Destination Guide: Vanuatu

Vanuatu is a beautiful island getaway with some of the friendliest natives you will ever meet. The best thing about Vanuatu is that you can choose to do as much or as little as you like and still have the perfect honeymoon.

Where to go

Hideaway Island
Stop by Hideaway Island for great, easily-accessible snorkelling and a truly relaxing setting. Hideaway is also home to the world’s one and only underwater post office. Visit Cascade Waterfalls, which is only a 20 minute walk and boasts amazing views, a large waterfall and numerous plunge pools.

Port Vila
Port Vila is the capital city of Vanuatu’s main island, Efaté. You will find many resorts in and around Port Vila, as well as shopping, sightseeing and restaurants. Wander the markets for amazing fresh fruit and to experience the local way of life up close.

What to do

Snorkelling, scuba diving and glass bottom boats
Enjoy the beautiful coral reefs with a day of casual snorkelling, or learn to dive with one of the island’s beginner courses. For a romantic treat, give night snorkelling a try.

Coongoola Cruise
This cruise is a great way to see Vanuatu’s islands while enjoying a day out and about. Visit Tranquillity Island’s Turtle Sanctuary, stop for some snorkelling, indulge in a beach barbecue and hopefully spot some dolphins along the way. You might also like to try the Meridian Sunset Cruise –a romantic two hour cruise from Port Vila which includes drinks and nibbles, and of course a beautiful sunset.

Lelepa Island
This full day tour takes you to Lelepa Island where you can visit the historical caves, purchase handcrafts and artefacts from the village, go bush walking, snorkelling, fishing, and enjoy a barbecue lunch of local beef, chicken, salads and tropical fruit.

Tanna Island
On the beautiful Tanna Island you will find Mt Yasur, the world’s most accessible active volcano. If you can make the trip, standing at the top of the volcano is a sight not to be missed. Other highlights include the lush rainforests, traditional villages, ancient ceremonies, deep blue water and waves perfect for surfing.

Where to stay

Just like any tropical tourist destination, Vanuatu is full of amazing resorts. You are unlikely to be disappointed with any considering your serene surroundings. For the best range of 5 star accommodation, visit the islands of Tanna, Espiritu Santo, Pentecost and Efaté.

Knot recommends: Breakas Beach Resort, Sunset Bungalows, Le Lagon Resort and Iririki Island Resort & Spa for honeymooners.

Where to eat

Thanks to the French influence in Vanuatu, the food is spectacular. Most resorts offer a great menu, but don’t forget to leave your accommodation and explore the many other options available. Signature dishes of the island include coconut crab and Vanuatu beef.

Knot recommends: Tilly’s at Chantilly’s on the Bay, Paradise Cove, and Breaka’s Beach Resort.

When to go

The best time for honeymooners to make their way to Vanuatu is during the dry season of May to October. The average temperature is 23 degrees during this time. The summer wet season runs from November until April, with heavy rains in January and an average humid temperature of 28 degrees.

Entry requirements

To visit the beautiful islands of Vanuatu, Australian citizens do not need a visa when staying 30 days or less. You will however need a valid passport and a return or onward ticket.