Top 5 things to do in New Caledonia

Bienvenue en Nouvelle Caledonie - Welcome to New Caledonia

Want to experience the flavours of France while unwinding in a tropical South Pacific paradise? We’ve got just the place for you. Just a short two-hour flight from Brisbane, New Caledonia is a group of islands that blend French culture with palm-fringed beaches. But don’t expect berets, striped shirts, or mimes expecting to wander into an Edith Piaf fever dream as La Vie En Rose plays in your head. Instead, you’ll be welcomed by Kanaks, French, Wallisians and Futunians, Indonesians, Tahitians, Ni-Vanuatu, Vietnamese, and many others who all contribute to the rich cultural mix that defines New Caledonia. One thing’s certain, though, you’ll enjoy some of the finest baguettes and pastries outside of France. C’est la vie, sous les tropiques.

So, if you are feeling that travel itch and decide to put New Caledonia to the top of your vacation destination list, here are the top five things to do in New Caledonia:

1. Eat, eat, eat - Bon Appétit

With more than ten different ethnic groups dicing and spicing up a feast, you will be sampling food from all over the world while visiting this small island nation. From Vietnamese to Tahitian, and of course French and Kanak, you will be able to find a meal to satisfy every palate.

For the adventurous foodie, New Caledonia does not disappoint. With local delicacies such as Bougna (meaning ingredients that are bundled together) a traditional New Caledonian dish and Escargot de L'Ile Des Pine (Isle of Pines Snails) on the menu, you will definitely have an interesting food-based story to tell your friends back home. For those who want to dial the food adventure back a touch, New Caledonia is also famous for its Venison, Mangrove Oysters and Crab, Coconut Crab, New Caledonian Blue Prawns and its all-year-round buffet of seafood and fish.  

2. Life's a beach in Noumea

With so many islands, isles and islets dotted in the lagoon of New Caledonia, experts have given up trying to counting them - so you can only imagine the variety of stunning beaches you have to choose from. If you don't want to stray too far from the capital city, you have a number of glorious beaches to enjoy at your doorstop. For those who fancy a bit of lounging and luxury, Le Fare du Palm Beach (located right next to Palm Beach shopping centre) is ideal for a beachside breakfast, daytime soak in the sun or a romantic sunset cocktail (or three).

If you're more of the active type, then head over to Anse Vata for windsurfing, kayaking and paddle boarding, with several providers on the beach offering introductory courses and equipment for hire. Finally, if you are looking for a fun activity for the whole family, you can head to the Aquarium of the Lagoons, nestled between Baie des Citrons and Anse Vata Bay. This new aquarium faces the sea, allowing visitors to discover all the richness of the New Caledonian lagoon, as well as a hall of fluorescent corals and an outdoor pool with turtles. 

3. Shop Noumea

Being New Caledonia's capital, Noumea is the biggest city by size and population, being home to 35% of New Caledonia's population. Noumea is also the country's shopping capital, from local boutiques and souvenir shops, to bigger brands like Kookai, Camaieu and beyond. Try visiting one of the popular markets in Noumea, such as the Port Moselle Market – New Caledonia's largest market, located next to the Port Moselle marina. 

4. Go island hopping: Loyalty Islands and Isle of Pines

With the islands of Lifou, Mare and Ouvea in the East, and the Isle of Pines in the South, there is a variety of unique scenery and experiences you can discover. 

Ouvéa attempts to rival Queensland's Whitevaven Beach with a fabulous beach of white sand stretching for almost 25km, majestic coconut plantations and extraordinary diving sites, especially around the Pléïades Reef. Lifou is a photographers paradise, with its variety of scenery, combining immaculate beaches, steep cliffs, deep forests and impressive caves. Maré introduces its visitors to the Mareans and their deep connection with nature, which has given this island its own unique identity.  

Isle of Pines, accessible by boat and plane, is one of New Caledonia's most beloved tourist sights, but is appreciated in such a way that it doesn't compromise the soul or authenticity of the area. The Kuto, Oro, Upi, Kanumera Bays make up the Isle of Pines where you can live your day like a celebrity, and bask in your own remote island resort experience amongst this collection of New Caledonian islands. 

5. Explore Bourail

Located within a two-hour drive from Noumea is New Caledonia's second largest city, Bourail. Featuring an 18-hole exclusive Golf Déva golf course it's perfect for those who wish to spend a day on the green. Surfing enthusiasts may also find Bourail their new utopia with Roche Percée beach, a little-known destination that invites you and your surfboard to a nice swell, four-foot waves, and clear, warm water – just be cautious of submerged rocks. Finally, for those who want to sit back and relax, Bourail is perfect for a spot of glamping, complete with safari-style tents and bungalows.