The Top 15 Tours & Experiences In Norfolk Island

Norfolk Island offers a surprisingly diverse array of tours and experiences for visitors eager to get a true sense of its unique culture, history, and flavors. Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient convict settlements, sampling local cuisine, or enjoying spectacular coastal views, the island delivers. We favor the Norfolk Island Fish Fry Experience for its authentic atmosphere and lively entertainment, and the Convict Settlement Tour for its in-depth look at the island’s colonial past. Each of these experiences captures a different side of Norfolk Island, making it well worth your time.

This list highlights 15 top-rated tours and experiences, ranging from historical walks and food tours to scenic bushwalks and lively dinners. With options that suit different budgets and interests, you’ll find plenty to fill your days, and even your evenings, with enriching and memorable moments. Read on for detailed reviews and insights into each one.

1. Norfolk Island Fish Fry Experience

At number 1, the Norfolk Island Fish Fry Experience is a lively event that’s been running for over 40 years. For about $57.38 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2.5-hour evening of local food, live entertainment, and sunset views. The event includes a generous all-you-can-eat feast of deep-fried fish, salads, and seasonal island dishes, plus coffee and tea.

What makes this tour stand out is its authentic, community-centered vibe. Traditional music and dance performances, including Polynesian dancers, create an island-party atmosphere that’s hard to beat. Many reviews praise the delicious food, especially the fried fish, and the friendly staff. You might find yourself wishing for a longer dance segment or another night there.

Bottom line: This is perfect if you want a fun, relaxed evening with good food, local music, and a sense of Norfolk Island’s hospitality. It’s especially suited for food lovers and those wanting an easy yet lively night out.

2. Island Orientation Tour with Airport Transfer Norfolk Island

Starting your trip stress-free, the Island Orientation Tour offers a quick and informative 3-hour overview of Norfolk’s top sights for only $21.52 per person. It includes airport pickup and drop-off, so you can start your holiday without hassle.

Your guide will introduce you to landmarks like Cascade Bay and Burnt Pine, while also exploring Kingston’s UNESCO-listed historic area. The tour allows you to see the island’s beaches, mountains, and wildlife with just enough detail to help you plan future outings. Many travelers appreciate the friendly staff and the delicious scones with jam and cream, which add a cozy, welcoming touch.

Bottom line: Ideal for first-time visitors who want a quick orientation without missing the highlights. It’s practical, affordable, and sets the stage for independent adventures afterward.

3. Island Orientation Package incl. Return Airport Transfers & Tour

For a bit more comprehensive introduction, the Island Orientation Package combines airport transfers with a 3-hour tour for just $21.52. It’s perfect if you want a seamless start to your stay, with comfortable transport and insight into major sights.

Guides like Brook, with their thorough knowledge, will show you everything from the historic Kingston area to the island’s rich culture. The tour is highly rated for its convenience and informative commentary, making it especially well-suited for travelers arriving with little time but a desire to get their bearings.

Bottom line: A great budget-friendly option that helps you understand Norfolk Island’s layout and history in a short time. Recommended for first-timers wanting a smooth arrival experience.

4. Convict Settlement Tour Norfolk Island

At number 4, the Convict Settlement Tour digs into Norfolk Island’s dark convict past over 3.5 hours, for $40.68. You’ll explore the Kingston and Arthur’s Vale Historic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with visits to the old gaol ruins, convict cemeteries, and historic homes.

What makes this tour exceptional is the detailed storytelling. Your guide shares stories of the harsh realities of convict life and the island’s role as a penal colony, making history come alive. Guests often comment on the expertise and enthusiasm of the guide, like one reviewer who said, “John was wonderful, a true insight and genuine.” The afternoon tea at the end adds a nice touch of relaxation.

Bottom line: Perfect for history lovers who want an immersive look at Norfolk’s colonial and penal past. It offers great value in both content and storytelling.

5. Convict Kingston Tour

The Convict Kingston Tour is a 3.5-hour journey through Norfolk Island’s convict site, priced at €35.61 per person. It focuses on the first penal colony on the island, with visits to historic sites like the Kingston convict settlement and surrounding cemeteries.

This tour’s highlight is its comprehensive storytelling and transport included from Burnt Pine, making it easy to access. Guests praise guides like Brooke for their passion and detailed stories, such as “He knew so much and had reports to share.” The tour provides a tangible sense of the harsh and complex history of Norfolk’s penal days that shaped the island.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for those interested in Australian convict history and looking for a well-organized, informative experience.

6. Progressive Dinner to Island Homes

At number 6, the Progressive Dinner takes you into the homes of local families for a 3-course meal at $68.14. This tour offers a unique look at Norfolk Island’s community life, as you move between three different homes, sampling local produce and home-cooked dishes.

The tour’s charm lies in its intimate atmosphere and storytelling, with hosts sharing their family histories and island traditions. Many reviews mention the delicious food and the opportunity to connect authentically with locals. It’s a perfect activity for foodies and travelers seeking a deeper cultural experience.

Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting an authentic, personal taste of island life with a dash of gourmet food.

7. Breakfast Bushwalk in Norfolk Island

For active travelers, the Breakfast Bushwalk combines a scenic walk with a hearty breakfast for $48.06. Starting early, you’ll trek through rainforests and clifftops, with options for easy or more challenging routes, before enjoying a delicious breakfast BBQ with sweeping views.

This tour is praised for its informative guides and breathtaking scenery, especially during sunrise or early morning walks. Reviewers mention the great variety of flora and fauna, including endemic plants and birds. It’s ideal if you love nature and want to combine exercise with local cuisine.

Bottom line: A fantastic choice for outdoor enthusiasts eager to combine physical activity with a satisfying meal and stunning vistas.

8. Norfolk Island Progressive Dinner to Island Homes

Offering a slightly different experience, this Progressive Dinner features three local families hosting a delicious 3-course meal with white wine and coffee. Priced at $68.14, it allows you to connect directly with Norfolk Islanders and learn about their daily lives and traditions.

Guests often highlight the engaging hosts and authentic stories shared during the dinner. The tours are well-rated for their high-quality food and personalized atmosphere. It’s perfect for travelers interested in local culture and cuisine in an intimate setting.

Bottom line: A top pick for those wanting to combine food, culture, and personal stories in a relaxed, friendly environment.

9. Breakfast Bushwalk & Clifftop BBQ Tour

Number 9, the Breakfast Bushwalk & Clifftop BBQ, offers a 3-hour adventure at $50.21. Hike to the Captain Cook Monument, with options for an easy or more challenging trail, before gathering for a clifftop breakfast BBQ with stunning sea views.

The tour emphasizes guided walks through the national park, with commentary about local flora and history. Reviewers appreciate the beautiful scenery and the generous breakfast, which is a perfect start to the day. It’s an excellent choice for active visitors who want a scenic workout paired with good food.

Bottom line: Great for outdoor lovers seeking a mix of adventure and a hearty breakfast in a scenic setting.

10. Commandants Dinner & Show

For a lively evening, the Commandants Dinner & Show combines dinner, live performances, and historical storytelling for $70.29. The show recreates the life of Norfolk’s colonial Commandants, with actors in costume sharing tales of the colonial era, rebellions, and island life.

Guests enjoy a three-course meal inspired by British cuisine while being entertained by theatrical performances. Reviewers mention the interactive and humorous nature of the show, making it a fun way to learn about the island’s past.

Bottom line: Ideal for those looking for an entertaining, theatrical history experience with a good meal.

11. Ghost Tour & Dinner Norfolk Island

Number 11, the Ghost Tour & Dinner combines spooky stories with a delicious meal for $70.29. This evening tour takes you through Kingston by lantern light, sharing tales of Norfolk’s haunted past.

The tour’s highlight is the atmospheric lantern-lit walk through historic ruins, topped with dinner in a historic Georgian building. Reviewers rave about the engaging storytelling and enjoyable meal, perfect for fans of ghost stories and history alike.

Bottom line: A fun, eerie experience that combines history, storytelling, and a good meal for those who love a spooky twist.

12. A Taste Of Norfolk

Food lovers should not miss the A Taste Of Norfolk. For around $50, this 3.5-hour food tour explores local produce, liqueurs, and traditional dishes. You’ll visit producers of honey, salt, and local meat, plus enjoy a cooking demonstration.

Many reviewers mention the informative commentary and delicious tastings, including local honey and island liqueurs. It’s a perfect tour for those who want to learn about the island’s flavors and culinary traditions.

Bottom line: Excellent for foodies wanting an immersive, hands-on experience with Norfolk Island’s cuisine.

13. Baunti Fish Fry – Self Drive

The Baunti Fish Fry – Self Drive is a more intimate, flexible option at $57.38, allowing you to drive yourself to a hilltop for a fresh seafood feast.

You’ll enjoy paddock-to-plate dishes like freshly caught fried fish, seasonal island fare, and lively entertainment from a Polynesian singer and dancers. The small group size—no more than 15—ensures a relaxed atmosphere, with door-to-door transfers included for ease. Many reviewers rave about the best fish they’ve tasted in years and the great entertainment.

Bottom line: Perfect for independent travelers wanting a local-style dinner with a lively vibe and flexible schedule.

14. Colleen McCullough Home Tour on Norfolk Island

Number 14 introduces you to the Colleen McCullough Home Tour, where fans of “The Thorn Birds” can explore her residence, Out Yenna. For around $45.19, you’ll see her personal collection of artifacts and learn about her life on Norfolk.

Guides share stories about her writing process and the inspiration she drew from the island. Many visitors find it fascinating and appreciate the personal insight into this literary icon. The house remains a private residence, so photos aren’t allowed inside.

Bottom line: An ideal choice for literary fans or those interested in local personalities, offering a personal glimpse into Colleen McCullough’s world.

15. 1856 The Untold Story

Finally, the 1856 The Untold Story offers a 1-hour 15-minute coach ride and audio experience for $39.45. It recounts the journey of 194 Pitcairn Islanders arriving on Norfolk in 1856, with a sound and light show dramatizing their migration.

This experience is especially good if you want a visual and auditory way to learn about the island’s early settlers. The reviews note the informative narration and evocative presentation, creating a vivid picture of Norfolk’s past.

Bottom line: Suitable for history lovers seeking a concise, immersive portrayal of the island’s early settlers.

How to Choose

When selecting your Norfolk Island tour, consider your interests and travel style. History enthusiasts will enjoy the Convict Settlement or Convict Kingston tours, while foodies should explore the Taste of Norfolk or the Progressive Dinner experiences. If you want an evening event with entertainment, the Fish Fry Experience or Commandants Dinner & Show are excellent options. For active travelers, the Bushwalk and Clifftop BBQ offers scenic exercise paired with breakfast.

Budget-wise, options range from under $22 for the Airport Transfer to more immersive experiences like the Homes Tour or Progressive Dinners. Book early, especially for popular events like the Fish Fry, as Norfolk Island’s limited accommodations and tours fill fast.

Final Thoughts

Norfolk Island’s diverse tours provide a rich experience for every type of traveler. History buffs can’t miss the Convict sites or 1856 story, while food lovers will enjoy sampling island flavors with the Taste of Norfolk or sharing a meal during the Progressive Dinner. For a memorable night out, the Fish Fry offers a lively, authentic atmosphere, and the Commandants Dinner & Show combines humor with history.

Whichever experiences you choose, Norfolk Island rewards curiosity and a willingness to step slightly off the beaten track. With careful planning and early booking, you’ll enjoy some of the best local stories, flavors, and scenery the island has to offer.