The blue holes make Vanuatu truly unique! Each one is distinct, offering a special experience and atmosphere that makes visiting them all worthwhile.

Blue lagoon, Efate

On Efate, you’ll find one blue hole: the Blue Lagoon, located a 45-minute drive from downtown Port Vila. The site is well-prepared for spending a half or full day with family or friends. An entrance fee (cash only) is required. Food options on-site are limited. The Blue Lagoon is very popular among locals on weekends, creating a lively atmosphere—you’ll likely see skilled acrobats jumping into the water using the ropes set up for this purpose. For a quieter experience, consider visiting during the week.

Matevulu Blue Hole, Espiritu Santo

The first and closest, Matevulu, is the largest of Santo blue holes and is only a short 45 minute paddle away, directly opposite Oyster Island Resort. Paddling up the crystal river to reach the swimming lagoon is an experience in itself – like being lost in the Amazon! It takes about 30 minutes to paddle up the river (you can also drive direct to the blue hole – just follow the signs from the highway). Once at the blue hole you are rewarded at the end with a great swimming area and a giant rope swing tied onto a large banyan tree. There are also toilets there.

Malo Blue Hole, Espiritu Santo

The second, Ri Ri, is by far the prettiest blue hole/crystal river out of all the Santo blue holes. It is another 45 minute paddle farther south of Matevulu Blue Hole. Paddling up the entrance lagoon and crystal river is nothing short of magical! You can also visit both these blue holes by car as well, and at Ri Ri Blue hole you can choose to have locals paddle you up via outrigger canoe (ask the locals near the bridge going over the Ri Ri river).

You can also visit the blue hole on the island of Malo. This visit needs to be arranged in advance through a local provider or the local travel centre.

Nanda Blue Hole, Espiritu Santo

The third blue hole, Nanda or Jackie’s Blue Hole is located at the top of Turtle Bay (about 1.5 – 2hr paddle north of the house). You can kayak there from the house however it is a long paddle (2hrs +) and only recommended for experienced sea kayakers. Make sure to paddle up the river on an incoming high tide (stay to the left) – its about 4km to reach the blue hole but its’ definitely worth the effort (like being in the Amazon without the crocs or nasties).

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Hog Harbour Blue Hole, Espiritu Santo

Finally there are a few more “hidden” Santo blue holes farther north along the coastline that are also worth exploring. The first one (which we call the Secret Blue Hole or Hog Harbour Blue Hole) is located about 1.4 km after the turn-off to Champagne Beach – there’s no sign just a hut and some seats on the right hand side of the road with a track leading down to the swimming lagoon. It is one of the only Santo blue holes with a direct connection to the ocean.

Riri Blue Hole, Espiritu Santo

The second, Ri Ri, is by far the prettiest blue hole/crystal river out of all the Santo blue holes. It is another 45 minute paddle farther south of Matevulu Blue Hole. Paddling up the entrance lagoon and crystal river is nothing short of magical! You can also visit both these blue holes by car as well, and at Ri Ri Blue hole you can choose to have locals paddle you up via outrigger canoe (ask the locals near the bridge going over the Ri Ri river).

Frequently Asked Questions

Blue holes are freshwater swimming pools fed by underground springs, often an intense turquoise against jungle and limestone. Santo has the best-known cluster, with rope swings, crystal rivers and picnic clearings that make them a highlight rather than a quick stop. Efate has the Blue Lagoon closer to Port Vila. They are popular because they are cool, photogenic and easy to enjoy without specialist gear.
Espiritu Santo is the island most visitors associate with blue holes, including Matevulu, Riri and Nanda. Efate has the Blue Lagoon, a lively half-day option from Port Vila. A few other islands have freshwater pools, but Santo is where you go if swimming in blue holes is the main reason for the trip. Allow a full day if you want to visit more than one.
Many blue holes have shallow edges, shade and picnic space, so families use them as swimming holes rather than ocean reefs. Conditions vary: some have deeper centres, rope swings and uneven entries, so supervise children and stay within your comfort. A simple float can help less confident swimmers. Go on a weekday if you prefer a quieter scene.