The islands surrounding Efate offer unique experiences, ranging from tranquil beaches to cultural adventures. While Port Vila is the heart of Efate, an excursion to the neighbouring islands will allow you to discover another side of Vanuatu. Here is a guide to help you reach these islands and fully enjoy your island adventure.
1. Hideaway Island
Hideaway Island is one of the most accessible islands from Port Vila, and it is famous for its excellent snorkelling spots, including the world’s first underwater post office.
How to get there: Hideaway Island is located about 10 minutes by car from Port Vila, in Mele Bay. From Mele Bay beach, you can take a shuttle boat that regularly travels between Mele beach and the island. Once you arrive on the island, you will need to pay a 2,000 vatu day pass per person to spend the day there.
Transfer frequency: Boat transfers are frequent throughout the day, and the ride only takes a few minutes.
2. Lelepa Island
Lelepa Island, located northwest of Efate, is a peaceful island ideal for history and culture enthusiasts. It is home to fascinating archaeological sites and beaches perfect for snorkelling.
How to get there: To reach Lelepa Island, first head to "Gideon’s Landing," located about 30 minutes by car from Port Vila. There, you can request one of the banana boats to take you to the village of Lelepa. Expect to pay between 700 and 1,000 vatu for the simple crossing, which takes around 15 minutes. Once on the island, you will need a guide to explore, costing an additional 1,500 vatu.
Guided tours: Several private providers offer full-day tours to Lelepa Island. The tours include transfers from and to your hotel, boat rides, various stops for snorkelling, cave visits, and village tours, as well as lunch and snacks. Your local guide will help you fully enjoy the island’s stories and cultural sites.
3. Nguna and Pele Islands
These two islands, located north of Efate, offer authentic village life experiences, pristine beaches, and activities like hiking and snorkelling.
How to get there: You can access Nguna and Pele by taking a boat from Emua Wharf, a village about an hour’s drive from Port Vila. You can get there by taxi, private transfer, or rental car. The boat ride between the wharf and Pele or Nguna takes around 20 minutes.
It is possible to book the boat ride through local operators for 3,000 vatu per boat. You can also opt for the "taxi boat", costing 500 vatu per person, but you will need to wait until the boat is full before departure.
Guided tours: Day tours are also offered by local tour operators, making it easier to book.
For Nguna, a guide or local operator is essential to hike to the summit, as you will pass through several villages.
4. Moso Island
Moso Island is an ideal destination for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere. It is known for its rich marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkelling.
How to get there: First, head to "Gideon’s Landing," located about 30 minutes by car from Port Vila. From there, you can request one of the banana boats to take you to one of the villages on Moso Island. Expect to pay between 700 and 1,000 vatu for the crossing, which takes about 15 minutes. Once on the island, you will need a guide to get around, costing an additional 1,500 vatu.
Guided tours: Several private operators offer full-day tours to Moso, including snorkelling, exploring deserted beaches, or visiting a village on this preserved island.
5. Eretoka Island (Hat Island)
Eretoka Island, nicknamed "Hat Island" due to its distinctive shape, is a culturally and historically important site for the Ni-Vanuatu, as it is reputed to be the resting place of the ancient King Roy Mata.
How to get there: Cultural excursions often include a visit to Hat Island. The starting point is either at "Mangalilu" or "Kings Landing," about 20 minutes by car from Port Vila. The boat transfer takes about 20 minutes.
Guided tours: A local guide is essential to visit this island. Your guide will explain the historical significance of the island and lead you through the archaeological sites of Roy Mata, which are UNESCO World Heritage listed. Several local providers propose this tour, and it is important to organise it the day before your desired visit.
Practical Tips for Exploring the Surrounding Islands
- Plan ahead: While some islands are easily accessible, others require advance boat reservations or arrangements with local guides.
- Bring cash: The small islands often lack ATMs or banking services, so make sure to bring enough cash to pay for excursions, food, or souvenirs.
- Respect local culture: The islands around Efate are home to small communities that take pride in their traditions. Be respectful of local customs and always ask for permission before taking photos in the villages.