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

If Ball Bay Reserve isn’t on your Norfolk Island itinerary, it should be. Centred around a crescent-shaped bay bordered by pine-covered headland, it’s got natural beauty in spades.

To get here, drive along Marsh’s Road, which cuts through the reserve. It’s a steep drive down to the bay, but the views are nothing shy of glorious. Because it’s the eroded remnant of a volcanic cone, the bay is filled with dark rocks, smoothed by the relentless onslaught of waves and wind.

If you’re after adventure, bring your board. When the wind is playing ball, there’s a sweet surf break at the bay. Most days, you’ll have it entirely to yourself.

While it’s very much a place to marvel at nature, Ball Bay also serves a practical function for Norfolk Island, with our fuel reserves being pumped up and stored here.

Early morning light hits a cliff which stretches away into the sea. Cliff has patches of grass and Norfolk pines.
Shore-level view of a rocky, crescent-shaped bay with calm water. Cliffs covered with grass and Norfolk pines come down to meet the sea.
Close-up of the clear water at the shore. Gentle waves break over many rocks.
Looking up through a stand of trees growing on the side of a grass-covered hill.

Visitor information

Operating Hours: 24/7

Cost: Free

Getting Here: On the southeastern edge of the island, about a 10-minute drive from Burnt Pine.

Top Tips for Ball Bay Reserve

  • Book in for a wine-tasting session and one of the famous platters at nearby Two Chimneys Winery.
  • It’s best to wear sturdy shoes to walk across the rocky shore at Ball Bay Reserve.
Map image

Your Norfolk experience starts here