Things To Do
in Kingston
Kingston sits on the southern coast of Norfolk Island, facing turquoise water and rugged headlands. It hosts the Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves the island’s convict-era heritage. The area blends sandstone ruins, colonial-era buildings, and scenic coastal paths that whisper of the 18th century.
Today Kingston offers a relaxed, small-town vibe with easy access to beaches, nature, and rich history.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic ruins of Kingston, visiting the eight convict-built structures that are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Engage with informative displays that detail the island's turbulent past, providing a deep understanding of its significance. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling fresh island produce.
After lunch, take a guided tour of the Norfolk Island Museum to explore a treasure trove of artifacts and narratives about the island's cultural heritage. Then, venture to the nearby St. Barnabas Chapel, a beautiful landmark that offers stunning views. Wind down with a visit to the nearby convict cemetery where you can reflect on the island's poignant history.
As night falls, enjoy a sumptuous island-themed dinner at a waterfront restaurant overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Savor delicious local dishes made with fresh ingredients, while listening to stories from the locals about Kingston's unique heritage. End the evening with a peaceful walk along the shoreline, enjoying the serene sound of the waves.
Kick off your morning with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a scenic hike through the lush landscape of Norfolk Island. Head to the Captain Cook Lookout for breathtaking views of the coastline and surrounding geography. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty as you navigate the diverse flora and fauna of the island.
Post-hike, relax at Emily Bay Beach where you can swim in the crystal-clear waters and unwind on golden sands. Try your hand at snorkeling to explore the vibrant marine life that inhabits the surrounding coral reefs. Grab a picnic lunch or enjoy some refreshments at a beachside shack.
As the sun sets, return to your accommodation to refresh before heading out for a traditional outdoor barbecue. Engage in a friendly gathering with other travelers and locals while enjoying grilled meats and fresh salad. Finish the night star-gazing, marveling at the clear southern hemisphere sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 AUD |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $60-90 AUD |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 AUD |
| 🚗Car hire per day | $70-110 AUD |
| 🏨Hotel room per night | $120-250 AUD |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and UNESCO-listed heritage
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to beaches
- Calm, scenic surroundings and friendly locals
- Reliable seafood and fresh island produce
- Safe destination with relaxed pace
- Limited direct flight connections and transport options
- Smaller nightlife and dining variety than bigger destinations
- Higher costs due to isolation and import logistics
- "Hello" - Hello
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Please" - Please
- "Where is the bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Do you speak English?" - Do you speak English?
- "Goodbye" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Kingston
Visit one of these nice places.
A sheltered lagoon with crystal-clear water and white sand—perfect for sunrise and long-exposure coastal shots.
Historic coastal structure with dramatic sea backdrop; great for silhouette and architectural photography.
Ruins and stonework set against cliffside views—excellent for moody historical photography.
Elevated vantage point offering panoramic coastal and forest scenes, especially striking at sunset.
Food in Kingston
Kingston Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A seasonal medley of locally caught fish, prawns, and calamari, often served with lemon, herbs, and fresh vegetables.
Must-Try!
Slow-roasted pork accompanied by pumpkin and root vegetables, a comforting island staple.
A light, creamy chowder using fresh prawns and a touch of island citrus for brightness.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market stalls offering fresh fruit, vegetables, honey, crafts, and local snacks near Burnt Pine—great for souvenirs and tastings.
Occasional pop-up stalls along the waterfront featuring street-food-style bites and freshly caught seafood.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly hello and a small chat are appreciated; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Treat ruins and sacred sites with care; avoid climbing on unstable structures.
Carry out trash, respect wildlife, and stay on marked trails to protect the island’s delicate ecosystems.
Safety
Tipping in Kingston
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Norfolk Island; polite appreciation for good service is appreciated, but most bills are all-inclusive and service charges aren’t universal.
Most establishments accept AUD and major credit cards; cash is widely accepted, and some remote venues may prefer cash only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot days with humidity; occasional tropical showers. Great for swimming, snorkeling, and long beach days.
Milder temperatures, less humidity, pleasant for hiking and outdoor markets.
Cooler evenings with mild daytime temperatures; ocean water still swimmable in protected coves; occasional sea spray and windy days.
Fresh greenery and blooming flora; ideal for wildlife watching and coastal walks.
Kingston at Night
Hiking in Kingston
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular inland hike offering rainforest scenery and sweeping coastal views.
Ridge trail along dramatic sea cliffs with ocean viewpoints.
Lush rainforest path leading to a waterfall and freshwater pool.
Airports
How to reach Kingston by plane.
The island's main gateway; a small regional airport with direct connections to select Australian hubs and occasional international services; located on the western side near Burnt Pine.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with strong ties to the island's history and culture.
A small community with historical roots linked to Pitcairn Island settlers.
Tourists and residents from Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime with local clubs and community games.
Local teams and community matches add seasonal energy.
Swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking are common along the coastal areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kingston.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetable-centered dishes or can modify seafood/meat dishes. Request items featuring roasted vegetables, salads, and legumes.
Many venues can accommodate gluten-free needs; communicate dietary requirements when ordering and opt for grilled seafood, salads, and rice or potatoes as sides.
Dairy-free options are typically available in salads, seafood dishes, and meat mains; confirm dressings and sauces contain dairy if needed.