Passing through Lord Howe Island Airport? A layover in Lord Howe Island is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of LDH:
- Can you legally enter Australia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the AUD. A travel-friendly debit card with no foreign transaction fees will save you money here.
The Best Way Into Lord Howe Island from LDH
You have two main options for getting from Lord Howe Island Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Lord Howe Island might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$15 USD
- A meal: ~$30 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$55 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Specific locker facilities at LDH aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Lord Howe Island itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Lord Howe Island, we’d suggest Ned’s Beach Reserve and Lagoon Beach & Boat Sheds. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
If you’d rather stay inside LDH — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Scenic Viewpoint from Terminal
- Lord Howe Island Airport Cafe (Relaxation)
Where to Grab a Meal
- In the city: Lord Howe Island Bowls Club Bistro and Anchorage Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Lord Howe Island.
- At the airport: Lord Howe Island Airport Cafe and Airport Snack & Beverage Kiosk will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at LDH, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at LDH for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Lord Howe Island or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Lord Howe Island doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 30 minutes from LDH, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.