Malo Island

Travel Guide

People in kayaks on a clear turquoise sea with a forested island in the background.
A clear turquoise lake surrounded by dense green forest.
A turquoise beach with dense green foliage in the background.
A clear turquoise lake surrounded by dense green foliage.
A mangrove forest with a boat in the foreground.

Snorkel around the colorful coral reef, explore the pristine beaches and learn about the culture in the island’s tiny villages.

Malo Island is a small idyllic piece of land that sprang from a volcano, with scenic views in every direction. Inhabited by two groups of indigenous peoples, the island has a fascinating history steeped in tradition. Wander around the island at your own pace to encounter its caves, beaches and small villages.

Enjoy the hot summer weather with a stroll along the beaches that form a perimeter around the island. November to April is the hottest period and also the wettest. With a circumference of just 34 miles (55 kilometers), Malo Island is among the smallest islets in the Vanuatu archipelago. Make it your own charming vacation getaway.

Sunbathe to enhance your tan and cool down with a refreshing swim in the ocean waters. Bring snorkeling gear with you to the island for a chance to spot the fascinating subaquatic life around the coral reefs. The water is clean, clear and warm.

Get a sense of the local village life with a trip to Avunatari on the northwestern part of the island. The setting is a serene contrast to the larger towns of Vanuatu, such as Luganville and Port Vila. Stay at one of the guesthouses and bungalows in this tranquil town.

Explore one of the island’s various tropical plantations, which are responsible for the production of copra, cocoa, vanilla and kava. Climb to Malo Peak, the island’s highest point.

Malo Island is about 2 miles (3 kilometers) south of Espiritu Santo, which is the largest part of the Vanuatu archipelago. Contact various resorts and tour operators to arrange the trip. Boats to the island depart from a small port 9 miles (15 kilometers) west of Luganville and the ride should take about half an hour.

With its spectacular scenery and intriguing history, Malo Island offers a vacation filled with serenity, leisure and culture.

The Espiritu

The Espiritu

3 out of 5
Rue de Luganville Luganville Espiritu Santo
The price is P8,151 per night from Aug 13 to Aug 14
P8,151
P9,374 total
Aug 13 - Aug 14
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Luganville. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Unity Park and Luganville Market ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (152 reviews)
"What a wonderful hotel, the staff are really helpful & friendly, our room was quiet & spacious, beds were comfy & breakfast was a bonus! Great location, we had in room massages with Molly & they were fantastic!"

Reviewed on Jul 22, 2026

The Espiritu
Beachfront Resort

Beachfront Resort

3 out of 5
Red Corner Luganville Espiritu Santo
The price is P5,863 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
P5,863
P6,743 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this beach resort in Luganville. Enjoy free breakfast, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Luganville Market and Unity Park ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (116 reviews)
"The only problem was that the hot water was not enough for more than two people, and we were four. The staff was very kind and helpful, super nice people!"

Reviewed on Aug 5, 2026

Beachfront Resort
Ratua Private Island Resort

Ratua Private Island Resort

5 out of 5
Luganville Ratua Island Espiritu Santo
The price is P13,351 per night from Aug 19 to Aug 20
P13,351
P15,354 total
Aug 19 - Aug 20
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this luxury hotel in Ratua Island. Enjoy a full-service spa, a private beach, and a marina.
9/10 Wonderful! (24 reviews)
"Loved it, would definitely recommend it."

Reviewed on Jan 3, 2018

Ratua Private Island Resort
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Bombua Beach House

Bombua Beach House

3 out of 5
Canal Road Luganville Sanma Province
Book a stay at this beach villa in Luganville. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a free airport shuttle. Popular attractions SS President Coolidge and Santo ...
10/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
"We had 4 amazing days in Bombua Beach Hotel and Restaurant in Espiritu Santo Island in Vanuatu. Our Garden View villa was beautiful, very well designed and appointed. We loved its comfort and cosiness, high quality modern furniture, very comfy king bed with lovely linens and speedy Starlink internet. ..."

Reviewed on Jul 4, 2026

Bombua Beach House
Aore Breeze

Aore Breeze

2.5 out of 5
Aore Point Aore Island
Book a stay at this beach cabin in Aore Island. Enjoy free breakfast, a private beach, and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Popular attractions SS President Coolidge ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"Such a cool spot, great beach for beachcoming"

Reviewed on Sep 12, 2025

Aore Breeze
Mahimahi Villas

Mahimahi Villas

3 out of 5
Tides Reach Saraotou Espiritu Santo
Book a stay at this beach villa in Saraotou. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Mount Hope Waterfall and Santo Golf Course ...
10/10 Exceptional! (1 review)
"Jim's service and hospitality was way above and beyond any expectation. Nothing was ever a hassle, Jim did all our tour and dining bookings. He really did make our stay that so much more special as his service and friendliness was exceptional. . Highly recommended anyone to stay at Mahi Mahi ..."

Reviewed on Sep 30, 2017

Mahimahi Villas
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.