Think Vanuatu Is Just Beaches and Sun Lounges? Think Again

Tropical islands can often be misunderstood as merely ‘flop and drop’ destinations – places where all you can do is lay on a sun lounge and bask in the sunshine, while you order another pineapple garnished cocktail and very little else. While Vanuatu certainly delivers on clean beaches, turquoise waters and numerous resorts with suitable sun lounges, this South Pacific nation offers far more than relaxing by the sea.

Vanuatu is an archipelago of more than 80 islands in the South Pacific. Easily accessible from major cities in Australia, just 2.5 hours flight from Brisbane and 3.5 hours from Sydney making it a very appealing holiday destination.

Land based adventures

Vanuatu caters to travellers of all fitness levels and interests, offering a wide range of land based adventures. Just a short drive from Port Vila is the family-friendly attraction, Eden on the River, which offers visitors the chance to venture into the valley and cross suspension bridges over the river and swim and float on tubes in the cool river waters.

Hiking

For those who enjoy hiking the various islands natural landscapes offer mountains, forests, caves and jungles for visitors to experience a different perspective. One of the most popular hikes is the volcano hike on Tanna Island. Hikers take a 4WD vehicle most of the way up Mt Yasur and then walk 15 minutes to the craters edge – an unforgettable adventure. Vanuatu is home to multiple active volcanoes spanning the archipelago, including 7 land-based and 2 underwater volcanoes.

Adrenaline

High adrenaline adventure awaits as well with Vanuatu Jungle Zipline there are a range of eco adventure experiences here from a 65 metre high suspension bridge to the giant canyon swing or the 1.3km zipline.

Culture

Vanuatu has a vibrant island culture and visitors can experience this in the capital of Port Vila with a visit to the Central Market where local produce is sold daily. Stallholders greet everyone with a warm smile and the literal fruits of their labour including pineapples, coconuts, peanuts, limes, mangoes, papaya, taro and fresh tropical flowers. There is also a handicraft market on the waterfront selling items made by local women. A great place to gather souvenirs from your trip including woven baskets, hand painted sarongs and t-shirts, jewellery, wood carvings and fans. To take a deeper dive into learning about local culture there a number of guided village tours available to learn about the local way of life.

Water based adventures

Diving

Water activities are of course a big attraction with crystal clear waters teeming with marine life and spectacular coral reefs. Snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities abound on the main island of Efate and the outer islands. Take a day trip to Pele Island where you can meet the local villagers and snorkel directly off the beach. Then take a short boat trip to the drop off where the coral varieties bloom in spectacular rainbow colours. Top Rock is also a popular snorkelling location nearby on a rocky outcrop on the main island of Efate.

Vanuatu is also renowned for World War II shipwreck dives, such as the USS Tucker and the SS President Coolidge and Million Dollar Point. There are also spectacular coral reefs to explore including Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary (and underwater post box), Mele Reef, Aore Island Reefs and Owen’s Reef.

Swimming

Unique swimming experiences abound in Vanuatu, waterfalls such a Mele and Rarru Cascades and the Blue Lagoon are popular spots on Efate and the opportunity to swim with dugongs and turtles beckon visitors to Espiritu Santo. Some of these experiences can be explored independently while others require an organised tour.

Surfing

Vanuatu offers great surfing conditions with the best surf season falling between March and December. There are numerous surf breaks, delivering waves averaging up to two metres high and 40 metres long. Some of the well-known breaks include Breakas, Devils Point, Erakor Reef, Pounders and Tapi Point. There are other more untouched surfing locations in the outer islands where you are likely to be the only one in the surf.

Fishing

With such abundant marine life, fishing is a popular pastime and there are many fishing charter companies that take anglers out to try their hand at sports, spear or deep sea fishing. Some of the species on the catch list include Marlin, Dogtooth Tuna, Yellowfin Tuna, Wahoo, Mahi-Mahi and Giant Trevally.

Kayaking

Exploring the waters from above is also popular with kayaking on both sea and river available. Many resorts have kayaks and stand up paddle boards for hire or visitors can join organised tours that provide all the equipment. Jetski’s are also available for hire in Port Vila Harbour.

With its diverse landscape, vibrant culture and world class marine experiences Vanuatu dispels the myth of being just a ‘flop and drop’ tropical destination. Whether you are seeking adrenaline, cultural immersion or getting up close with nature Vanuatu has much to offer beyond the sun lounge.

How to get to Vanuatu?

From Australia, there are direct flights to Port Vila from Brisbane and Sydney with Qantas and Virgin.

Where to stay in Vanuatu?

Depending on your budget, and what type of holiday you are looking for, there are five star resorts, mid range hotels, home-stays and guesthouses and holiday houses to choose from in Vanuatu!

For a mid range option, I like the look of Hideaway Island Resort, and for a top end option, Iriki Island Resort and Spa, consistently gets good reviews.

Think Vanuatu Is Just Beaches and Sun Lounges ? Think Again

Think Vanuatu Is Just Beaches and Sun Lounges? Think Again