New Caledonia Travel Planner

Bienvenue! Welcome to New Caledonia- a French holiday playground of sun, sea, sand and sumptuous cuisine. Just over two hours from Sydney and Brisbane, this enigmatic nation is unique in the South Pacific isles, offering surprises at every turn.

History & culture

New Caledonia was initially settled by the Melanesians 2000 to 3000 years ago. Its capital, Nouméa is linked to some of history's greatest adventurers. Captain Cook discovered Nouméa in 1774, on his way to New Zealand. Clearly captivated by the island's exotic allure, Napoleon III declared Nouméa a part of France in 1853. The largest and most cosmopolitan city among the South Pacific isles, Nouméa reflects its French influences and is like the French Riviera transplanted in the Pacific.

In New Caledonia you'll find a traditional and very old Melanesian culture lived out by the locals that is contrasted against a distinctly European way of life. Fine food and wine, including cheeses, pâtés and game are sold alongside traditional foods such as coconuts and yams in the local markets; luxury yachts share the same blue waters as traditional outrigger canoes; old friends gather under palms to play pétanque in the afternoons.

Islands & resorts

New Caledonia is made up of a series of islands, the largest being the cigar-shaped Grand Terre, home to the nation's capital Nouméa. Known as 'La Roche' (the Rock) to the locals, there is a lot more to discover on the main island than Nouméa; a visit to the exotic east coast is accessible and very rewarding.

To enjoy the best of New Caledonia, choose one of Nouméa's five-star resorts such as the luxurious Le Méridien which is perfect for couples. You can also choose apartment-style accommodation such as La Promenade, ideal for both couples wanting a little more independence, as well as families.

For more five-star luxury, couples should head to the remote island beauty of the Le Méridien Isle of Pines, with its unbelievable beaches and lagoon. The Isle of Pines is often referred to as the 'Jewel of the Pacific', and a few days exploring its turquoise bays will explain why. A combination of volcanic geology and uplifted coral reef create a prehistoric landscape, capped off by the island's towering araucaria columnaris pines.

The Loyalty Islands: Lifou, Maré and Ouvéa are mystical lands of legend, tradition and some of New Caledonia's most sumptuous landscapes. You can also enjoy the hospitality and discover the Kanak life in all its authenticity in the Loyalty Islands, the locals having preserved the most powerful traditions of the territory. There is a nice range of accommodation options here for those who are looking to get away from it all.

Nature

New Caledonia is a haven for lovers of both nature and adventure. Beyond Nouméa is a natural landscape rich in tropical botany and fauna. The diversity of landscapes is beyond imagination: magnificent flora and fauna, spectacular mountains and lush forests, swimming and diving in emerald waters.

One of the four richest areas on earth in terms of its biodiversity, New Caledonia is home to 3000 indigenous plant species, 4500 species of land animals and 68 types of birds. Meet the national bird-the flightless cagou. The world's largest lagoon provides a home for dugongs, nautilus whales and countless numbers of corals and tropical fish.

Dining

New Caledonian cuisine is as varied as its people. Savour world-renowned French cuisine, with exotic food and wine flown directly from France, freshly baked croissants, baguettes and patisseries. Also enjoy fresh seafood platters, tropical fruits, Italian, Indonesian, Chinese, Vietnamese, Japanese or traditional Melanesian cuisine: there is something for every taste and every budget.

Watch the world pass by from an outdoor café, lay back and enjoy a picnic on a secluded beach or an elegant gourmet dinner fanned by gentle trade winds.

Shopping

Duty- free shopping is restricted to Nouméa. You will find a wide range of designer labels in Nouméa's elegant shops, the most comprehensive range of French perfumes and cosmetics outside Paris and the latest in European shoes. There are colourful markets where you can buy pareos and other souvenirs.

Get in the know

Surprisingly few tourists leave Nouméa to travel to the exotic east coast or Northern province of Grande Terre, or to the outlying Islands. But to experience the 'real' New Caledonia, this is a must. In the Northern Province you can go diving and hiking, but also really meet the locals and share in a bougna (traditional feast dish of the Kanaks) in a tribe, while listening to tales and legends about the Kanak world.