Lord Howe Island's vast, sheltered lagoon is the world's southernmost fringing coral reef lagoon, offering crystalline waters and spectacular coral gardens just metres from shore. Erscott's Hole, Comets, and the reef off Old Settlement Beach (marked by yellow buoys) are standout snorkeling spots within the lagoon, teeming with colourful fish and the occasional Galapagos shark cruising by. The lagoon's calm, protected waters make it ideal for families, while the Marine Park status ensures pristine, vibrant reefs. Snorkel gear is available for hire along the foreshore or via an honesty box at Ned's Beach.
Lord Howe Island Lagoon
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Wave Height 0.1 mSwell Period 12 sWind Speed 7.0 knPrecipitation 0.1 mmTidal Phase slack
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Community contribution: submitted by Daniel
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Low risk: Outgoing tide current
The tidal channel at the mouth of the lagoon can produce steady outgoing currents, especially during falling tide. Swimmers should stay within the marked lagoon areas.
Low risk: Galapagos shark presence
Small Galapagos sharks are frequently sighted in the lagoon. They are generally non-aggressive and curious, but snorkelers should observe from a respectful distance and avoid feeding or provoking them.
Low risk: Exposed swell (Ned's Beach)
Ned's Beach (within the lagoon area) can experience large rolling swells dependent on weather and wind conditions, making entry difficult. Best visited when calm conditions prevail.
Wildlife Guide
No wildlife notes for this spot yet.
Gallery
1 photo from the community
Getting in
Shore entry
Entry
The lagoon is accessed from Lagoon Beach, adjacent to the island's main settlement. From the airport, walk or cycle 10 minutes along Lagoon Road. The lagoon stretches along the western side of the island. Snorkel tours depart from the lagoon foreshore to outer reef sites like Erscott's Hole and Comets.
Parking & facilities
Limited parking near the lagoon foreshore near the shops area (approx. $15/hour). Bicycles are the preferred mode of transport. Hire cars and bikes available from Wilson's Hire, Thompson's Store, and Leanda Lei.
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Free entry. Snorkel gear hire from operators on the foreshore or via honesty box at Ned's Beach. Guided tours $50-100 AUD.
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About this data
- Conditions last evaluated
- Spot data last updated
- Data sources
- Open-Meteo (marine & weather conditions), tide predictions via UTide, community contributors (descriptions, hazards, marine life).
- License
- Spot content licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. How's the Spot is open source.
Weather & swell ┬╖ Open-Meteo marine & weather APIs Tides ┬╖ UTide harmonic analysis Sea & safety ┬╖ community reports