Vanuatu is a South Pacific island nation made up of roughly 80 islands. While it remains off the radar for many travelers, Vanuatu has started gaining attention for its stunning beaches, underwater sights, rugged volcanoes, and fascinating local culture. For those willing to venture to this archipelago, Vanuatu offers hidden gem destinations waiting to be uncovered. Let’s explore some of the best kept secrets Vanuatu has to offer.
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Hidden Beaches
Vanuatu boasts some of the best beaches in the South Pacific. While the most popular are on the main island of Efate, such as Hideaway Island, there are many more secluded beaches spread throughout the islands.
Champagne Beach
Champagne Beach on the island of Espiritu Santo gets its name from the underwater springs that cause the water to bubble like champagne. The soft white sand beach is lined with coconut trees and offers excellent snorkeling. Visit during the week to avoid crowds.
Matantas Beach
Matantas Beach is located on Santo Island, just south of Luganville. The long stretch of beach features swimmable blue waters and fine white sand. Relax under the shade of coconut trees or snorkel around the underwater rock formations.
Hideaway Island
Despite its name, Hideaway Island is one of the most visited beaches in Vanuatu due to its close proximity to Port Vila. Visitors can walk across a short causeway to this protected marine sanctuary. Snorkel around coral reefs teeming with tropical fish.
Underwater Wonders
In addition to pristine beaches, Vanuatu offers exceptional scuba diving and snorkeling. Some underwater sights unique to Vanuatu include historic shipwrecks, coral dive sites, and mysterious blue holes.
SS President Coolidge Shipwreck
The SS President Coolidge was a luxury liner that became a WWII troopship before hitting friendly mines and sinking. Today, the wreck provides scuba divers the chance to explore a massive shipwreck with accessible depths perfect for beginners.
Million Dollar Point
After WWII, the US military dumped surplus war vehicles and equipment off Million Dollar Point. Get up close to bulldozers, trucks, and small planes that are now encrusted with coral.
Blue Holes
Blue holes around Epi Island allow divers to explore dramatic underwater cave systems with unique sea life like sponges, corals, and reef fish. Professional dive guides are recommended.
Volcanic Landscapes
Vanuatu sits on the Pacific “Ring of Fire” making it home to several active volcanoes. These volcanoes have created some striking landscapes.
Mt. Yasur Volcano
Mt. Yasur on Tanna Island provides some of the world’s most accessible volcano views. Visitors can hike right up to the crater’s edge to witness bursts of lava exploding into the night sky.
Lake Letas
Lake Letas fills the crater left behind by a dormant volcano on Gaua Island. Take a boat ride on this stunning blue crater lake surrounded by lush jungle.
The Rocky Summit of Ambrym Island
The rocky moon-like landscape at the summit of Ambrym Island resulted from volcanic activity. Witness steaming fumaroles and walk around massive craters.
Traditional Villages
Vanuatu still maintains a strong indigenous culture with kava drinking, native dances, and traditional village life.
Pentecost Land Diving
Pentecost Island is home to the original bungee jumping, with men leaping from tall towers with only vines wrapped around their ankles. Watch local men perform this exhilarating custom that inspired modern bungee jumping.
Local Produce Markets
Visit open air markets across Vanuatu’s islands to browse produce, handmade crafts, and sample local dishes like lap lap, fried fish, and curry. Port Vila and Luganville have the largest markets.
Custom Villages
Take a guided village tour to learn about everyday life and customs. Witness a traditional kava ceremony, see native architecture, and gain insight into Vanuatu’s matriarchal society.
Secluded Islands
Vanuatu has no shortage of secluded islands where you can escape to tranquility and natural beauty. Here are some top picks:
Mystery Island
This aptly named small island near Aneityum offers pristine beaches, coral reefs and barely anyone else around. Mystery Island lives up to its peaceful, secluded reputation.
Aneityum Island
The southernmost island in Vanuatu, Aneityum has dense jungle, secluded beaches and extraordinary marine life perfect for snorkeling. Get around by foot, bike or boat.
Aniwa Island
Aniwa Island has stunning turquoise bays, quiet beaches, and friendly locals. Experience a slower pace of life and learn about native customs in this off the beaten path locale.
Conclusion
For those seeking unspoiled tropical beauty and unique adventures, Vanuatu offers so much to discover. World class wreck dives, active volcanoes, secluded beaches, fascinating culture and remote islands – Vanuatu has these in spades if you’re willing to venture off the major tourist routes. Prepare to be awed by the diversity, natural wonders and hidden gems scattered across Vanuatu’s islands. With minimal development and infrastructure, Vanuatu retains an untouched paradise vibe. For intrepid travelers, Vanuatu should be at the top of your bucket list.
FAQs
What is the best way to get around Vanuatu?
The easiest way to island hop around Vanuatu is by plane. Air Vanuatu and Air Taxi offer regular flights between the major islands. Ferries and cargo ships provide a cheaper but slower option between islands.
When is the best time to visit Vanuatu?
The best time to visit Vanuatu is during the dry season from May to October. During this period, rainfall is minimal providing sunny, drier weather ideal for exploring, along with calmer seas for boating and diving.
What should I pack for a trip to Vanuatu?
Pack light breathable clothing, swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, hiking shoes, motion sickness tablets for boat rides, and a flashlight with spare batteries. Bring cash in local currency as ATMs have limited availability.
Do I need any vaccinations to travel to Vanuatu?
No vaccinations are required except for yellow fever if you’re arriving from an infected area. However, it’s recommended to be up to date on routine vaccines like tetanus. Consult your doctor about anti-malaria medication.
What is the cuisine like in Vanuatu?
Local Ni-Vanuatu cuisine involves fresh seafood like fish, prawns, lobster along with root vegetables and fruits like mangos and pineapples. Try lap lap, the national dish made of grated root vegetables and coconut milk wrapped in banana leaves. Kava is the national drink. Western food is also readily available.