Shopping
There are two general stores on Lord Howe Island. Joys Shop sells most grocery items, fresh fruit, vegetables and souvenirs. Thompsons Store sells grocery items, gifts, souvenirs and fishing gear. Both general stores sell fresh bread. Diamonds in the ‘CBD’ (previously known as the Top Shop) sells meat, fruit and vegetables.
The CBD is also home to the Lord Howe Island Post Office, the Community Hall, and Anchorage Cafe (which is open 7 days and serves coffee, light meals and bakery items).
Art and craft
Kenny Lees is a great local photographer and sells beautiful prints. Ginny Retmock runs ‘Ginny’s Shed’ where you can buy island artwork and distinctive hand-painted textiles.
Health and beauty
There are two day spas on the Island, as well as the Pinetrees Spa.
Transport
There’s no public transport on Lord Howe Island. Pinetrees provides island airport transfers. No other transport around the island is included – we’re too busy cooking and cleaning for you. If you can ride a bike, then it’s best to hire a bike from Wilson’s Hire for the duration of your stay and pre-booking during busy times such as school holidays is recommended. If you’re unable to ride a bike you might like to hire a car. This will ensure you can visit the scenic spots, beaches, museum and shops. There are a limited number of cars available to hire on the island and they are in high demand. We highly recommend pre-booking a car before you arrive. You can hire a car from Wilson’s Hire, Thompsons Store or Leanda-Lei. The speed limit is 25km/hour and people wave to each other on the road. By the end of your stay, you’ll be waving too.
Medical
The local GP, Dr Frank Reed, is based at The Gower Wilson Memorial Hospital on Lagoon Road. Clinic hours are 9:00am – 12:00pm weekdays and you can call the hospital on 6563 2000 for an appointment. The hospital also has a pharmacy. There is an after hours service for emergencies. Since the hospital has limited staff, an air ambulance is sometimes called to transfer emergency patients to hospital in Sydney.
Money
The Commonwealth Bank has a branch on the island which is open for limited hours. There’s an ATM at the Bowling Club, and you can withdraw cash at the post office. Credit cards are accepted at most island businesses.
Interpretation
The Lord Howe Island Museum is well worth a visit – and is one of the best options in wet weather! It has interesting cultural and environmental displays, and a small shop selling Lord Howe Island souvenirs.
Tourism
There are snorkelling and coral viewing trips, diving trips, fishing trips, scenic boat charters, guided walks and climbs, cultural tours and environmental tours. The Pinetrees noticeboard has details and a free local phone that you can use to contact tour operators.
Churches
There are Anglican, Catholic and Seventh Day Adventist churches on the island. Visitors are welcome at Saturday and Sunday services.
