Meet the site
Blackburn Island – known locally as Rabbit Island – is the small grassy island in the middle of Lord Howe's lagoon, about 700 m off Lagoon Beach. Pinetrees Lodge's local guide describes it as 2.4 hectares in area and only 32 m high, with a single banyan tree spreading over about 140 square metres and burrows of migrating wedge-tailed shearwaters (muttonbirds) across the ground. The summit gives a panoramic view of the island's peaks and the lagoon.
The island is a popular kayak and paddleboard destination, and the guide mentions snorkelling spots around its shores, though without detail. Being in the centre of the lagoon, the surrounding water is shallow sand and coral patches typical of the lagoon floor, where snorkellers can expect the lagoon's reef fish and a chance of turtles. The coral is less spectacular than at the holes near the barrier reef, but combining a paddle, a walk to the top and a snorkel makes a good half-day.
The key to the trip is the weather. Pinetrees describes paddling across when an easterly leaves the lagoon flat and glassy; westerlies make the crossing hard work. Landing is described as unofficially allowed, and visitors should avoid the shearwater burrows, which collapse easily.
It suits competent kayakers and snorkellers of all abilities once there. Scuba is not needed – the water is shallow and depth figures here are estimates. Check the marine park zoning map for the surrounding lagoon before fishing.
Research this site before booking Stored site notes may be historical. These questions highlight gaps without turning old instructions into a current dive plan.
Blackburn Island is recorded as Island in Lord Howe Island. The listed access is shore or boat. Confirm the actual meeting point, route and permission to visit; a map pin does not establish any of these.
Topics flagged by the stored research
These are questions prompted by the existing notes, not a verified or complete hazard assessment.
- Other water users
- Ask about vessel activity, exclusion areas and the agreed surface arrangements.
Historical access notes exist for this record, but have not been independently verified for current use. Request current directions from the operator or site manager rather than following an old entry description.
Questions, answered
Is Blackburn Island suitable for my certification?
The record lists Snorkel/Any. That does not establish suitability for every route or day. Share your training, recent experience and equipment needs with the operator and ask about the specific proposed dive.
Can I book Blackburn Island through YouDive?
YouDive is an independent research directory. Contact an operator directly to confirm whether it currently runs the trip, the inclusions and the booking terms.
What you might see
Lagoon reef fish, coral patches, turtles (possible); wedge-tailed shearwaters nesting on the island
Location
A small grassy island about 700 m off Lagoon Beach in the middle of the lagoon, with snorkelling around its shores.
Facilities nearby
None on the island; kayak hire, toilets and cafes at Lagoon Beach.
Before you make plans
Conditions, access and operator schedules can change. This is a location guide, not a dive plan. Ask a local operator about current conditions and suitability for your training and experience.
Sources & further reading
pinetrees.com.auRecord updated 26 Sept 2026. Source claims are being reviewed.