There's more to Norfolk Island There's more to Norfolk Island

A small stone obelisk marks the spot, roughly, where Captain Cook landed on Norfolk Island during his second round-the-world voyage in 1774. Impressed by what he found here, Cook described Norfolk Island as ‘paradise’, and it’s not hard to see why. This is a truly beautiful spot.

From the lookout, feast your eyes on majestic vistas. Along the coastline, Norfolk pines stand proudly on steep, indented cliffs, the South Pacific crashing at their feet. Offshore, you’ll see formations such Bird Rock, Elephant Rock and Green Pool Stone.

If you want to do some hiking, follow Bridle Track (1.7-kilometre one-way), which slopes downhill from the monument. This track connects with other nature trails in Norfolk Island National Park.

A man and woman stand on a grassy cliffside which is covered with Norfolk pines. The calm ocean in front of them is dotted with rock formations.
An elevated view of a grass-covered cliffs edge. A woman stands on the viewing deck looking out at the ocean below.
A close up shot of the Captain Cook monument which stands on a grass-covered area of the cliff. In the distance, the viewing deck looks out over the ocean.
A man stands on a timber viewing deck looking out at the view from the cliff. Golden light from the sunset streams through the trees around them.
A close up shot of a woman taking a picture of the ocean from the viewing deck. Rock formations are scattered at the base of the cliff behind her.
Captain Cook Monument & lookout at sunset with warm sun hitting the cliffs and pine trees.

Visitor Information

Operating Hours: 24/7

Cost: Free

Getting Here: A 15-minute drive north of Burnt Pine. Access is via Duncombe Bay Road.

Top Tips for Captain Cook Monument & Lookout

  • Bring food: tables, benches, barbecues and toilets make Captain Cook Monument and Lookout a winning picnic spot.
  • Birdwatchers are in for a treat with white terns, black noddies and red-tailed tropicbirds often spotted in the area.
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Your Norfolk experience starts here