3 Best Sights in Norfolk Island, New South Wales

A stunning historic townsite, Kingston's beautiful Georgian colonial architectural gems belie its tragic past. The capital of Norfolk Island and the seat of government, Kingston was settled in March 1788, just weeks after Sydney was established on the Australian mainland. The second settlement from 1825 to 1855 saw the beautiful island turned into the "Hell of the Pacific," when some 1,200 convicted toiled here in a labor camp and received the harshest of treatments. They built many of the beautiful buildings standing today. The 194 Pitcairn Islanders, who arrived in 1856, make up the third settlement—these folk (all descendants of the Bounty mutineers) are the ancestors of today's Norfolk Islanders. More than a dozen buildings and ruins (dating from the 1790s to the 1850s) flank the main street of Quality Row and nearby Bay Street, including the Marine Barracks, Piper's Boat Shed, the Old Military Barracks (now used as the island's legislative assembly), the Officers' Bath, and the Royal Engineers' Office. It's a treat to walk along the streets, visiting the museum and crossing over the small stone bridges. Not far away on Dove's Plot hill is the beautiful Governor's House, built in 1804 and rebuilt in 1828—it's the oldest remaining and functioning vice-regal building in Australia. A sound-and-light show takes place on Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights (A$52). Kingston was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2010 as one of 11 significant convict sites in Australia.

A gorgeous arc of golden sand, backed by towering Norfolk Island Pines and lapped by turquoise waters, makes this the most beautiful beach on the island. It is also the only one suitable for swimming as its tranquility—described by many as a huge ocean pool—results from the protective coral reef about 100 meters off shore. Situated near Kingston and its historic buildings, Emily Bay is ideal for families and avid snorkelers, too. If that's not your thing, explore the bright coral and tropical fish on a glass-bottom boat ride. On the shoreline is a 450-year-old Norfolk Pine, documented by Captain James Cook when he visited the island in 1778. Bring a picnic or barbecue supplies as there are plenty of tables and grills, and don't forget a bottle of wine. Amenities: parking; toilets. Best for: snorkeling; solitude; sunset; swimming; walking.

This barbecue stands out, with its island entertainment and freshest seafood, as a Norfolk Island tradition. A few operators run this event, which kicks off at 5 pm at Puppy's Point, high above beautiful Anson Bay on the island's northwest side. Visitors can turn up with their own picnic and snacks or join an organized fish fry, such as the one run presented by Pinetree Tours on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. Fish, salads, homemade bread (including yummy local coconut bread), and desserts including coconut pie and some intriguing banana dishes are served. It's a family evening out and the sunsets are, weather-permitting, absolutely stunning. After the fish fry, Pinetree Tours conducts a Mutiny on the Bounty show at a different venue.