Captain Cook Lookout Memorial 10 October 1774

How long is it since you have been out to the northern end of Norfolk Island? Out to beautiful Captain Cook Reserve. At the Captain Cook Lookout Memorial Reserve in the National Park there are picnic tables and a BBQ area, a fantastic boardwalk and toilet facility, these were built a couple of years ago. The area is not just the start of the National Park Bridle Track, it is the famous landing place and monument to Captain James Cook.

The history of Norfolk Island is so interesting, this month is 251 years since Captain James Cook and his crew on-board HMS Resolution, arrived on Norfolk Island, 10 October 1774. They were the first Europeans to discover, map and document this small island in the Pacific on Captain Cook’s second great voyage, (1772-1775), and they sighted Norfolk Island, while sailing in command of the HMS Resolution from New Caledonia to New Zealand.

The viewing areas next to the car park have excellent information signs and show where Captain Cook anchored, which is known as “The Cord”, looking towards Duncombe Bay. If you wander down the grassy slope you will come to a stone cairn which was erected in 1953. The plaque reads:

“Captain James Cook, RN, on his second voyage around the world discovered and named this island, Norfolk Isle, landing in the Vicinity of this point on October 10, 1774.”

Cook took possession of the Isle as he had done with all the others he had discovered and named it “Norfolk Isles” in honour of Duchess of Norfolk, from that noble family. Cook along with members of his crew including botanists, came ashore for one day and gave his first detailed description of the Island. The tall Norfolk Pine was of value to England and needed for the ship building and flax plants for sails for the English ships.

If you stroll down to the lower viewing area you have a stunning view towards Bird Rock, Elephant Rock, Cathedral Rock and more. This is a lovely place to watch the sea birds, have a nice afternoon break looking for passing whales or trying to spot a turtle in the lovely clear blue water. Don’t forget to take your camera, and if it is windy hold onto your hat.

In December 2024 the Norfolk Island Park and Botanic Garden installed a new set of binoculars at the Captain Cook Monument Lookout. These are free to use and are perfect to get a great view of the coastal sea birds as they fly past and up-close view of the small islands along the shoreline. Earlier this year my grandchildren enjoyed looking through the binoculars during our visit to the Captain Cook Reserve.

If you feel energetic and fit, you are welcome to explore the coastal tracks in the Norfolk Island National Park, which start at Mt Pitt, Red Road or Palm Glen Reserve. If hiking, please take refreshments, water, food, check weather conditions and be mindful of your fitness and allow time for the return walk, plus, remember your sun protection.

When driving out to Captain Cook Lookout Memorial Reserve, take care on the roadway, drive slowly, and enjoy your visit.

I also look forward to visiting the reserve during the month and will celebrate the 251st anniversary along with our wedding anniversary, which is also 10th October. Another good reason we call Norfolk Island our home.

Here are a few photos of Captain Cook Reserve and of the binoculars at the Captain Cook Monument Lookout.

Betty Matthews

17 October 2025