New Caledonia Travel Wiki

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Travel to New Caledonia

The main island of Grande Terre is around 350 kilometres in length, so the best way to explore it fully is by hiring a car. Much of the island is home to open countryside with a fascinating mix of flora and fauna, and there are a large number of delightfully isolated coves and picturesque inlets along the coastline. There is something to suit all tastes, budgets and ages in New Caledonia, so if you’ve never been before you should be making plans to visit in the immediate future.

There are a number of idyllic villages throughout the country, and each of them offers a wonderful opportunity to get away from it all. If you prefer to stay among the bright lights and the bustling nightlife, however, you should look for accommodation in Nouméa; it’s the country’s capital and is located on the south-east coastline of the main island, Grand Terre. With everything from backpacker hostels, opulent hotels and family-run bed and breakfasts to choose from, you will have to make a decision about where to establish a base in New Caledonia during your stay.

What to see and do in New Caledonia ?

As you might expect from an island with a long coastline, water sports are a particular favourite with travellers from all over the world to New Caledonia. Some of the best snorkelling can be enjoyed in the beautiful blue waters around Amedee Lighthouse Island, a remote location to the south of Nouméa which can be reached by boat.

There are so many wonderful beaches to choose from, a fact which explains why holidays to New Caledonia should be on everyone’s wish-list. If you prefer your beaches quiet and relatively unspoilt, you should take a trip to Ilot Maitre. It can get busy at weekends when the locals come out to play, but during the week it’s a genuine slice of paradise.

The South Pacific is home to a unique heritage, and visitors can find out more about it at the Tjibaou Cultural Center in Nouméa. Most tourists will undoubtedly want to spend their time at the beach, but if you’re in the mood to find out more about your chosen destination, this is the place to start. It’s a fascinating place and is home to a number of impressive exhibits.

Directly to the north of Nouméa, you can enjoy a few hours of relaxing fun at Dumbea Public Golf Course, a facility that’s open to tourists of all ages. The climate in New Caledonia lends itself perfectly to a round of golf; so if you feel the need to get away from the beach for a while, you can tee off in style here.

Throughout the islands you’ll find plenty of opportunities for some retail therapy, and while the shops can be fun, you’ll probably enjoy the markets even more. Locally-grown fruits are particularly delicious, and you’ll find a great selection of beautiful clothing to choose from. Be sure to haggle while you shop, because that’s the best way to get the bargains