New Caledonia Destination Guide
Choosing between a taste of France or an island escape to the Pacific? Luckily, New Caledonia has the best of both worlds! New Caledonia may not be as well known as its oceanic neighbours Fiji and Vanuatu, but that’s all part of its charm.
New Caledonia, or 'the Pebble' as it is known in French, lies in the heart of the South Pacific. This French territory effortlessly blends Melanesian and Gallic influences and there’s nowhere better to experience this melange than the city of Noumea.
Take a cultural detour to…
- Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre
- Musee de Nouvelle Caledonie
- Le Musee Maritime
The cosmopolitan capital is comfortable catering to a discerning crowd, boasting plenty of Parisian-esque restaurants and shopping boutiques close to its cruise port. Indulge in shopping for high-end fashion north of the city centre before stopping for a decadent drink and dinner in one of Rue de Sebastopol's fine-dining establishments.
Stroll through the morning markets at Port Moselle Marina to snap up a bargain and sample some typical Kanak and French snacks. Amid the bright colour and noisy fun of the stalls, you'll discover freshly baked croissants, fresh fruit, vegetables and honeycomb.
Explore Noumea’s districts of…
- Vallee des Colons
- Quartier Latin
- Fauborg Blanchot
New Caledonia tours offer a taste of France in a distinctly South Pacific tropical setting; an idyllic natural paradise comprising Grand Terre – the "jewel of the South Pacific", The Isle of Pines, and the Loyalty Islands.
"Le Caillou", as New Caledonia is nicknamed in French, is also an archipelago primed for outdoor pursuits. Home to the world’s largest coral lagoon as well as pristine beaches and a spectacular outlying island dotted with pines, New Caledonia offers ample opportunity to immerse yourself in nature.
There are New Caledonia tours to cater to all tastes and budgets, from those on a beer budget to those after a champagne lifestyle.
Enjoy a taste of France at…
- La Chaumiere
- Le Fare
- L'Hippocampe
Beyond Noumea, you can explore the mountainous regions of the main island, Grande Terre, with its cascading waterfalls and the largest coral lagoon in the world. The South Pacific's third largest island, Grande Terre boasts plenty of water sports, fishing, boating and snorkelling.
New Caledonia resorts feature high quality kids' clubs, multiple swimming pools and bars and restaurants to suit every taste. For couples seeking a romantic getaway and a little peace and quiet, you can't beat Le Meridien on the Isle of Pines.
Get back to nature and visit…
- Ile des Pins (Isle of Pines)
- The Grande Randonnee
- Mount Ouen Toro
New Caledonia is the perfect destination for singles, couples and families from all walks of life. New Caledonia holidays are a sure-fire cure for the stresses of everyday life. Book your flights to New Caledonia to find your own slice of island paradise.