Feel like you've entered another realm on UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lord Howe Island, a natural paradise where rainforest-covered peaks meet one of the world's most southerly coral reef systems. Feel calmed by the lack of crowds — only 400 visitors are allowed on the island at any one time — as you strike out to explore the small, the crescent-shaped island, less than two hours' flight from Sydney. Here are 12 memorable ways to spend your time here.

Explore captivating coral reefs

Be mesmerised by the underwater wonderland of Lord Howe Island, where the meeting of tropical and cooler waters helps to nurture a thriving reef system home to more than 90 coral species and more than 500 species of fish. Discover excellent snorkelling around the island, among them Ned's Beach, where snorkels are conveniently available for rent via an honesty box system. Or strap on a tank and get a thrill spotting endemic marine species such as the double-header wrasse on a scuba dive, with more than 100 dive sites to choose from.

Take an invigorating hike

Feel on top of the world in every sense when you reach the summit of Mount Gower (875m), the island's highest peak and one of Australia's top day hikes, with a variety of lush ecosystems to admire en route to the top. Or harness the calming benefits of a gentler walk among huge banyan trees on the Valley of the Shadows trail (1.2km return), just one of many walks of varying difficulty lacing the island.

Be awed by Ball's Pyramid

Marvel at the spectacular 551m spearhead of grey basalt that seemingly explodes from the ocean, 23km southeast of Lord Howe Island. Sign up for a day cruise to Balls Pyramid and admire the abundance of birdlife attracted to the world's largest sea stack before slipping into the sea to explore waters teeming with marine life. Or enjoy a deeper immersion on a drift dive with Pro Dive Lord Howe Island.

Indulge a love of birdwatching

Unleash your inner twitcher on Lord Howe Island, where almost 170 species of sea and land birds either live or visit throughout the year. Delight in spotting endemic species such as the curious ground-dwelling woodhen; the island's population has flourished in recent years. And witness the unforgettable sight of thousands of providence petrels breeding on the summit of Mount Gower during the wintertime.

Sleep in island-style luxury

Wake up to the ultimate view of Mount Gower on a decadent stay in Capella Lodge's Lidgbird Pavilion, an all-inclusive double-storey apartment featuring panoramic views of the ocean, mountains and subtropical rainforest, and a private outdoor plunge pool. Relish the privacy of the private, self-contained beach house just for two at Arajilla Retreat, and revel in the architectural finesse and art-filled spaces of Island House, which comprises a pair of two-bedroom houses that can be combined to accommodate eight guests. Or stay just steps from the sand at the island's idyllic lagoon at the luxurious, family-owned Pinetrees lodge — Australia's first certified carbon-neutral hotel.

Savour homegrown island flavours

Lean into the novelty of sipping the only craft beer brewed on the island at the recently opened Lord Howe Island Brewery, nestled at the centre of the island, and sample island-inspired cocktails at The Crooked Post in 'town' while lapping up lagoon views. Enjoy a casual fresh-seafood meal at the Coral Cafe or the Anchorage Restaurant, or dine alongside locals at Lord Howe Island Golf Club's Sunset Bar & Grill as the sun sinks behind the island's idyllic lagoon.

Get the money shot

Soak up the magical vista from the top of Malabar Hill at the northern end of the island, where the 360-degree views are supercharged during the 'golden hours' either side of sunrise and sunset. You're welcome. Or cherish the accomplishment of traversing the island's diverse landscapes over five spectacular days on the Seven Peaks Walk. One of the Great Walks of Australia, this memorable guided adventure includes an ascent of Mount Gower on the final day.

Cook up an island-style barbecue

Unfurl a picnic blanket at one of 10 wood-fired barbecue spots around the island and luxuriate in the incredible coastal views as you cook yourself an island-style feed. Order a barbecue hamper stocked with island-fresh produce from your accommodation, pick up some supplies from Thompson's Store, or bask in the satisfaction of grilling a fish you hooked on a fishing charter, with yellowfin tuna, wahoo and marlin among the fishy trophies you might bag.

Kayak into the sunset

Enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the island's calm, protected lagoon on a relaxing paddle. Rent a kayak in the late afternoon to enjoy the ultimate sunset viewpoint.

Discover the island's history

Step back into the island's fascinating history at the Lord Howe Island Museum, a treasure chest of natural history, with fascinating collections spanning historical artefacts to a herbarium of dried and pressed specimens. Treat yourself to a memorable souvenir or pick up thoughtful gifts at the museum shop.

Explore Lord Howe on two wheels

Enjoy a peaceful bike ride on Lord Howe's refreshingly quiet roads. With a limited number of cars on the island, and a maximum speed limit of 25km/hr, Lord Howe is perfect for cycling. Rent or borrow a bike from your accommodation and explore the island at your leisure.

Play a memorable round of golf

Have a ball teeing off on one of Australia's most picturesque golf courses. Hugging the southern end of the island's iconic lagoon, Lord Howe Island Golf Club will keep you on your toes as the challenging nine-hole course meanders through a lush palm forest and out onto gently undulating open fairways.

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