Nepean Island Map

Description:
This map shows coastline and trails of Nepean Island (Norfolk Island).

About Nepean Island

Nepean Island is a small uninhabited island located approximately 1 kilometer south of Norfolk Island in the South Pacific Ocean. The island has an area of 10 hectares (25 acres) and rises to a height of 32 meters (105 feet) above sea level. It is part of the Norfolk Island group and is administered by Australia as an external territory.

The island is composed of calcarenite limestone rock formations, which create steep cliffs around its perimeter. These geological features make access to the island challenging, with no safe landing spots except during exceptionally calm weather conditions. The relatively flat summit plateau of Nepean Island is sparsely vegetated, primarily with native grasses and small shrubs.

Nepean Island serves as a significant breeding ground for various seabird species, including masked boobies, black noddies, and sooty terns. The waters surrounding the island are part of the Norfolk Marine Park, which provides protection for the diverse marine ecosystem. Historical records indicate that the island was once used as a quarry during Norfolk Island's penal settlement period, with limestone extracted for construction projects on the main island. Today, the island is protected as part of the Norfolk Island National Park, and access is restricted to preserve its natural environment and bird colonies.