an overview of its many spectacular attractions.

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Soak up the history of the early island settlers at Grassdale, a historic island property reached by a short drive from the Lodge and where local wildlife including kangaroos and wallabies congregate to graze. Observe these creatures in their natural environment, sip premium South Australian beverages and enjoy a ‘Kanapé’ whilst the sun goes down on another magical day.

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Departing from the Lodge, this fun, interpretive quad bike adventure tour heads into the neighbouring natural bushland at Hanson Bay Sanctuary. ‘In-helmet’ commentary is provided by a Southern Ocean Lodge naturalist guide leading the expedition, providing an insight to the local wildlife and landscape seen along the way. The Sanctuary is home to kangaroos, koalas, possums, wallabies, echidnas, goannas and birdlife in abundance, so bring a camera and sense of adventure. This adventure is available to guests 16 years and over. Additional cost applies.

Take a kayak from the Lodge and glide with a guide along the calm and meandering waters on the South West River, beginning at nearby Hanson Bay. Enjoy the scenery and a variety of birdlife, flora and fauna that inhabit this diverse ecosystem.

Additional cost applies.

Beachcombe to a nearby secluded beach, reel and tackle in hand. Cast off and enjoy some peaceful solitude whilst dolphins crest the waves in welcome. Return to the Lodge where the chef will transform fresh catches into an epicurean delight for lunch or dinner. The beaches and coves are also a great spot for an early morning or afternoon walk.

Additional cost applies.

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A visit to Hanson Bay Sanctuary to discover a world that comes alive while you are asleep. Spot the local koalas at their most active, encounter kangaroos, wallabies and possums up close whilst searching for other wildlife such as owls, bats and echidnas. A fun and educational discovery walk.

Additional cost applies.

Explore the back country of Kelly Hill Conservation Park through the historic Grassdale property and onto Hanson Bay Beach. A fascinating variety of vegetation types from eucalypt woodlands through mallee and coastal heath can be experienced on this medium grade walk. The views over Grassdale lagoons also provide the opportunity for sighting water birds and the meandering trail hosts a number of terrestrial orchids and wildflowers.

Additional cost applies for guided walks.

The untouched wilderness of Kangaroo Island provides inspiration for artists working across an amazing range of mediums. This half day tour follows a journey that takes in both the Rustic Blue and Kangaroo Fine Art Gallery. Learn the stories and see the works of renowned artists including Janine Mackintosh, ceramist Mark Capon and Indiana James with his incredible sculptures created from recycled and found objects.

Additional cost applies.

Perfect for those with a keen interest in food and wine, and its journey from paddock to plate: a short one at Southern Ocean Lodge! This half day tour takes in some of Kangaroo Island’s finest producers, whose products are each showcased on the menu; sample wines at Two Wheeler Creek Vineyard, view freshwater crayfish at the adjacent Andermel Marron Farm, see the sheep milking and taste heavenly haloumi at Island Pure Sheep Dairy and meet the Ligurian bees and their precious honey at Island Beehive.

Additional cost applies.