With bustling markets, long beaches and amazing wildlife, this tropical island has appeal for all tastes.
Swim in the warm blue-green sea and view turtles and dugongs in their natural habitats on Efate. Shop for unique, handmade souvenirs and clothing and visit tranquil beaches.
Step into Port Vila on the island’s southern coast to enjoy the town’s exciting, cosmopolitan atmosphere. Have lunch in Vila Market in the heart of the city. Gaze at shelves stacked with coconuts and juicy grapefruits along with counters of succulent, exotic fish that are brought here straight from the harbor and sold at excellent prices. Discover local craftspeople selling a variety of gifts and trinkets or check out the waterfront market for a huge selection of carved sculptures and coral jewelry.
After a morning among the friendly crowds, slip away to Eton along the eastern coast to discover beautiful gardens and endless bays of fine white sand. Eat a picnic in the shade of fragrant trees or swim and splash in the gentle waves. Go farther south in search of more hidden gems or to the northern coast with its golden shores of Saint Lawrence.
Just a 30-minute drive south from here lies Port Havannah. The western islands are a short ferry ride beyond. Check out the turtle sanctuary on Moso to see and understand these elegant creatures. Join a diving expedition for the chance of an unforgettable close-up encounter. Before you return to the mainland, explore Feles Cave on Lelepa where drawings from thousands of years ago adorn a network of underground passages.
Efate is the central island within the Vanuatu chain. Port Vila is its capital city. Fly here directly from Australia, New Zealand or Fiji and choose from a selection of hotels and villas in town. The island is also popular with cruise ships that frequent the harbor throughout the week. The weather is reliably warm and sunny year-round. Many experienced travelers choose to visit between January and June, outside of peak tourist season.
