Welcome to New Caledonia, a hidden paradise in the Pacific Ocean and home to world’s largest coral reef lagoon, that is unlike any other holiday destination you have ever experienced.
This French overseas territory is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly unique and unforgettable vacation, easily reached within 2-hour flight from Australia, Brisbane and 3-hour from Sydney.
New Caledonia – ‘The island closest to heaven’.
Located in the South Pacific, New Caledonia is often overlooked by travelers, which is why it’s perfect for those who want to escape the crowds and experience a truly unique and tranquil getaway to a tropical paradise. What’s interesting it is the most popular honey moon destination for Japanese couples, since the island was a shooting location for ” The Island Closest to Heaven” movie.
One of the main draws of New Caledonia is its exceptional natural beauty. The island is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, from lush rainforests to arid savannahs. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes on foot, by bike, or even on horseback. For those who prefer to get up close and personal with the local flora and fauna, there are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and wildlife spotting.
Island hooping in New Caledonia.
One of the most popular and adventurous activities in tropical island hooping in New Caledonia. The islands are easily accessible from well-developed capital city port – Noumea, with number of excursions, half or day-trips offered by local operators. Every morning tens of luxury yachts and speed boats embark Noumea harbour heading to one of the neighbouring paradise islands. The most visited are Isle of Pines (easily reachable with half-an hour flight from Noumea), white sand Ouvea, Duck Island or magnificent Amedee Lighthouse Island.
New Caledonia is home to World’s largest coral reef lagoon!
What makes New Caledonia a high-profile paradise destination is the fact, it is home to the world’s largest lagoon, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This lagoon is a haven for marine life, including colourful fish, mantas and sea turtles, making it a favourite spot for snorkelling and diving with its crystal-clear Pacific waters. You can even go on a glass-bottom boat tour to see the underwater world up close without getting wet. Apart from the lagoon, New Caledonia is also known for its stunning beaches, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. Or you can simply take water taxi to spend few hours on desirable paradise island.
Explore the island by car
New Caledonia is a well-developed country that has managed to maintain its natural beauty and charm while still offering modern amenities. All Caledonian islands are very safe with very little crime rate. The island is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare bird species and exotic plants. Visitors can explore the island’s lush forests and marvel at its stunning waterfalls, or take a relaxing stroll along its idyllic beaches. While it is possible to reach some of the sights by public coaches, if you wish to really explore the wonders of the island, renting a car is the right idea. With good road infrastructure, driving around the island is easy and enjoyable and will let you discover Bourail region with magnificent Bonhomme de Bourail beach with unique rock formation, near the Turtle Bay.
Indoor and Outdoor activities
Speaking of activities, New Caledonia is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, with colourful coral reefs and an abundance of marine life just waiting to be explored. Visitors can also try their hand at paddleboarding, kayaking, and windsurfing, or take a relaxing boat tour around the island to soak up the scenery. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, New Caledonia offers plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. You can take a scenic hike through the island’s lush rainforest, go horseback riding along its picturesque trails, or simply relax on one of its many beautiful beaches. And if you’re interested in culture and history, you can visit one of the island’s many museums and cultural centres to learn more about its rich heritage and traditions.
Discover Kanak Culture & Arts of New Caledonia.
But New Caledonia isn’t just about beaches and water activities. The island is also rich in culture and history, with a unique blend of French and Melanesian influences. You can visit the capital city of Noumea to see colonial-style architecture, museums, and art galleries.
Or you can explore the Kanak culture by visiting the Tjibaou Cultural Center, which showcases traditional crafts, music, and dance performances.
Try Delicious fresh sea food
If you’re a foodie, you’ll love New Caledonia’s cuisine, which features a fusion of French and Pacific Island flavours. Seafood is a staple, with fresh fish, lobster, and prawns being some of the most popular dishes. You can also try local delicacies like bougna, a dish made with root vegetables, coconut milk, and meat or fish, cooked in banana leaves. The island’s cuisine is a reflection of its diverse cultural influences, with French, Melanesian, and Asian flavours all coming together to create a truly unique culinary experience.
Where to stay in Caledonia?
When it comes to accommodation, New Caledonia has something for every type of traveler. You can stay in luxurious beachfront resorts, eco-friendly lodges, or budget-friendly guesthouses. Most people would be speaking basic English, which is widely used in all service points, hotels and restaurants. So, pack your bags, book your ticket, get familiar with Travel guide to New Caledonia and experience the ultimate escape in this Pacific destination.
