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New Caledonia

Latest update.

Reconsider your need to travel to New Caledonia due to ongoing civil unrest and travel disruptions.

New Caledonia.pdf (PDF 875.64 KB)

Pacific (PDF 1.27 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services.

Call 18.

Medical emergencies

Call 15 or go directly to the medical centre or hospital.

Call 17 or contact the nearest police station or gendarmerie.

Maritime emergencies

Call 16 or radio on VHF 16 – Inmarsat – MMSI.

Advice levels

Reconsider your need to travel to New Caledonia.

• We continue to advise reconsider your need to travel to New Caledonia due to ongoing civil unrest and travel disruptions. Political tensions and unrest may increase at short notice. Avoid areas where violence occurs and be alert to personal safety risks. There’s an increased police and security presence.
• Security incidents, including arson and carjacking continue across the country. Political demonstrations and protests may turn violent at short notice. There's a nationwide curfew in place nightly between 10pm and 5am. Essential services are impacted. Continue to follow the advice of local authorities. 
• Australian officials have been advised to follow heightened security measures, including while travelling through New Caledonia. 
• You can access La Tontouta International Airport by road. This can change at short notice. Roads have been damaged, and many have blockades in place. You'll need to assess your situation before travelling. Follow the advice of local authorities.
• Aircalin and Qantas are operating a limited number of flights each week. Schedules can change at short notice. Check with your airline (website and social media pages) for the most up-to-date information and contact the airline as required. Tontouta International Airport also provides information on its website and Facebook page , including on registered private transport companies . 
• Australians needing emergency consular assistance should contact the Australian Government's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas) or 1300 555 135 (within Australia). The  Australian Consulate-General in Noumea is open during normal business hours.
• If you require emergency medical care, call 15, and duty doctors will assess whether they will send a doctor or ambulance or advise alternative medical care for you. 
• Car theft, vehicle break-ins and household break-and-enters occur. Look after your belongings and always lock your car and accommodation.
• Cyclone season is from November to May, but cyclones and severe weather can occur at any time. They can cause landslides and flooding and may disrupt essential services. For more information read the  New Caledonia's cyclone alert system website (in French).
• New Caledonia can experience earthquakes, tsunamis and bushfires. A tsunami can arrive within minutes of a tremor or earthquake. Monitor the websites of the  New Caledonian Department of Emergency Management  (in French with safety instructions in English for cyclone alert levels) and the  New Caledonian Weather Bureau  (in French) for updates. Your tour operator or accommodation provider may also be able to provide advice.
• The  Consular Services Charter  details what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
• For consular assistance in New Caledonia, contact the  Australian Consulate-General in Noumea

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Insect-borne diseases such as  Dengue ,  Chikungunya  and  Zika  are risks in New Caledonia. ​Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof, and use insect repellent. If you're pregnant, discuss the risks of Zika virus with your doctor before you travel. 
• Outbreaks of Leptospirosis  are common, especially after heavy rain. Wear closed-in shoes. Avoid swimming in rivers or muddy water. Store food in enclosed containers and use a straw when drinking from cans.
• Other foodborne, waterborne, parasitic and infectious diseases occur. These include influenza, scabies and conjunctivitis. Get treatment if you have itchiness or skin lesions. In rural areas, drink boiled or bottled water. Tap water is generally safe to drink in towns.
• The standard of medical facilities in Noumea is high, but those in outlying areas are basic. Medical treatment is expensive. Search and rescue facilities are limited. Some parts of New Caledonia don't have mobile phone coverage. Ensure your travel insurance covers all your medical conditions and medical evacuation.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Understand the local laws. New Caledonia is an overseas territory of France. A mix of French and local laws apply. You must always have photo identification with you. 
• Under French marriage equality law, same sex marriage is legal in New Caledonia. New Caledonia remains socially conservative and visible same-sex relationships are not widely accepted outside Noumea. 
• Outside of tourist areas, standards of dress and behaviour are conservative. Dress and behave appropriately.
• You need permission from customary authorities to visit certain areas. If in doubt, follow local advice.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You likely won't need a visa for a tourist visit of up to 3 months. However, the total length of your stay must not exceed a total of 90 days over a period of 180 days (6 months). Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the  Consulate-General of France in Sydney or the Embassy of France  for the latest details.
• International passenger flights to and from New Caledonia may be suspended with little or no warning.
• Travel insurance is mandatory for entry to New Caledonia.
• Entry protocols apply to private sailboats and cruise ships visiting New Caledonia. All immigration procedures have to be completed in Noumea, with some approvals required prior to arrival.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• For consular assistance in New Caledonia, contact the  Australian Consulate-General in Noumea .

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, security situation.

We continue to advise reconsider your need to travel to New Caledonia due to ongoing civil unrest and travel disruptions. Political tensions and unrest may increase at short notice. There’s an increased police and security presence.

Security incidents, including arson and carjacking continue across the country. Political demonstrations and protests may turn violent at short notice. There's a nationwide curfew in place between 10pm and 5am. Essential services are impacted.

Australian officials have been advised to follow heightened security measures, including while travelling through New Caledonia.

You can access La Tontouta International Airport by road. This can change at short notice. Roads have been damaged, and many have blockades in place. You'll need to assess your situation before travelling. Follow the advice of local authorities. You can make your own way to the airport or hire the services of a registered transport company (Tontouta International Airport link to registered private transport companies -  Navettes | CCI Nouvelle-Calédonie Aéroports ).

Aircalin and Qantas are operating a limited number of flights each week. Schedules can change at short notice. Check with your airline (website and social media pages) for the most up-to-date information and contact the airline as required. Tontouta International Airport also provides information on its website and Facebook page .

Australians needing emergency consular assistance should contact the Australian Government's 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 (from overseas) or 1300 555 135 (within Australia).

If you require urgent medical care, call 15. Duty doctors will assess whether they will send a doctor or ambulance or advise alternative medical care for you.

Demonstrations and protests

There's an ongoing risk of politically motivated protests and civil unrest.

Demonstrations and protests and other events that draw large groups of people can quickly turn violent. 

To protect yourself:

• avoid demonstrations, public gatherings and roadblocks
• monitor the media and other sources for potential unrest
• follow the advice of local authorities

Politically-motivated protests, strikes and industrial disputes can lead to social unrest. They often disrupt essential services, including:

• local transport
• domestic flights
• international flights

If there's a protest or strike:

• check for up-to-date flight information before going to the airport
• ask your tour operator if it affects tourist services
• follow the instructions of local authorities

Demonstrations and protests may increase in the days leading up to and on days of national or commemorative significance. These include: 

• New Caledonia Day (24 September)
• 13th of each month (the anniversary of the 13 May protests)

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Swimming safety

Several shark attacks occurred in 2023. A fatal attack claimed the life of an Australian tourist in February at Chateau Royal Beach, following two similar attacks at the same beach in January and February, which resulted in life-threatening injuries.

Shark-proof nets have been installed in Noumea at sections of the Baie des Citrons and Chateau Royal-Meridien beaches. Watersports and swimming outside of these areas are permitted on an “own risk” basis. 

Both beaches are patrolled daily by lifeguards from 8.45am to 5pm during December to April and from 8.45am to 4pm during May to November. Chateau Royal-Meridien beach is open only during lifeguard surveillance hours. See the  Noumea Town Hall website (in French) for any updates on the lifeguard surveillance hours. Follow the advice and instructions of local authorities at all times.

More information on understanding shark safety in New Caledonia is available on the  New Caledonia Tourism  website (in English). 

Beaches in New Caledonia may be closed at short notice due to bad weather, shark sightings or during shark-catching campaigns. A red flag with a shark logo means beaches have been closed due to a shark sighting or shark-related incidents. Be alert to warning signs and follow the advice of local authorities at all times.

Beach evacuation procedures in New Caledonia may be less developed than those in Australia.

New Caledonia Tourism  advises visitors to:

• avoid areas where it is risky to swim, including ports, boat moorings, marinas, murky waters near drainage outlets or river mouths, and the Nouville Peninsula area in Noumea
• avoid swimming after periods of heavy rain or other weather events that agitate the water
• avoid swimming at dawn and dusk
• swim close to shore
• only swim at patrolled beaches that use a flag system. 

Patrolled beaches use the following flag system:

• Green flag: supervised swimming and no particular danger
• Orange flag: supervised swimming but dangerous conditions
• Red flag: swimming is prohibited
• A red flag with a shark logo: the beach has been closed due to a shark sighting or shark-related incident.

More Information:

• Water sports and activities
• Rescue and Surveillance Operational Center of New Caledonia (COSSNC) with information (in French) on shark risk .

Tours and adventure activities

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes adventure activities, such as scuba diving.

If you plan to do a tour or  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Roadside security incidents can occur suddenly. Dangerous incidents include:

• stone-throwing

Major routes have been affected.

Local authorities can close major roads without warning.

Petty crime

Car theft, vehicle break-ins, petty thefts and household break-and-enters occur.

Drink spiking can happen. If you're drugged, you'll be more vulnerable to theft and  assault .

To protect yourself from petty crime:

• look after your belongings when you're in public
• lock your car, hide your belongings and keep windows up
• don't leave food or drinks unattended
• never accept drinks, food, gum or cigarettes from strangers or new friends
• Partying safely

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Kidnapping can happen anywhere, anytime, including in destinations that are typically at lower risk.   

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.  

More information:  

• Kidnapping  

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. Terrorist attacks could occur anywhere and at any time. Be alert to possible threats, especially in public places. Terrorists may target tourist areas or other places frequented by foreigners and where large crowds may gather.

Climate and natural disasters

New Caledonia experiences  natural disasters  and  severe weather , such as:

• earthquakes  and  tsunamis

The  New Caledonian Department of Emergency Management (Sécurité Civile – DSCGR)  (in French) responds to natural disasters and severe weather. Safety instructions are available in English for cyclone alert levels. 

A free crisis hotline is activated if there's a natural disaster or emergency. The emergency hotline is +687 05 05 05 (French). Your tour operator or accommodation provider may also provide timely advice.

To protect yourself if a natural disaster occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• monitor local media and other sources
• keep in contact with friends and family

Get weather reports and disaster updates:

• Météo France Nouvelle-Calédonie  (in French)
• Fiji Meteorological Service
• Australian Bureau of Meteorology
• Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• Joint Typhoon Warning Center, US Navy

Follow the advice on staying safe when there's a natural disaster .

If you're travelling during cyclone season or after a natural disaster, contact your airline or tour operator to check if services are affected.

Cyclones and severe weather

Cyclone season is from November to May, but cyclones and severe weather can occur at other times.

The direction and strength of cyclones can change suddenly.

Cyclones and severe weather can bring:

• flooding waves on shore areas
• flooding and landslides
• disruptions to infrastructure and essential services

If there's a cyclone or severe tropical storm:

• you may get stuck in the area
• flights could be delayed or suspended
• available flights may fill quickly
• access to seaports could also be affected
• adequate shelter may not be available

New Caledonia has a 4-phase cyclone alert system:

1. PRE-ALERT: potential cyclone activity in the weather observation zone of New Caledonia — follow weather forecasts and bulletins ( Emergency Management New Caledonia - Pre-Alert instructions in English )

2. ALERT 1: a cyclone is approaching and may reach New Caledonia in the next 18 hours — prepare for a cyclone ( Emergency Management New Caledonia - Alert 1 instructions in English )

3. ALERT 2: a cyclone will hit New Caledonia in less than 6 hours — protect yourself and stay indoors ( Emergency Management New Caledonia – Alert 2 instructions in English ) 

4. SAFEGUARD PHASE: a cyclone is moving away — remain alert ( Emergency Management New Caledonia – Safeguard Phase instructions in English ) 

If a cyclone is approaching:

• know the evacuation plan for your hotel or cruise ship
• identify your local shelter
• monitor  New Caledonian Department of Emergency Management (Sécurité Civile - DSCGR)  (in French) with safety instructions in English for cyclone alert levels
• monitor  Météo France Nouvelle-Calédonie  (in French) for  cyclone updates
• monitor local radio

Once the SAFEGUARD PHASE is announced:

• take care leaving your shelter
• look out for debris
• avoid fallen electrical wires

Flooding and mudslides

Heavy rains can cause flooding and mudslides. These can lead to:

• deaths and injuries
• destruction of property
• evacuations

Earthquakes and tsunamis

New Caledonia occasionally experiences  earthquakes  and  tsunamis .

Tsunamis can happen within minutes of a nearby tremor or earthquake.

Ask your tour operator, host or accommodation provider about local procedures and what to do during an earthquake.

Tsunami risks are higher:

• in the East Coast
• in the Loyalty Islands
• in the Isle of Pines

To prepare yourself for earthquakes and tsunamis, you can:

• subscribe to tsunami alerts from the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• get earthquake updates from the  US Geological Service
• get tsunami updates from the  US Tsunami Warning Center

If there's an earthquake or tsunami:

• monitor tsunami updates
• move to higher ground if you're in a coastal or low-lying area

If you're near the coast, move immediately to high ground if advised by local authorities or if you:

• feel a strong earthquake that makes it hard to stand up
• feel a weak, rolling earthquake that lasts a minute or more
• see a sudden rise or fall in sea level
• hear loud and unusual noises from the sea

Don't wait for official warnings such as alarms or sirens.

Once on high ground, monitor local media.

After an earthquake:

• expect aftershocks
• be prepared for delays and changes to your travel plans
• ask your travel agent and tour operators to confirm travel services and accommodation bookings
• New Caledonian Department of Emergency Management (Sécurité Civile – DSCGR) Earthquake information  (in French)
• New Caledonian IRD (French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development) seismological network  (in English)
• New Caledonian Department of Emergency Management (Sécurité Civile – DSCGR) Tsunami information  (in French)

New Caledonia can experience  bushfires .

Bushfires usually occur from September to February. They can occur in other months.

To protect yourself from bushfires:

• look and listen out for bushfire warnings
• New Caledonian Department of Emergency Management (Sécurité Civile - DSCGR) Bushfire information  (in French)

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory for entry to New Caledonia and must cover all medical and hospitalisation expenses and repatriation costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

You may need to present your travel insurance certificate when departing for and arriving in New Caledonia.

Medical costs are high. For example:

• an intensive care bed could cost more than $A5,500 per day
• ambulance transfers can cost over $A1,250
• a helicopter evacuation within New Caledonia costs over $A6,500

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  tailored to your mode of transport (e.g. cruise ship) and region of travel before you leave. Ensure your travel or medical insurance covers you for existing conditions and medical evacuation.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care and more for your return to Australia with medical assistance.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Cruise ship evacuations

Australians have been evacuated from cruise ships in New Caledonia (Noumea, Loyalty Islands or Isle of Pines) to Noumea by air ambulance and then taken by road ambulance to Gaston Bourret public hospital in Dumbea or to Kuindo-Magnin private clinic in Noumea. Some insurance claims have been refused, often due to pre-existing conditions. Many international  cruises  stopover in New Caledonia. To reduce your risks if you plan to travel on a cruise ship:

• check the onboard medical facilities are suitable
• understand the costs of onboard medical treatment
• buy travel insurance that covers your circumstances
• French High Commission in New Caledonia  (in French)
• New Caledonia Tourism , including  visas and entry requirements  (in English) 

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest  Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check with relevant authorities if it's legal in New Caledonia. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• Your required dosage
• that it's for personal use
• Consulate-General of France in Sydney  including information on customs and  medicine for personal use
• French Customs Directorate in New Caledonia  with  information for travellers , including  authorised goods  and customs regulations applicable to  private yachts  (all in French)

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Insect-borne diseases such as  Dengue ,  Chikungunya  and  Zika  are a risk in New Caledonia, especially in the warmer and wetter months.

If you're pregnant, the Australian Department of Health and Aged Care recommends you:

• discuss travel plans with your doctor
• consider deferring non-essential travel to Zika-affected areas

To protect yourself from disease:​ ​

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, a rash, diarrhoea or a severe headache.

• Health Department of New Caledonia (Direction des Affaires Sanitaires et Sociales - DASSNC)  (in French)
• DASSNC disease-specific information and reporting procedures , including  DASSNC Health Diseases  (in French)
• Infectious diseases

Leptospirosis

Small outbreaks of  leptospirosis  are common. More serious outbreaks can happen after heavy rainfall.

To protect yourself against leptospirosis:

• wear closed-in shoes
• avoid swimming in rivers or muddy water
• store food in enclosed containers
• don't drink straight from cans — use a straw
• remove rubbish from around your home

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur. These include: 

• conjunctivitis
• COVID-19  (Australian Department of Health and Aged Care)
• Actualité COVID-19 | Gouvernement de la Nouvelle-Calédonie  (in French)

It's generally safe to drink tap water in towns.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids in rural areas
• attend to symptoms, such as itchiness and skin wounds
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• Health Department of New Caledonia (Direction des Affaires Sanitaires et Sociales – DASSNC)  (in French)
• Infectious diseases  

Medical care

Medical facilities.

The standard of medical facilities in New Caledonia is generally high. However, search and rescue facilities are limited. The difficult terrain limits quick access.

During a crisis, some medical facilities may be closed. Access may also be difficult or restricted, including opening hours of emergency wards. Check the websites and Facebook pages of these facilities for the most up-to-date information. If you require urgent medical care, call 15. Duty doctors will assess whether they will send a doctor or ambulance or advise alternative medical care for you. You may be taken to the hospital or advised how to make your way to the nearest medical centre or hospital.

Mobile pho ne coverage may be limited in some parts of the main island. Mobile network coverage is available on the  New Caledonian Postal and Telecommunications Directorate  (OPTNC).

In the Southern Province:

• Centre Hospitalier Territorial (CHT) Gaston Bourret  (in French) is the main public facility at the Koutio Medipole in Dumbea, and their emergency ward is open 24/7.
• Clinique Kuindo-Magnin  (in French) is the main private facility in the suburb of Nouville in Noumea, and their emergency ward is open daily from 7am to 11pm.

In the Northern Province, the main public hospitals are:

• Koumac (Hôpital Paula-Thavoavianon)  – has emergency, general medical and mid-wife services.
• Poindimié (Hôpital Raymond Doui-Nebayes)  – has general, physical and rehabilitation, continuing care services.
• Koné (Pôle Sanitaire du Nord)  – has emergency, general medical, surgery, anaesthesia, maternity, operations, day-care and continuing care services.

The only decompression chamber is in Noumea ( SCADEM - Travaux sous-marin Nouvelle-Calédonie  (in French)).

Many popular dive sites are on other islands. If there's an accident, it may take several hours to reach medical facilities.

Medical costs are high. Make sure your insurance covers medical evacuation and your planned activities.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

New Caledonia is an overseas territory of France. A mix of French and local laws apply.

• Travel advice for France

Penalties for drug offences, even small amounts, include fines and imprisonment. 

• Carrying or using drugs

Proof of identity

You must always carry ID.

LGBTQIA+ information

Under French law, same-sex marriage is legal in New Caledonia.

However, outside Noumea, you may encounter more conservative attitudes.

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

France recognises dual citizenship.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Outside of tourist areas, dress and behaviour standards are conservative. Take care not to offend.

Visits to certain areas, including popular fishing and maritime areas, may require prior authorisation from the relevant customary authorities.  This is carried out through engaging in a 'coutume' (customary acknowledgement gesture). 

• North Province Tourism Group, Custom  (in French)
• New Caledonia Tourism – Traditions, Customs and Etiquette  (in English)

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You likely won't need a visa for a tourist visit of up to 3 months. However, the total length of your stay must not exceed a total of 90 days over a period of 180 days (6 months). 

You may need to show proof of:

• sufficient money for your stay
• return or onward travel ticket
• adequate travel or health insurance covering medical and hospitalisation expenses as well as any repatriation costs, including medical evacuation
• the purpose of your visit

In other situations, you'll need a visa issued by the  French representations in your country of residence  and, subject to your circumstances, a work permit issued by the Government of New Caledonia. Further information is also available (in French) on the French High Commission in New Caledonia website.

New Caledonia is an overseas territory of France.

Contact the Consulate-General of France in Sydney or the Embassy of France in Canberra  for up-to-date information on visa requirements. 

Border measures

Check with your airline or travel provider on minors' travel regulations, including those travelling unaccompanied.

Entry protocols apply to private sailboats and cruise ships visiting New Caledonia. All immigration procedures must be completed in Noumea, with some approvals required before arrival. During a crisis, arrivals by sea may be prohibited or restricted by local authorities. Private sailboats must contact the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) for clearance to come to New Caledonia, with Noumea being the mandatory port of entry.  Contact your airline, cruise line, local port agent, tour operator or local employer, for the latest updates. 

• French High Commission in New Caledonia  with entry conditions to New Caledonia by foreign nationals (in French).
• Rescue and Surveillance Operational Center of New Caledonia (COSSNC) with up-to-date information (in English) for private sailboats .

Other formalities

Some goods aren't allowed in New Caledonia.  Other goods require specific approvals or other formalities.

• New Caledonian Department for Animal, Food and Rural Affairs  (Direction des Affaires Vétérinaires, Alimentaires et Rurales – DAVAR) including  Information for travellers  (both in French) and a  list of products not requiring import permit or biosecurity-sanitary certificates  (in English).
• Customs Directorate in New Caledonia , including information for travellers  arriving by air  or on  private yacht  (all in French)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules.   Check your passport's expiry date before you travel with the  French authorities in Australia . If you're not sure it'll be valid for the required period, consider getting  a new passport . 

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible.

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency is the Pacific Franc (XPF).

Declare all amounts over 10,000 euros (or equivalent) on arrival and departure. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

Australian dollars are accepted by some businesses.

Change Australian dollars for XPF at banks and authorised exchange bureaus.

There are ATMs and credit card facilities in Noumea and other major centres.

Take enough cash if you're travelling to remote areas.

• New Caledonia Currency | New Caledonia Tourism & Travel  (in English)

Local travel

New Caledonia Tourism  provides information on getting around New Caledonia by road, air and sea.

Travel disruptions

Industrial and political disputes, as well as strikes, can cause disruptions to essential services, including transport links. Monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities (see  Safety ).

Road travel

You can drive in New Caledonia on a valid Australian driver's licence for up to one year after arrival.

To find out about driver's licences and driving regulations:

• Visit the  New Caledonian Department of Infrastructure and Land Transport , including information on  foreign licences  (in French)
• Visit the  New Caledonian Public Service  website, which includes information on alcohol limits.

On the road:

• drivers may be unlicensed or drunk
• vehicles may be poorly maintained
• vehicles may be uninsured

You could encounter:

• carjackings

These incidents are uncommon but dangerous (see  Safety ).

Leave the area quickly and safely if stones are thrown at your car.

If you plan to drive:

• check your travel insurance covers it
• learn local traffic laws and practices
• keep your car windows up and doors locked
• don't drink and drive
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Make sure your travel insurance covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Hire a taxi from a taxi rank or make a phone booking. Book your taxi in advance. Long delays are common. Some taxis may decline going to certain geographic areas.

In Noumea, taxi rank locations and tariffs are available on the website of the  Southern Province Tourism Office  (in French). The Noumea Central Taxi number +687 28 35 12 is available for bookings 24/7.

You can only hail a taxi from the street in Noumea if it's located more than 100 metres from a taxi rank.

Some taxis only accept cash. Others may accept payment by credit card.

Other municipalities in New Caledonia have taxi services. Check the website of the  relevant city hall (municipality) from the New Caledonian Government website  for further information.

Public transport

New Caledonia Tourism provides information on  all transport services  available (in English), 

Buses operate throughout Grande Terre (the main island). Check the Taneo bus services' website  and Facebook  page (in French) for the most up-to-date information as services are currently suspended until further notice. Maritime shuttles may be put in place during a crisis, monitor the Taneo website and Facebook page for further information.

On other islands,  public transport  is limited.

Passenger ferries run from Noumea to:

• Île des Pins
• Maré, Lifou and Ouvéa in the Loyalty Islands

Many international  cruises  stopover in New Caledonia. See  Health

• Travelling by boat

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  New Caledonia's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

For information on domestic flights, check the Air Caledonie Facebook  and website .

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, you should contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 15 - duty doctors will assess whether they will send a doctor or ambulance or advise alternative medical care for you. You may be taken to the hospital or advised how to make your way to the nearest medical centre or hospital.

Call 17 or 1022 or contact the nearest police station or gendarmerie.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular assistance in New Caledonia, contact the Australian Consulate-General in Noumea.

Australian Consulate-General, Noumea

Norwich Building Level 2 11 rue Georges Baudoux Artillerie, Noumea, New Caledonia Phone: (+687) 27 24 14 Consular assistance email:  [email protected] Website:  noumea.consulate.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in New Caledonia and Wallis and Futuna Twitter:  @AusCGNoumea

The public telephone line (+687 27 24 14) and consular assistance mailbox of the Australian Consulate-General in Noumea ( [email protected] ) are monitored regularly during business hours (Monday to Friday, 9am to 4pm, except public holidays).

Outside of office hours, if you require urgent consular assistance, please follow the prompts (details below) to be connected to the 24/7 Consular Emergency Centre in Canberra.

Check the Consulate-General website for details about opening hours, any temporary closures and other information useful to your circumstances.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact the Consulate-General, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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New Caledonia

New Caledonia's dazzling lagoon surrounds it with every hue of blue, green and turquoise. The light and the space simply delight your senses. By becoming a World Heritage site, the lagoon has helped bring the people together to celebrate and protect it, from village level through to government.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Place des Cocotiers

This is the heart of the city. The square slopes gently from east to west and at the top is a band rotunda, a famous landmark dating back to the late…

Pont de Mouli

Loyalty Islands

It may seem unusual to recommend a road bridge as a top sightseeing spot, but at Pont de Mouli, Ouvéa’s tip, Mouli island, is cut off by a wide channel…

Orientated east–west, this popular beach is a hotspot for visitors to Noumea, with hotels, restaurants, shopping and other attractions. Only 10 minutes…

Baie des Citrons

Orientated north–south and less than 10 minutes from the city centre, trendy Baie des Citrons attracts locals and visitors alike. The beach is great for…

Aquarium des Lagons

This aquarium is stunning. Species found in New Caledonian waters – including nautilus, sea snakes, stone fish, turtles, sharks and stingrays – have…

Le Saut du Guerrier

Seven kilometres east of La Roche by sealed road is this gap in the cliffs, 5m wide and 30m above the pounding surf. Legend tells of a warrior who escaped…

Statue of St Maurice

Île des Pins

At Baie de St Maurice, this statue commemorates the arrival of the first missionaries on the island and is also a war memorial. There's a solemn line of…

Ouvéa Memorial

The large memorial in Wadrilla is a tribute to 19 Kanaks who died in 1988, when French military personnel stormed a cave to free French gendarmes being…

Latest stories from New Caledonia

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Dec 23, 2015 • 5 min read

Looking for a relaxing family travel experience with more than 'just' beaches and sunshine? New Caledonia offers travellers a taste of the tropics but…

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New caledonia and beyond.

Every weekend is an adventure

Things to do in new caledonia and resources to plan the perfect trip.

• Post published: 12 January 2016
• Post category: New Caledonia / Oceania/South Pacific

Have you ever realised New Caledonia is Australia’s closest neighbour on the East Coast? After a two-hour flight from Brisbane , you can land close to Paradise in Noumea, the capital of the World’s largest lagoon . But don’t stop there. New Caledonia has more to offer than Noumea. I’ve travelled a few times to this jewel and put together this resource to help you plan your trip to New Caledonia: things to do, tips and itinerary ideas.

Each time we travel to New Caledonia, we are blown away by the beauty of the landscape. We are also touched by great human encounters and the kindness of the local people we meet. But it’s never an easy trip: there are many things to do in New Caledonia, and travel planning is often challenging.

Planning a trip to New Caledonia? Read these travel tips that will make your holidays easier (and cheaper)  and make sure you pack all the essential items by checking this packing list for New Caledonia .

New Caledonia #1 thing to do: choose which island(s) to visit

The first step to finding things to do in new caledonia is to answer this question: how many islands do you plan to visit.

New Caledonia is an archipelago made of five main islands (and many other tiny small ones). They all provide a different experience and deciding which one you’ll visit will totally shape your itinerary in New Caledonia.

I’m sure you’ll want to see them all, but you probably won’t have time for that. Life in New Caledonia goes slowly, and I highly recommend travelling this way. Things can be really stressful if you’re on a tight schedule in New Caledonia. Take your time to visit the islands and absorb the relaxed atmosphere. It’s a waste to rush your visit.

Island hopping in New Caledonia is made easy with excellent internal connections by plane several times a day that will also offer some of the most scenic flights you’ll ever get. Although New Caledonians are getting better at organisation every time we visit, you still need to allow time to travel between the islands in case something goes wrong.

Here’s a list of New Caledonia islands with a brief description of how I see them from a traveller’s point of view and the time I recommend spending there.

Warning! My suggestions of things to do in New Caledonia include a few adventurous activities. Double-check that they are covered by your travel insurance to avoid bad surprises if an incident happens. If you don’t have travel insurance yet, read this!

Grande Terre, the biggest island in New Caledonia

If you fly to New Caledonia, that’s where you’ll land. The capital of New Caledonia, Noumea, is located southwest of the Grande Terre.

Grande Terre means “Large Land” in French, and it’s a fitting description for New Caledonia’s main island as it represents 88% of the total size of New Caledonia. It’s 400 kilometers long and only a maximum of 64 km wide. Don’t expect to get around it quickly: it’s divided by mountains from north to south. These mountains aren’t only scenic; they also create a different climate: the west coast is more protected from the wind and drier than the east coast.

Although I don’t recommend spending a lot of time in Noumea , the rest of the Grande Terre is interesting to explore. I found it very different from the other islands in New Caledonia, both in terms of landscapes and culture. The more north and east you go, the more natural and tribal it gets. We travelled twice up to the Ouaieme River just after Hienghene .

If you want to explore the Grande Terre, I recommend staying at least six days . And you will only have a peek at what the Grande Terre can offer. On our third trip to New Caledonia, we only stayed on the Grande Terre for a week and still wished we had more time.

Driving in New Caledonia is very scenic. However, the roads are winding on the main island and driving times are usually longer than you expect. Here’s an overview of the different places we visited on the Grande Terre:

• Bourail (north of Noumea, on the west coast): we stopped at the Roche Percee beach (meaning pierced rock) to admire Le Bonhomme , a rock with the shape of a man at the end of the beach. We stayed at Le Betikure Park Lodge *, a small resort surrounded by nature with very comfortable rooms perfect for relaxing ( read my review here ).
• Hienghene (northeast of the Grande Terre): we only spent one night there on our first trip and went back for longer because there are a lot of things to do in Hienghene , including scuba diving some reputed sites . We stayed in a room with sea views at the Hotel Koulnoue Village *.
• Poindimie (south of Hienghene): we mainly went there for scuba diving . We stayed at the beautiful Hotel Tieti * in a stunning bungalow on the beach ( read my review here ). During our first visit in 2016, we also spent a night at a small lodge Les ignames de Nevaho (meanings yams of Nevaho) to see a different facet of the east coast.
• Parc des Grandes Fougeres – meaning The Tall Fern Park (in the middle of the Grande Terre): we stopped for a walk in this beautiful forest in the heart of the island and were lucky to see a few cagous , a bird species that is unfortunately endangered and rare. We slept at a small farm and it was interesting to learn about a different lifestyle in New Caledonia that’s not linked to the beach.
• Yate and Riviere Bleue – meaning Blue River (south of Noumea): we visited the most southern part of the Grande Terre as a day trip from Noumea. It’s shaped by the mines and the red ground and the dam looked very different from the other places we visited in the archipelago.

Lifou, the biggest of the Loyalty Islands

Lifou (called Drehu in the local language) is the second biggest island in New Caledonia… but it’s 14 times smaller than the Grande Terre.

However, it’s the biggest island of the Loyalty Islands, a group of three islands located in the east of the New Caledonia archipelago. There are many things to do in Lifou . We stayed for three days on Lifou, and it was just enough to experience the beauty of the north of the island.

I particularly loved having the opportunity to share quality time for two days with a tribe in a very remote and natural place. It’s also where I found the best snorkelling spot ever on a coral reef (Jinek). Click here to learn more about Lifou  

Mare, the wild and authentic island

Mare (Nengone in the local language) is another of the Loyalty Island. It’s nearly half the size of Lifou. It’s very easy to get around and three full days should be enough to visit most of the island.

When there is no cruise boat, there aren’t many tourists around Mare. The coast is splendid, and I appreciated the authenticity of the places we visited. The locals were super welcoming, and the island still looks pristine. It’s a perk, but some activities (especially hiking) can be a bit rough for those who aren’t adventurers.

We found there the most beautiful accommodation in New Caledonia .  

Ouvea, the Paradise

Ouvea (Iaal or Uvea in local languages) is the smallest main island of New Caledonia. It’s only 122-kilometre square metres. But it’s very long, so it actually takes a bit of time to explore.

It’s known to be one of the most beautiful atolls in the Pacific. It truly is an exceptional place where I recommend staying for at least three days .

The north of Ouvea is more authentic than the south of the island, where you’ll see more tourist accommodations than villages. Both are worth exploring. The northeast tip is totally different from the long and never-ending beach on the west. There are boats to take you to the smaller islands on both tips, and many amazing places all around the island. Click here to learn more about Ouvea  

The Isle of Pines, the most touristy island

The Isle of Pines is almost as small as Ouvea. It’s not part of the Loyalty Islands: it is located in the south of the Grande Terre.

It’s the most touristy island in New Caledonia. But don’t judge it too quickly based on this. They have managed to keep the tourist development rather small. When there is no cruise boat around, it’s a fantastic place to visit and there are sites like Upi Bay that you really don’t want to miss.

I recommend staying on the Isle of Pines for about  three days unless you are a scuba diver, which would double the area you can explore there! Click here to read more about the Isle of Pines  

The best activities in New Caledonia

New Caledonia is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities or simply relax on the beach. We always prefer active holidays and welcome the opportunity to learn more about the local culture. Our favourite things to do in New Caledonia include:

• Cruising to small islets,
• Snorkelling,
• Scuba diving ,
• Visiting local tribes,
• Visiting cultural centres,
• Tasting local food.

New Caledonia itinerary suggestions

Things to do in new caledonia in two weeks.

• 2 days in Noumea  (arrival and departure!)
• 3 days on Lifou  or Mare
• 3 days on Ouvea
• 3-day road trip to the North of the South Province (Bourail, Parc des Grandes Fougeres, La Foa) + a detour to the North Province ( Hienghene , Poindimie)
• 3 days on the Isle of Pines

Things to do in New Caledonia in one week

• 3 days on one of the Loyalty Islands ( Lifou or Ouvea or Mare)

Things to do in New Caledonia in one week (Saturday to Sunday) – Grande Terre only

• 2 days in Noumea (arrival, departure and Amedee Island)
• 1 night in Bourail
• 3 nights in Hienghene
• 1 night in the centre (near Parc des Grandes Fougeres)

Important things to know before travelling to New Caledonia

You’ll find many tips in this article to help you plan your trip.

People in new caledonia speak french (and their own local language )..

They actually have 28 local languages in the archipelago. Those working in the tourism industry may speak English, but it’s still rare especially when you go to the Loyalty Islands or out of Noumea on the Grande Terre. The Isle of Pines is more touristy, so you’ll find more people who can speak English. If you can learn a bit of French before going so you can interact with the locals, you’ll have a better trip!

New Caledonia is part of France .

This means you’ll have excellent facilities, especially on the Grande Terre. It can be reassuring when you’re on an adventure in South Pacific Islands. You may also appreciate the French touch at some of the restaurants or in the products available at the supermarket (and at the bottle shop).

But you’ll also find a very different culture with the Kanaks tribes, which you can particularly experience on the Loyalty Islands and in the North Province. It’s a fantastic destination to travel to, as it gives you the comfort of modern infrastructures with the exotism of the Pacific culture.

Cruise to New Caledonia

Many people travel to New Caledonia from Australia as part of a cruise around the Pacific Islands . I know it’s a cheap way of travelling, but it will not give you the best experience of New Caledonia at all. I highly recommend spending more time than just one day on each island and avoiding being there with hundreds of people.

Level of service in New Caledonia

If you want to enjoy your trip fully, try to stay flexible and lower your expectations in terms of hospitality service . I met many people who complained about restaurants and accommodations in New Caledonia . It’s true that hotels, restaurants and tours do not always provide the level of service you can expect for the price you pay. If you want the basic services you get at resorts in other tourist destinations, you’ll have to book the most expensive places in New Caledonia. And even expensive places – especially in Noumea – sometimes need some renovation work!

Now, you know. Don’t let this impact your holidays in this wonderful place (and read these tips before booking your accommodations in New Caledonia).

You’ll need a local guide to take you to many of the best natural places .

Sometimes, the guide is just someone shy who will show you the way (especially if you don’t speak French), and some other times you’ll have someone willing to share all his knowledge about his land. It can feel expensive to always have to pay to access natural places and I’ve met people who found that frustrating. I personally think it’s a good way to manage these natural places. Keep in mind that you’re on land owned by the tribe and that’s how they make money rather than allowing the development of constructions that would change the pristine landscape you’re visiting. It’s also a way to control the number of visitors and limit them to specific times.

Some natural places are “taboo”, which means you are not allowed to go there .

Or sometimes you can go there, but you’re not allowed to swim. Most of the time, I found that it’s to protect a fragile area or an area with high cultural meanings for the Kanaks. Taboo places aren’t often indicated so try to research a place before your visit. Guidebooks mention taboo places, for example.

Map of the islands of New Caledonia

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Ultimate New Caledonia Travel Guide: All You Need to Know

What comes to your mind when you think of New Caledonia? A French-speaking island in the Pacific?

Before I boarded the plane from Brisbane to fly with the national airline  Aircalin just under 2 hours east to this French island territory, I didn't know much at all.

Enter palm-lined beaches, the world's largest lagoon paired with the second largest barrier reef, some of the most delicious seafood and fresh warm croissants like you'd find them in the streets of cities in France.

Useful New Caledonia Travel Tips

There are some things you should know before heading to New Caledonia.

Being part of France, the national language is French as well as their own local languages spoken by the native Kanak tribes. English is used widely in tourism, but I have found that New Caledonians really appreciate it when you try some words or sentences in French, so it doesn't hurt to learn.

New Caledonia uses Pacific Franc or CFP (Comptoirs Français du Pacifique). Euro is not used here.

The climate is very much like in Brisbane, Australia. It's pleasant around the year with winter highs in the 20s and summer highs going over 30 degrees. So when is the best time to visit New Caledonia? Mid-December to late January as well as July and August are peak months for visitors, if you want to find affordable accommodation and less crowds, go in May-June and September-October. They are ideal months to miss the height of the wet season and possible cyclones too.

New Caledonia doesn't require any visas for short stays of less than 3 months for most nations . Just make sure your passport is valid for at least 3 months after your return date.

Leaving a tip is unnecessary in New Caledonia as most prices are shown as full and inclusive of any tax.

Getting To And Around New Caledonia

While many visitors come to New Caledonia by cruise ship, I highly recommend you consider flying into Noumea directly.

Coming by cruise, you will not be able to appreciate the diverse landscape, the hospitality of the local people and beautiful underwater marine life – and you surely won't get to see the lagoon with its reef and many little islands from the air.

Flying With Aircalin To New Caledonia

With Aircalin you can easily fly into New Caledonia from some of Australia's major cities, including Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

I also learned that you can fly from Noumea with Aircalin all the way to France as well as Tokyo , Osaka, Los Angeles, Fiji , Vanuatu and Auckland . You can actually reach over 110 destinations from Noumea thanks to the extensive network of partner airlines.

I had the pleasure of flying Business Class from Brisbane to Noumea which was great from the lounge visit ahead of the flight to the beautiful food and incredibly attentive service during the flight and landing at La Tontouta International Airport after a very short two-hour flight.

Noumea's airport La Tontouta is roughly 50 km from the city and takes 30-40 minutes in an airport shuttle. Note that Noumea also has another airport called Magenta Airport, which is about 38 km from the city of Noumea and serves domestic flights only.

Hiring A Car To Get Around

The best way to get around New Caledonia is by hiring a car. It definitely makes sense if you want to explore the main island of New Caledonia, Grande Terre.

If you didn't know it yet, but New Caledonia actually has five main islands: Ouvea, Lifou, Mare, Isle of Pines and Grande Terre, the biggest island where the capital Noumea is located as well as many of New Caledonia's activities and things to see.

It's easy to hire a car right in Noumea or at the airport, a 2WD might be sufficient but if you head into the southern parts, many roads are narrow and winding, some are dirt roads and I think a 4WD would be a smart choice. Also, know that it is a right-hand drive over here. It's recommended to book ahead of time rather than on the ground as vehicles are often booked out fast, especially during peak periods.

Best Things To Do In Noumea

The capital of New Caledonia, Noumea is the largest city in the country boasting beautiful picturesque bays framed by sandy beaches, French restaurants and world-class snorkelling in a living aquarium right at its shores.

It's classy, it's casual, its facades look a bit grungy. The city comes to life through its contrasts and is worth exploring for a whole day.

• Port Moselle Market Noumea's biggest market is open Tuesday to Sunday from 5 am to 11.30 am and has been selling fresh produce to the population since 1991 under five odd-looking hexagonal pavilions. It today is a main tourist attraction and great to browse around for some souvenirs and stock up on fresh fruit.
• Coconut Tree Square The square can be found in the heart of the city and is a green oasis and a meeting place for locals. During the year, you can find small markets, concerts and other events on the square. Since I visited so close to Christmas, I also got to see the massive Christmas tree that is put up on the tree annually.
• Morand Chocolate Factory You are definitely spoilt for choice when visiting this shop. Chocolat Morand is an institution in Noumea and has been making chocolate and fine pastries since 2000. I had the privilege of meeting the husband and wife team for a tasting of their unique creations. The best spot to visit in Noumea for chocolate lovers!
• Anse Vata Beach & Lemon Bay Anse Vata is the city's largest beach and is great for relaxing, having a picnic or strolling along the promenade which houses many bars, restaurants and shops. Lemon Bay, called Baie des Citrons in French, is the smaller sister to Anse Vata and is typically a bit more sheltered from the wind.
• Tijbaou Cultural Center The structure of Tijbaou Cultural Center left me in awe. The eye-catching structures designed by world-renowned Italian architect Renzo Piano, who also designed the Centre Pompidou in Paris, the cultural center is a great introduction to the local Kanak culture. It features an art centre, museum, performance center, library and a beautifully landscaped park.
• Ouen Toro Hill One of my favourite spots in Noumea was Ouen Toro, the hill towering over Noumea's southern end. You can walk or drive up and then enjoy the 360 views across the city and surrounding ocean. Plan your visit around the cruise ships coming in as many groups get wheeled up there in mini buses which makes the spot busy and less tranquil than it truly is.

• Le Meridien Noumea Resort & Spa I loved my stay at the Le Meridien right on the shores of Anse Vata Bay. The air-conditioned room was big and had a great little balcony with ocean views, a bathtub and free Wi-Fi. There is also a big outdoor pool with plenty of sun chairs, a bar serving drinks and snacks right at what feels like a private beach. The breakfast buffet is a huge plus as it has something for everyone, including all the delicious French pastries, baguette and a station for freshly cooked eggs.
• For other hotel recommendations around Noumea, check out my f ull accommodation guide here.

Eat & Drink

• Néa Bowls If you're on the hunt for healthy and fresh meals in downtown Noumea (next to Coconut Square), Néa Bowls is your pick! This little cafe has delightful decor and serves up some of the best vegetarian dishes in town. Also vegan-friendly! Green detox juice, tasty carrot cake and delicious Buddha bowls are perfect for lunch.
• MV Lounge A fabulous spot for a drink as the bar sits right on the beach at the far end of Lemon Bay. Opt for the deck or get a spot right on the beach and drink your cocktail with your feet in the sand. Beautiful ambiance with music and little lantern lights, loved it!
• Au Ptit Café This open cafe/restaurant set under large trees on a rather busy street is often hard to get a reservation at. Rightly so, as the food is frequently changing according to the seasonal ingredients available at the local market combined with French flavours. I came here for dinner as it was recommended by locals and definitely wasn't disappointed. Make sure to try the cheesecake, if you can still fit that in after your meal.
• Le Roof Set along the promenade of Anse Vata Bay, Le Roof is hard to miss as it sits on stilts out at the end of a pier and offers fine dining along with amazing sunsets. Come here for seafood and be prepared to pay for the price and atmosphere. In the middle of the restaurant there is a spot where you can watch sealife. It's said that a local dolphin often comes for a visit at sunset, but I spotted a small reef shark, pretty cool.
• Marmite et Tire Bouchon My favourite in all of Noumea. The extensive wine list (visible in the adjacent wine cellar!) compliments the innovative meals on the French-inspired menu. The food is very tasty and great value. Beautiful desserts too!

Best Things To Do In New Caledonia

Island hopping.

Of course, I didn't come to New Caledonia to just explore Noumea, there is actually so much more to this country than I ever thought.

You definitely have to take a few days to go island hopping. It's fairly easy to base yourself in Noumea and explore a new island every day. Here are some of the islands that are close by and can easily be visited in a day:

• Duck Island:  This island can easily be reached by taxi boat as it actually sits in Anse Vata Bay and offers incredible marine life. Duck Island (Ile aux Canards) is perfect for snorkelling and relaxing and sunbathing.
• Amedee Island: Another great day trip a little further out in the bay lies Amedee Island (roughly 40 minutes by boat), where you find white powder sand against the turquoise ocean and the famous Amedee lighthouse, one of the tallest lighthouses in the world, overlooking it all. It's frequented by glass-bottom boat tour companies and great for underwater experiences like snorkelling and diving and it's not uncommon to find yourself swimming next to turtles.
• Maitre Island: Said to be the closest overwater bungalows to Australia, L’Escapade Island Resort on Ilot Maître is easily reached in 20 minutes by boat from Noumea and offers an amazingly private place to stay, one of the best places to stay for couples in New Caledonia. You can also come here on a day trip to swim alongside the abundance of marine animals.
• Other islands worth visiting close to Noumea include: Sainte-Marie Island, Signal Island, Laregnere Island, Goeland Island.

There are plenty of stunning islands all around New Caledonia, many of them uninhabited and boasting paradise beaches with picturesque scenery.

On my last day in New Caledonia I had the chance to go on a catamaran to visit a very special island called Ilot M'Bo which I have found no information about online but only seen with my own eyes. When we arrived, we had the island all to ourselves, no boats around but crystal clear water against snow-white sand. Walking around the island only took 10 minutes before we threw ourselves into the turquoise ocean. Paradise on earth.

Isle Of Pines

Unfortunately, I didn't have time to visit the Isle of Pines but I know I will have to when I return to New Caledonia. Known as ‘the jewel of the Pacific' the island is best known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise lagoons and soaring pine trees.

To get to the Isle of Pines, you will either have to take a 2.5-hour ferry ride from Noumea or you can also fly in 20 minutes to the island. I heard that this place is so beautiful, it's out of this world. And when you're sick of bathing in the natural pools (how could you ever get sick of that!), you can explore caves or hike to the island peak.

I already moved a stay at the Le Méridien Ile des Pins on the shores of Oro Bay towards the top of my bucket list!

The Great South

Did you know New Caledonia also has a wild side? Yes, it does. Drive a few hours south from Noumea and you will suddenly hit deep red sand, a rugged landscape and historic sites like Prony village. This deserted village used to serve as a penal colony in its early days and later became home to families of miners but was left abandoned in the late 1960s and is today only visited by tourists.

The south of New Caledonia also houses many waterfalls such as the La Madeleine and Goro Falls. I didn't get to visit Yate Dam but it sounds like another impressive experience.

My highlight of visiting the Great South of New Caledonia was definitely Cap N'Dua Lighthouse at the southern tip of New Caledonia's main island. From the car park, it's an easy 10-minute hike up to get to the lonely lighthouse with the most stunning views over the natural reserve, the open ocean and nearby islands.

That night, we stayed in a remotely beautiful place at the Kanua Tera Ecolodge. The cute and rustic bungalows are set right at the shores of Port Boise Bay, perfect for snorkelling, swimming and jumping off the on-site floating jetty. It's quite a journey from Noumea to get here, but for true tranquility and seclusion, this is your spot! Surrounded by tropical forest, there is also a restaurant and bar and surely, you'll have the beach almost for yourself as there are only 18 huts.

New Caledonia has taken my heart by storm and I cannot wait to go back to explore more of the other islands. With only two hours flight time from Brisbane, it almost seems ridiculous that I haven't thought about visiting earlier!

To me, this country has a lot to offer, especially for ocean and nature enthusiasts but also gets to satisfy foodies and culture geeks.

Book Your Trip To New Caledonia

Book Your Flight I recommend using Skyscanner as the easiest way to find and compare the best airfares to New Caledonia. Book Your Hotel My top pick for finding the perfect New Caledonia accommodation is Booking.com , as they guarantee the best room rate available, plus you get free cancellation on most bookings. Book Your Tours & Activities  I like finding and pre-booking tours with  Get Your Guide and Viator . You will book with instant confirmation, great customer support, and free cancellation for many activities. Access Money Overseas Without Hidden Fees  I highly recommend  getting a Wise account  to withdraw money in New Caledonia, pay for meals on the Visa card, or shop in Pacific Franc. With Wise, you always pay the real exchange, so you never pay more! Get the Best eSIM Getting an eSIM card eliminates the need for physical SIM cards, so you can easily switch between mobile networks in over 190 countries worldwide without expensive roaming fees. Don't Go Without Travel Insurance Travel with confidence, knowing that Hey Mondo , my preferred travel insurance provider, has your back. Don't let illness, accidents, theft, or cancellations ruin your trip. As a reader, you also get 5% off any policy purchased !

This post is brought to you in collaboration with Aircalin, the international airline of New Caledonia.

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links, which means that – at absolutely no cost to you – we earn a small commission on sales generated through this website. We only recommend sites we actually use and thank you for your support!

Carolin is a travel expert born in Germany. She has been travelling around the world since 2014 and now lives in her adopted soul home Australia. Her travel advice has been featured on Forbes, Daily Mail, Yahoo!, News.com.au, Tour Radar, Expedia and she's also been named one of the top travel bloggers you need to follow by Tourism Queensland.

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Travel To New Caledonia: Your 5-Day Itinerary of Nature, Culture, And Adventures

PUBLISHED July 28th, 2023 06:00 am | UPDATED August 21st, 2023 02:26 pm

Pack your bags and hop onto Aircalin for direct passage to the hidden island paradise – New Caledonia ! The stunning French archipelago in the heart of the South Pacific boasts lush nature reserves, vibrant festivals , and a rich cultural heritage. If nature, culture and adventure are calling out for your next vacation, follow our five-day itinerary to immerse yourself in all the wonders this tropical gem has to offer. 

Getting To and Around New Caledonia

Your tropical escapade is less than nine hours away from Singapore via New Caledonia’s flag carrier Aircalin. Flying five times a week directly to the La Tontouta International Airport, enjoy the warm hospitality of the Pacific the moment you step on board. Plan your trip with our itinerary and book your flights here .

The best way to explore New Caledonia at your own pace is to rent a car. International car rental companies have offices at the airport, so book ahead and collect your car there or hire one on the spot. You might even decide to travel in style in cute Moke electric cars while enjoying the tropical breeze in your hair.

For getting around the islands, atolls and the world’s largest lagoon , water taxis are at your disposal. There are even glass- bottomed boats that bring you closer to the extraordinary marine life and boats that’ll take you out to witness the majestic humpback whales migrating to the warm waters of New Caledonia.

Day 1: Immerse in Local Culture

Start your French-flavoured culture adventure at New Caledonia’s largest market, Port Moselle Market , where locals go for fresh produce. Open Tuesdays to Sundays from 5am to 11.30am, browse tropical fruits and local seafood while hunting down artisanal crafts and souvenirs. Fuel up at any one of the cafes nearby before heading to Place des Cocotiers. Also known as Coconut Tree Square, this central garden is home to many festivals, events, and markets. Catch sight of the monumental Celestial Fountain, also the “zero” reference point from which road mileage was measured.  

In the afternoon, check out the architectural wonder that is Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Center , which spotlights indigenous Kanak culture through guided tours, exhibitions, and workshops. Marvel at the remarkable Cathedral of Saint Joseph , a historical monument built and designed by prisoners in 1887. Discover how France’s first metal lighthouse found its way to New Caledonia at Phare Amédée , before ending the day at the scenic Baie des Citrons , where you can kick back with dinner and drinks at the convivial bars and restaurants along the waterfront. 

Day 2: Hike The Great South Region

With New Caledonia’s rich biodiversity, take your time to explore the natural beauty of this French Archipelago. Travel south to Grand Terre and wander through Blue River Park , the largest rainforest on the island. The 9,000-ha protected park is home to endemic flora and fauna species such as the 1,000-year-old great Kaori tree and the flightless bird, Kagu. Then, visit the massive Yate Dam , which generates hydroelectricity that powers up to 30% of New Caledonia before taking your hike to Les Boucles de Netcha . With nine circuits of varying difficulties, challenge yourself with the black circuits or opt for the leisurely route with the green runs. Slow down in the second half of the day on the botanical path to the La Madeleine waterfalls .

Day 3: Escape to the Jewel of the Pacific 

Just 20 minutes away by plane from Nouméa (or two and a half hours by ferry) lies the dazzling “Jewel of the Pacific”. The Isle of Pines will take your breath away with its powdery ivory coast, turquoise lagoons, and towering Araucaria pine trees. Take a dip in the stunning Kanumera Bay or say hello to the colourful aquatic life in the natural aquarium at Oro Bay. 

Delve into the history of the Isle of Pines with a short stroll through the rainforest leading to Queen Hortense Cave . Legend has it that the regal lady sought refuge there during a tribal dispute in the mid 1850s. Connect with the friendly locals at the Village of Vao and learn more about the history of the jewel at the Mission Church and Statue de St Maurice. Round up the day by pampering yourself at the Oure Tera Beach Resort ; feast on local and Western cuisine against the scenic view of Kanuméra beach at sunset.

Day 4: Heart-Pumping Activities on the West Coast

Get your adrenaline pumping with the slew of exciting activities on the West Coast. Known for its strawberries and the traditional ox festival, Paita offers a unique way to experience the rainforest – by zipline. Zip through the canopy of Paita Forest and see lush greenery with a different perspective. 

For more thrills, leap off a plane and soar over the unspoiled landscape of Bourail, in the company of an experienced sky-diving instructor. Ease the excitement with a walk on the soft, white sands of Poé Beach , or take a dip in its sparkling, shallow waters. Tip your hat to the “gentleman” of the Bonhomme rock formation at Baie des Tortues (Turtle Bay) and you might even score a precious sighting of turtles nesting. If water sports are your thing, find them at La Roche Percée – its gentle waves are kind to new surfers. But don’t miss cultural treasures on land, such as the old military post office, and the Bourail Museum . 

Experienced surfers looking to ride the waves, the Pass of Dumbéa will be your dose of excitement. For a slower-paced activity, saddle up and explore Dumbéa on horseback. Journey into the forests, the highest point at Couvelée Valley, and along the Dumbéa River for breathtaking views of the upstream gorges. 

Day 5: Island Hop to the Loyalty Islands

Complete your New Caledonia adventure off the beaten track with a visit to Lifou , Maré and Ouvéa. Boasting unparalleled beauty and steeped in legends and traditions, the Loyalty Islands sit east of Grand Terre. Lifou, the largest island, is home to culinary gold – vanilla. Experience all things vanilla, from plantation visits and the “House of Vanilla” to an annual festival celebrating vanilla. Join a guided tour to meet locals, sample local food and discover what makes them remain on Lifou for generations. 

Head to the warm white sands of Luengoni Beach . The mysterious Luengoni Caves are natural caves hidden amongst lush vegetation, with fascinating turquoise to cobalt hues in its water. Catch a glimpse of the “jewels”, which are land sinkholes – you’ll need to jump two metres into total darkness under the guidance of an experienced guide. 

Top Image Lifou, New Caledonia

Andrina Loo

Andrina believes no meal is complete without dessert. She loves to explore new experiences and is always game for an adventure. In her free time, she learns to speak to her bunny though it doesn’t seem to be paying attention yet.

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Riot-stricken New Caledonia is empty of travellers. Businesses hope it can regain its place as a Pacific tourism jewel

Topic: Tourism and Leisure Industry

Nouméa's beaches are empty of tourists after riots broke out in New Caledonia last month over electoral reforms. ( ABC News: Nicolas Job )

Nestled between banana trees and palms on the outskirts of New Caledonia's capital, Anne Fonua's guesthouse and two tour buses sit empty.

Before civil unrest erupted in the French Pacific territory last month, her diary was filled with bookings from cruise ship passengers and other visitors arriving soon in Nouméa.

"Everything was cancelled," Ms Fonua said.

Anne Fonua's tour business in New Caledonia has been at a standstill since customers started cancelling bookings in May. ( Supplied: Anne Fonua )

Blessed with pristine beaches, lagoons and coral reefs, New Caledonia was a jewel in Pacific tourism hoping to grow its share of Australian tourists.

Travel to the archipelago came to a startling halt in May, when violent turmoil broke out over French plans to add thousands of voters who have been in the territory for 10 years to electoral rolls.

It's a reform many fear will dilute the Indigenous Kanak vote in future referendums on independence.

Tourism operators wait in limbo — and in hope of a peaceful solution.

"We need to stay positive," said Gateaway Shore Tours guide Alfred Nauka, whose weeks are usually filled showing Australians and other tourists around New Caledonia.

"However, being here and actually seeing and facing and living through all that's going on since May, definitely doesn't help me in keeping a positive mindset."

New Caledonia's capital Nouméa is usually popular with tourists from Australia, New Zealand and Europe. ( ABC News: Nicolas Job )

His business was recovering after COVID border closures, before the deadly unrest began on May 13.

"We have lost the totality of our income since then," Mr Nauka said.

Frederic Ballo of Nouméa Turtle Tour, usually busy with tourists, has seen none for about 50 days.

"We hope and we do everything we can to continue. We're adapting day-by-day," he said.

New Caledonia's business and tourism groups say 41,000 bookings have been cancelled, and the halt has cost several billion francs in turnover.

Pro-independence protesters continue to erect road blockades, and unrest last week spread beyond the capital.

"Obviously we can't transport our clients in such conditions," Mr Nauka said.

He believes it will take years to rebuild New Caledonia, once peace returns.

"I don't see how our business can survive this."

'We need peace'

Four decades of peace opened New Caledonia as a destination for Australians seeking a tropical getaway.

It had been on Andrea Bold's bucket list for 30 years when she booked a family holiday there.

She was planning visits to the Isle of Pines and Nouméa in June, before she saw the territory's civil disorder unfold in the news.

Nine people, including two police officers, were killed as violence erupted over France's attempt to push through the electoral reforms.

More than 3,000 international visitors stranded in the tumult , including Australians, were evacuated from New Caledonia.

"We watched it for about a week, and it was very clear that things weren't going to get better quickly, so we made the decision to cancel the trip," Ms Bold said.

Qantas gave her a credit for the family's cancelled flights between Australia and Nouméa.

Curfews were imposed as riots broke out in Nouméa. ( AP Photo )

She hasn't been able to reach anyone in New Caledonia about refunding her domestic flights.

After waiting several weeks, her travel insurer agreed to pay her claim for money lost on cancelled bookings.

Ms Bold was saddened to see how cancellations had affected tourism businesses.

"They've lost their livelihoods in the space of a couple of weeks," she said.

New Caledonia will stay firmly on her bucket list, but she expects a long wait.

"I can't imagine when we would go. And from what I've heard, there's a lot of rebuilding to happen in Nouméa. There's a lot of burnt buildings."

A Nouméa car dealership burnt during the height of New Caledonia's riots in May. ( AFP: Theo Rouby )

Before the turmoil, New Caledonia's tourism was recovering from COVID border closures, receiving more than 125,000 international tourists and 340,000 cruise ship passengers in 2023.

Most of its recovery was driven by increases in Australian, New Zealand and French tourists compared to 2019.

But there was room to grow, and tourism was viewed as an important industry as New Caledonia looked to develop its economy outside nickel mining.

The territory drew 24,000 Australian tourists last year, half the number compared to neighbouring Vanuatu (51,000), and a fraction of the number visiting Fiji (390,000).

A national park in Great South on New Caledonia's main island, one of the territory's tourist attractions. ( Supplied: Anne Fonua )

Mimsy Daly, president of business group Mouvement des Entreprises de Nouvelle-Calédonie, said businesses were ready to invest in the industry before recent events crashed the economy.

There were plans to open a new five-star hotel in the Loyalty Islands, east of New Caledonia's main island.

"All of this has been put to an end by the unrest."

P&O Cruises Australia and Carnival Cruise Line have cancelled 10 visits to Nouméa between June and August, re-routing to Vanuatu.

Air New Zealand has paused flights to Nouméa until September, while Qantas and Fiji Airways have not announced when they'll resume services to New Caledonia.

New Caledonia's international airport partially reopened earlier this month, and the territory's international carrier, Air Calin, is operating a limited schedule of flights.

Pro-independence protesters kick back tear gas canisters in a clash with French gendarmes removing a roadblock in Dumbéa last week. ( AFP: Delphine Mayeur )

Tourism businesses, industry leaders and the government say New Caledonia is many months away from being able to host tourists.

In a recent survey, about 50 per cent of tourism operators said they believed they could resume business within three months if the unrest subsided.

A fresh surge in violence last week, after French authorities sent seven pro-independence activists to France for detention, may have dashed any hopes of a quicker return for tourism.

French police forces removed roadblocks set up by pro-independence supporters in Nouméa after a renewed surge in unrest last week. ( AFP: Delphine Mayeur )

"For now, we don't feel safe. Mostly, it's complicated in New Caledonia to go from one place to another," Ms Daly said.

"We need peace. We need a political solution that is long lasting, that can guarantee that peace will be lasting as well."

Surviving, and hoping

In a bid to quell the unrest, France sent 3,000 troops and police to New Caledonia in May. Some hotels in Nouméa were requisitioned to accommodate the forces.

Other businesses are still looking for relief from the halt in tourism, and are concerned for their finances.

Debt repayments for a new bus weigh on Ms Fonua, who hopes her bank can give her some reprieve.

Erin Mattei, who operates La Belle Verte Canopy Tours, a zipline in Nouméa, believes she can continue her business if local people are able to visit.

"We survived the COVID crisis. I am going to do everything I can to keep our business open," she said.

Further north on New Caledonia's main island, Kiara Mediara, who operates Chez Élise guesthouse, is cooking with wood fires due to gas shortages.

"We're keeping our heads up and we're moving forward. I remain positive for the future of Kanaky," she said.

"I hope that things will calm down and that tourism will get back to what it was, because we like to share our knowledge and our culture with everyone."

Anse Vata beach in Nouméa, one of the city's drawcards for visitors to New Caledonia. ( Supplied: Anne Fonua )

But Ms Daly said the business community was concerned about the future of tourism operators outside Nouméa.

"We are pretty worried that for a long time, there will be no activity. And we are working closely with the French government to see if we can find ways to [keep] these companies living for the time being."

Tourism is only one of the industries devastated in New Caledonia's turmoil.

Ms Daly said the territory's unemployment was at 20 per cent, up from about 5 per cent before the violence erupted.

"We have lost most of our commercial distribution capacity in the Nouméa area," she said.

"Forty per cent of the food stores have been destroyed. Other commercial areas have been totally destroyed as well, the automobile sector, the industry sector in some areas.

"It's happened all of a sudden. And we need to figure out how we can manage the country now, in this new situation."

The electoral reforms have been suspended because of France's parliamentary elections, which begin today, and many in New Caledonia hope talks about a political solution to the unrest can start soon.

The territory's main tourism body, Nouvelle-Calédonie Tourisme, aims to have international visitors returning in the last quarter of 2024.

When it comes time to rebuild New Caledonia, Ms Daly said tourists will play a major part.

"We will be very happy to welcome tourism again," she said.

Ms Fonua said messages of support from her former customers have lifted her spirits during a dark chapter.

Her message for people overseas is to think positively about New Caledonia.

"Once things open up, I'm sure that a lot of tourists will come back in, because a lot of areas for tourism are not spoiled."

AUS: 1300 660 442 - NZ : 0800 890 118

NEW CALEDONIA TRAVEL

New caledonia holidays, discover a french paradise at your doorstep.

Discover the French way of life in the South Pacific! Literally on our doorstep, just over 2 hours flying time from Brisbane, under 3 hours from Sydney and less than 4 hours from Melbourne, New Caledonia is a destination known as the Pacific “French Riviera”. This warm, semi-tropical paradise not only sets itself apart from the delight of holidaying on a white sandy beach, snorkelling or sailing in crystal, clear waters and relaxing on a South Pacific island, New Caledonia also adds the flavour of Europe – the France of the South Pacific – from cuisine to wine and shopping to language. Explore Noumea and the island of Grande Terre, the Isle of Pines and the four Loyalty Islands of Lifou, Ouvéa, Maré and Tiga. With a range of affordable New Caledonia  holiday packages , this is your chance to experience a different side of France. We are a preferred partner of New Caledonia Tourism and Australia’s leading travel specialist for New Caledonia.

New Caledonia Holiday Packages

NOUMEA + ISLE OF PINES 7 NIGHTS from $2,490 PP

NOUMEA + ISLE OF PINES 7 NIGHTS from $2,990 PP

ESCAPE TO PARADISE 7 NIGHTS from $2,090 PP

1 BEDROOM SUPERIOR SUITE 7 NIGHTS from $2,049 PP

CHARMING BUNGALOWS + CAR HIRE 7 NIGHTS from $2,590 PP

NOUMEA + OUVEA 7 NIGHTS from $2,790 PP

New Caledonia Voyages is a niche, independently owned, specialist travel wholesaler that aims to give you a little more than just a holiday. We specialise in travel to New Caledonia , as we believe it is not possible to be good at everything. We also focus on offering the most enriching style of travel. We come to work every day as we are truly passionate about New Caledonia. We are here to ensure your New Caledonia experience is the best it can be, and that you have a really authentic travel experience.

Our Services

Special Offers

As a New Caledonia travel specialist we work closely with our hotels and airlines partners. These relationships, combined with our diverse product range and exclusive hotel deals, ensure we offer you packages including airfares, accommodation, activities and transfers.

When it comes to idyllic island getaways the whole family can enjoy, it’s hard to beat New Caledonia. Loved for its mix of French chic and Melanesian charm, this Pacific Island is the ideal place to soak up a little culture alongside your typical beachside getaway.

New Caledonia is the perfect choice for your unforgettable honeymoon, a beautiful combination of South Pacific island beauty and Parisian charm. At New Caledonia Voyages, we have a myriad of New Caledonia honeymoon packages for the perfect holiday.

New Caledonia offers a wealth of exciting activities. Whether you’re looking for high adventure, extreme thrills or something more relaxed, here are just some of the activities you can enjoy.

Learn French

While enjoying your holiday why not take some time out for some French lessons? Maybe you’re starting from scratch and want to learn the language, or perhaps you’re just looking to brush up on your language skills. Either way this is a great opportunity to delve into New Caledonia’s unique French heritage and experience everything the French and Kanak cultures have to offer. 

Tailor Made

Our unrivalled expertise in luxury, tailor-made, New Caledonia holidays enables us to share our travel experiences with you, to provide a holiday shaped especially around your needs. Whatever your budget or style, all our trips can be tailored or altered to suit your specific requirements.

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New Caledonia

New Caledonia is an overseas collectivity of France with significant autonomy under the terms of the 1998 Noumea Accord. The New Caledonian archipelago is at the southern end of the chain of Melanesian islands, lying around 1500kms to the east of Queensland. Its capital, Noumea, is only two hours flying time from Brisbane.

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The Embassy of France in Australia is responsible for New Caledonia affairs in Australia.

• Embassy of France contact details
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Contact details for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Australia

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Polynesia and Partnerships Branch R.G Casey Building John McEwen Crescent BARTON ACT 0221 Australia

Phone: +61 2 6261 1111

Fax: +61 2-6261 2332

Contact details for New Caledonia

Office for Regional Cooperation and External Relations 7 avenue Paul Doumer, Centre ville

BP M2 98849 Noumea Cedex, New Caledonia Tel: +687 250060

Economic Affairs BP M2 98849 Noumea Cedex, New Caledonia Tel: +687 246565 Fax: +687 246550

New Caledonia Tourism: The official website for tourism in New Caledonia

UPDATE NEW CALEDONIA: The situation is gradually improving but some local disruptions remain. For the next few weeks, travellers are still advised to postpone their trip.

NEW CALEDONIA

Don’t be like everyone else and experience several trips in one, unravel the mysteries of this astonishing French overseas archipelago, hidden in the heart of the South Pacific! With its UNESCO World Heritage-listed lagoons, explosive cultural mix, vast untouched natural spaces and pleasant temperate climate, New Caledonia offers a tourist experience that’s as exotic as it is varied… in a word, “unique”.

Explore the archipelago

• The Islands
• Great South
• Nouméa French Riviera Being a seaside capital, the city presents an array of sports, cultural activities, delectable dining, and a lively nightlife. Discover the region
• The Islands Idyllic Lagoons From Ouvéa to the Isle of Pines, via Lifou, Tiga, and Maré, the five islands bordering Grande Terre attract visitors in search of wilderness, idyllic beaches, and authenticity. Discover the region
• West coast Cowboy Country Vibrant and dynamic, the West Coast offers a plethora of cultural, natural, and sporting activities. Discover the region
• East coast Kanak Spirit The East Coast is an ideal destination for immersive tribal getaways, mountain hikes, and refreshing experiences by rivers and waterfalls. Discover the region
• Great South Land of Adventure Here, the arid red earth is adorned with lakes and rivers and surrounded by prehistoric flora. Discover the region

Discover our favorites

Book your trip

Let yourself be inspired

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Get Closer to What You Love

Welcome to New Caledonia, a hidden gem in the Pacific that is waiting for you to discover its wonders. At its core, a trip to New Caledonia is all about getting closer to what you love. Whether you are seeking an adventure-packed holiday or a relaxing escape, this tropical paradise has something for everyone.

• For the nature lovers , New Caledonia is a playground. You can explore its pristine beaches , hike through its lush forests, and witness its awe-inspiring waterfalls. The marine life here is truly something special, with opportunities for snorkelling , diving , and swimming with turtles and colourful fish. And let’s not forget about the unforgettable sight of horses galloping along the beach at sunset.
• For the culturally curious , New Caledonia is a melting pot of cultures and traditions . You can immerse yourself in the unique blend of French and Melanesian cultures and learn about the indigenous Kanak way of life. The Tjibaou Cultural Center is a must-visit for those interested in the island’s history and customs.
• For those looking for relaxation , New Caledonia is a true paradise. You can unwind on the sandy beaches, soak up the sun, and indulge in some French cuisine and wine. There’s nothing like watching the sunset over the lagoon. And if you’re looking for some excitement, you can dance the night away at one of the island’s many bars and clubs .

So whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or that special someone, New Caledonia is the perfect destination to get closer to what you love. Come and experience the adventure, culture, and relaxation that awaits you in this Pacific paradise.

New Caledonia

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Reaching New Caledonia by sea

• Travel guide
• Arriving by boat

New Caledonia offers an enchanting maritime experience, boasting vast oceanic expanses, a stunning lagoon, well-protected bays, secure anchorages, secluded spots, consistent trade winds, and modern marinas. When arriving by boat, Nouméa serves as the primary port of entry for immigration formalities.

Embark on a cruise

Bring your own boat.

• Where to go
• Visit and book activities
• Frequently asked questions

Around ten cruise lines, including industry leaders like Royal Caribbean Cruise and Carnival Cruise Lines from Australia and New Zealand, make stops in New Caledonia. Typically, these liners disembark passengers in Nouméa between 7 am and 9 am, setting sail again around 5 pm. This allows ample time to explore Nouméa, offering activities such as lagoon snorkelling, city and bay tours, visits to major museums, and various water sports. The cruise terminal (ferry terminal) conveniently welcomes passengers in downtown Nouméa on Jules Ferry Quay. Here, you’ll find tourist service providers and some shops. Tourist buses and taxis provide transportation in the capital, including to nearby beaches and islets.

Before docking

As a vibrant South Pacific city, Nouméa offers a rewarding stopover experience. Yachtsmen should contact “Port Moselle” on VHF (Channel 67) or Port du Sud (24 47 77) for access to Nouméa. Upon arrival, each crew member must present a valid passport and visa, depending on nationality . Remember to display your yellow flag until all formalities are completed.

Visitor-Friendly Ports

• Port Moselle : Limited stay to 3 days in high season (May 15-December 15) and 6 days in low season. Caution is advised when approaching the bay at night, as many boats anchor there without anchor lights.
• Port du Sud : Visitors can stay for up to one month except in the event of a cyclone warning.

Find out more

Capitainerie de Port Moselle : [email protected] – +687 27 71 97 Direction des douanes : [email protected] – +687 26 53 85 Police aux frontières : [email protected] – +687 24 32 00 Find the yacht arrival formalities form to hand to Sivap agents during inspection Sivap : [email protected] – +687 78 26 81

Where to go with your boat?

• Stopover in Nouméa
• Stopover in the Isle of Pines
• Stopover in the Loyalty Islands
• Stopover around Grande Terre

Nouméa ‘s two harbours, Port Moselle and Port du Sud, provide sanitary facilities, water, electricity, laundry, and a service station. Port Moselle offers free wifi. Nearby, you can dine at restaurants serving French and Caledonian cuisine, shop in malls, or enjoy various activities, including diving. Nouméa also hosts numerous boat repair, deck fitting, spare parts, and equipment suppliers. Transit boats enjoy tax exemptions on spare parts for repair work.

For more information, refer to the “ Stopover guide ”

The Southern Province offers 120 moorings in the marine protected areas around Nouméa. Islet Maître, Islet Signal, and Islet Larégnère feature beautiful beaches, barbecue spots, and snorkelling. When mooring, approach the buoys slowly, facing into the wind or current, and be cautious of swimmers and other boats. Check the condition of the mooring line you are using. Before departure, consult the tide times to avoid getting stranded on an islet.

Find out more:

• Guide to the lagoon available on the Province Sud website
• New Caledonia nautical guide
• Download the free Tides NC app for tide times

Anchoring is only authorised in Kuto Bay . Before heading to Île des Pins, yachtsmen should contact the Gendarmerie and the Mairie de l’Île des Pins.

Gendarmerie de l’Île des Pins

• Tel. : +687 44 87 85
• Mail : [email protected]
• Opening hours : Monday to Saturday (7:30am-11:30am and 1:30pm-5:30pm), Sunday and public holidays (8:30am-11:30am and 2:30pm-5:30pm)

Mairie de l’Île des Pins

• Tel. : +687 46 11 03
• Mail : [email protected]
• Opening hours : Monday to Thursday (7am-11:30am and 12:30pm-4:30pm) and Friday (7am-11:30am and 12:30pm-3:30pm)

As part of a sustainable tourism initiative, a mooring area with connected buoys is now available in Kuto Bay on the Isle of Pines.

All you have to do is reserve a buoy on the Connect Kuto application to make mooring easier and more secure, and to benefit from additional services.

• Download on iOS
• Download on Android

Sailing to the Loyalty Islands requires contacting Wé Marina on Lifou. All sailings to Ouvéa, Lifou, or Maré now require validation .

• Tel: +687 45 10 62
• Mail: [email protected] /  [email protected]
• Opening hours: 24/7
• VHF watch: Channel 67

If you wish to anchor outside the marina , please complete and send the anchorage application form below to the Marina de Wé 1 or 2 weeks before your departure.

• Download the form

Numerous anchoring areas are available. Once on site, a request for authorisation accompanied by a “greeting custom” must be submitted to the owner or chief of the tribe below:

• Xépénéhé : WAEHNYA Siwelë.
• Easo : BONUA Guytou, Tel: +687 45 11 11.
• Jokin : ATREA Konë, Tel: +687 96 68 96.
• Drueulu : QENENOJ Hulikoko, Tel: +687 80 58 76, see anchoring rules .

Anchoring is possible in the Tadine bay , but beware of the traffic zone for coasters (freight transport) and the Betico, which have priority. Please enquire after anchoring to arrange a custom . If there are no cruise liners on arrival, boaters can use the pontoon dedicated to cruise liners with their dinghy.

• Mairie de Maré : Tél.: +687 45 49 00.
• Antenne de la Province des Îles à Maré (DGSM): Tél.: +687 45 44 00.

Pending customary agreements, it is advisable to anchor in front of the Mouli chiefdom or the gendarmerie in Fayaoué. Once there, enquire about making a customary gesture to the owner or tribal chief.

• Mouli tribe : Mr DOUMAI Ambroise, Tel: +687 96 60 41.
• Fayaoué : Gendarmerie: Tel: +687 45 53 10. Antenne de la Province des Îles (DGSO): Tél.: +687 45 52 50.

The Great South offers vast landscapes of red earth, mining scrub, and rivers. Safe anchorages between the capital and the South lagoon are found in Prony Bay , Port Boisé , and Île Ouen . This region is also known for humpback whale sightings between mid-July and mid-September.

The leeward West Coast features wide-open spaces with niaouli tree savannahs, mangroves, stockmen, cattle, and rodeos. Numerous safe anchorages allow you to enjoy wild bays and islets, including Ténia islet , Saint-Vincent Bay , Croissant Bay , and Koumac.

The windward East Coast offers a change of scenery and authenticity with Melanesian tribes and lush valleys. Sheltered anchorages along this coast, such as Hienghène or Port Bouquet , are ideal for stopovers.

The Grand Lagon Nord is a UNESCO World Heritage site, wild and exotic. It provides a sense of the end of the world, both on land and at sea. Anchorages like Chasseloup Bay, Bélep Island, Boat Pass, and Neba await your visit.

Before leaving

Departure formalities must be completed within 24 hours before departure, and by Friday at the latest for boats leaving the Territory over the weekend. The boat’s papers and passports should be presented to:

• Customs (using the form provided upon arrival)
• The immigration department
• The Port Autonome harbour master’s office, which issues the clearance

Vessels leaving Nouméa are no longer authorised to call on the Territory of New Caledonia, including the Isle of Pines and the Loyalty Islands.

The best time to sail in New Caledonia is during the cool season , from late April to mid-November , when trade winds prevail, allowing for pleasant sailing conditions. From December to April, the cyclone season makes sailing less favourable.

New Caledonia is equipped with well-appointed shipyards , and service providers are proficient in various fields. You can find a directory of service providers for repairs in your port of call booklet.

Noumea Yacht Services , located on the waterfront of the main port and marina facilities, offers comprehensive services for yachts, superyachts, and mega yachts. Their staff is fluent in English, French, and Spanish, providing services such as customs clearance, administrative formalities, caretaking, repairs, recruitment of onboard personnel, provisioning, organisation of activities and visits, on-site transfers, and transport services, among others.

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