Best Things to Do in Vanuatu: Your 2026 Island Guide

1. Swim in Vanuatu's Famous Blue Holes

Vanuatu's blue holes are famous for their incredibly clear, bright blue freshwater. Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu's largest island, is known for its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes and incredible natural swimming spots. It's home to some of the best-known blue holes, including Nanda Blue Hole and Matevulu Blue Hole. Spend a few hours swimming, kayaking or simply relaxing beside the water. They're a great addition to any Vanuatu itinerary, particularly if you're visiting Espiritu Santo.

2. See Mount Yasur Volcano

For something completely different, head to Tanna Island and visit Mount Yasur, one of Vanuatu's most famous natural attractions. The active volcano is known for its dramatic displays, making it one of the most memorable experiences you can have in Vanuatu. Many travellers choose to visit later in the day when the glow from the crater becomes even more impressive.

3. Relax on Champagne Beach

If your idea of a Vanuatu holiday involves white sand and clear tropical water, add Champagne Beach to your list. Located on Espiritu Santo, it's one of Vanuatu's best-known beaches and a beautiful spot for swimming, relaxing and enjoying a slower island day.

4. Snorkel and Dive Vanuatu's Reefs

Vanuatu is surrounded by warm tropical waters, coral reefs and abundant marine life, making snorkelling and diving a must for ocean lovers. Beginners can find plenty of accessible snorkelling spots, while experienced divers can explore reefs, underwater landscapes and famous wreck sites such as the SS President Coolidge near Espiritu Santo.

5. What to Do in Port Vila, Vanuatu

Wondering what to do in Vanuatu's Port Vila? Located on the island of Efate, the capital is where many travellers begin their holiday and makes a convenient base for exploring the island. Some of the best things to do in and around Port Vila include:

• Explore Port Vila Market – Browse fresh tropical produce, local food and handicrafts while experiencing a taste of everyday life in Vanuatu.

• Visit Mele Cascades – Take a short trip outside Port Vila to discover tropical surroundings, natural pools and waterfalls.

• Spend a day at Hideaway Island – Go snorkelling, relax by the water and enjoy an easy island escape from Port Vila.

• Try local food – Sample fresh seafood, tropical fruit and traditional Vanuatu dishes.

• Explore Efate – Use Port Vila as your base for day trips around the island, discovering beaches, lagoons and local cultural experiences.

Port Vila is a great choice for first-time visitors, especially if you want a mix of relaxing resort time, sightseeing and easy day trips.

6. Experience Ni-Vanuatu Culture

Vanuatu isn't only about beaches and beautiful scenery. Taking the time to learn about Ni-Vanuatu culture can be one of the most rewarding parts of your trip. Depending on where you visit, there are opportunities to experience traditional villages, local food, markets, music and customs while learning more about life across Vanuatu's islands.

Which Vanuatu Island Should You Visit?

With more than 80 islands, deciding where to go can be part of the adventure. For most visitors, Efate, Espiritu Santo and Tanna are three of the main islands to consider.

• Efate is a great choice for first-time visitors. It's home to Port Vila, resorts, restaurants and plenty of easy day trips.

• Espiritu Santo is ideal for beautiful beaches, blue holes, snorkelling and diving.

• Tanna is the island to consider if seeing Mount Yasur is at the top of your Vanuatu bucket list.

If you have enough time, combining more than one island can give you a taste of the different experiences Vanuatu has to offer.

Ready to Plan Your Vanuatu Holiday?

From swimming in blue holes and snorkelling tropical reefs to exploring Port Vila and seeing an active volcano, Vanuatu packs plenty into a South Pacific holiday. 

Once you've decided what you want to see, the next step is working out how to get there. Read our guide to flying to Vanuatu in 2026 to find out which airlines fly to Vanuatu, popular routes from Australia and tips for comparing fares.

You can also compare flights to Vanuatu with Mix & Match to find an option that suits your dates, budget and travel plans.