There is no better way to experience Vanuatu than staying with local people in the places and special locations that their family have owned for generations. Without doubt you will find these island bungalows hidden in away in some of the most spots imaginable.
Island Bungalows vary in the services and facilities they provide, however the hospitality and welcome is second to none.
If you are seeking an experience that is purely Vanuatu, staying in an Island Bungalow is for you.
HINT – some of the best island bungalows can be found on Vanuatu’s outer islands
Frequently Asked Questions
Island bungalows offer a stay with local families in places those families have owned for generations, often in quieter coastal or village settings. Unlike resorts, the focus is hospitality and daily island life rather than pools, spas and on-site restaurants. Facilities vary, but the welcome is consistently warm. If you want a holiday that feels purely Vanuatu, this is the stay style that delivers it.
Most bungalows are family- or community-run, so you are staying as a guest of the people who live there. Meals are often cooked by the household and shared on site, and you will usually meet neighbours and see how the village works. That closeness is the point of the stay. Treat the property as someone's home: ask before photographing, dress modestly in the village, and settle bills in cash.
Comfort is simple rather than hotel-standard. Expect a private or shared bungalow, meals that are often included, and bathrooms that may be shared. Electricity can be limited to certain hours, and hot water is not always available. Book ahead for outer islands, bring cash, and pack a torch and insect repellent so the stay feels easy.