Arajilla Retreat is the Lord Howe Island stay for couples who want privacy in the forest rather than a lodge scene. It is a boutique property of 12 suites spread through native rainforest of kentia palms and banyan trees at the sheltered northern end of the lagoon. Old Settlement Beach, where green turtles feed in the shallows, is a short walk through the trees.
Suites are spacious and light, each with its own private deck. The style is relaxed and self-sufficient: a light daily breakfast is provided and every suite has a kitchen. Covered barbecues sit outside for alfresco dinners. When you would rather not cook, the head chef prepares restaurant-quality ready-made meals to buy. The on-site gourmet deli covers picnics. Airport transfers, bikes, beach umbrellas and snorkel gear are included.
Arajilla suits couples who like independence, quiet and nature on the doorstep. It costs noticeably less than Capella Lodge while still feeling like a retreat. It suits less well if you want every meal and drink handled, a spa on site or a view of the mountains from your bed. Children from six can stay, though the retreat is mostly couples.
Highlights at a glance
- Only 12 suites in native rainforest
- Short walk to turtle-rich Old Settlement Beach
- Private decks and kitchens in every suite
- Airport transfers, bikes and snorkel gear included
- Ready-made chef meals and a gourmet deli
Why Couples Love Arajilla
Arajilla feels like a secret even on an island that already feels like one. The suites are tucked among old banyan roots and palm trunks, so you hear birds rather than neighbors. Lord Howe's woodhens and seabirds are often closer than you expect.
The location is a big plus. The northern end of the lagoon is sheltered. Old Settlement Beach is one of the easiest places on the island to swim with turtles. North Bay and its snorkeling are close by on foot or by kayak.
The island's visitor cap keeps everything calm. Only a limited number of people can visit at any one time, so even in January the walking tracks and beaches rarely feel busy. Arajilla adds its own layer of quiet, with just 12 suites on a large forested block.
Suites to Book
There are four types. For a honeymoon, the one-bedroom suites are the obvious choice.
- The Banyan Suite has a mezzanine "treetops lounge" up among the branches and a north-facing deck that catches the sun. It is the most romantic layout.
- The Kentia Suite has high ceilings, separate living areas and a large private deck. Choose it if you want more floor space.
- The Arajilla Suite has two bedrooms and two bathrooms and sleeps up to four.
- The Blue Peter Beach House sits on the western side near Lagoon Beach and is self-contained, with a two-night minimum.
Every suite has a kitchen, a covered barbecue area and a Nespresso machine. Daily room service is included. The Blue Peter Beach House trades forest seclusion for a short walk to the lagoon sunsets.
Food and Drink
Arajilla is not a full-board lodge. That is the main difference from its neighbors. A light breakfast is provided each day. The rest is up to you.
Head Chef Ben Crompton prepares ready-made meals that you can buy and heat in your suite or eat on the deck, which takes the effort out of self-catering. The Arajilla Gourmet Deli stocks supplies for picnics and barbecues. A curated list of wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks is available for purchase.
For nights out, the island has a handful of restaurants and cafés. The team will help with restaurant transfers. Book popular places ahead in summer, since tables are limited. Food on Lord Howe is expensive because almost everything arrives by plane or ship, so budget accordingly even when cooking for yourselves.
Why guests fall for it
Things to Do
Arajilla's position at the northern end makes it a good base for the island's gentler walks and best swimming. Use the included bikes to reach the lagoon beaches, Ned's Beach for fish feeding and the track up to Malabar Hill for the view along the island.
Old Settlement Beach is your local. Snorkel at high tide to see turtles, then paddle across the lagoon by kayak. North Bay has excellent snorkeling and a picnic shelter.
The big adventure is the guided day hike up Mount Gower, 875 m, at the southern end. It needs good fitness and a licensed guide, so book well ahead. Boat trips to Ball's Pyramid, the world's tallest sea stack, run when the sea allows. If one of you prefers to take it slowly, the island's nine-hole golf course and quiet beaches fill a day easily.
Getting There
Fly from Sydney (SYD) to Lord Howe Island Airport (LDH), about two hours on a small turboprop. Seats are limited, so book flights and accommodation together, months ahead for summer. Luggage limits on these flights are tight.
Arajilla's team meets you at the airport. The transfer is included. You will not need a car; bikes are included and the island is small.
Rates vary by season. The Banyan and Kentia Suites run from about AUD 1,200 a night for two in spring to about AUD 1,550 in the summer peak (approximate). Arajilla does not list rates for June to August, so check directly if you want a winter trip. A Stay 7 Pay 6 package is sometimes available and makes a week on the island much better value.
Is It Worth It?
For couples who are happy to cook a little and want seclusion, yes. Arajilla costs well below Capella Lodge, with spacious suites and a setting in the forest that feels completely private. The included transfers, bikes and snorkel gear cover the practical side of an island stay.
The catch is food. Once you add ready-made meals, dinners out and drinks, the gap with a full-board lodge narrows. Couples who never want to think about meals may prefer Pinetrees Lodge, where every meal is included, or Capella Lodge for dinner with matched wines and an open bar.
Book the Banyan Suite for the treetop lounge. Stay at least five nights, since the island's weather can change quickly and the best walks and boat trips need a calm day.
Insider tips
- Book the Banyan Suite for the mezzanine lounge in the trees.
- Order a few of the chef's ready-made dinners on arrival so you are not cooking every night.
- Snorkel Old Settlement Beach around high tide for the best chance of turtles.
- Ask about the Stay 7 Pay 6 package when you inquire.
