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Efate, Vanuatu - Things to Do in Efate

Things to Do in Efate

Efate, Vanuatu - Complete Travel Guide

Efate is the main island of Vanuatu and home to the capital city Port Vila, offering visitors a perfect blend of Melanesian culture, stunning natural beauty, and modern amenities. This tropical paradise features pristine beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes, making it an ideal destination for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in a peaceful Pacific setting. The island's rich cultural heritage is evident in its traditional villages, local markets, and warm, welcoming people who maintain strong connections to their ancestral customs. With its compact size and diverse attractions, Efate provides easy access to world-class diving sites, beautiful waterfalls, cultural experiences, and luxury resorts. The island serves as an excellent base for exploring Vanuatu's other islands while offering plenty of activities and attractions to keep visitors engaged for days. From snorkeling in protected marine sanctuaries to experiencing traditional kastom villages, Efate delivers an authentic South Pacific experience that combines natural wonders with genuine cultural encounters.

Top Things to Do in Efate

Blue Lagoon and Cascades

Visit the stunning freshwater swimming holes and waterfalls located in the island's interior. The crystal-clear blue pools are perfect for swimming and the surrounding tropical vegetation creates a magical atmosphere. Multiple cascades and pools offer different swimming experiences throughout the site.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around 500 VUV per person. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and harsh midday sun. Bring water shoes as rocks can be slippery, and consider hiring a local guide for the best photo spots.

Cultural Village Tours

Experience authentic Melanesian culture by visiting traditional kastom villages where locals demonstrate ancient customs, traditional cooking methods, and ceremonial dances. These immersive experiences provide insight into Vanuatu's rich cultural heritage and way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Booking Tip: Tours typically cost 3,000-5,000 VUV including traditional lunch. Book through reputable operators who ensure fair compensation to villages. Best visited during weekdays when villages are more active with daily life activities.

Snorkeling and Diving Excursions

Explore Efate's pristine coral reefs, underwater caves, and the famous Million Dollar Point dive site where WWII military equipment was dumped. The island offers excellent visibility, diverse marine life including tropical fish, rays, and occasionally dolphins and whales.

Booking Tip: Diving trips range from 8,000-12,000 VUV per dive including equipment. Choose PADI-certified operators with good safety records. Best visibility is typically during dry season (May-October). Snorkeling trips are more affordable at 3,000-5,000 VUV.

Sunset Harbor Cruise

Enjoy spectacular Pacific sunsets from the water while sailing around Port Vila's beautiful harbor. These relaxing cruises often include drinks, light snacks, and opportunities to spot flying foxes returning to roost as darkness falls.

Booking Tip: Sunset cruises cost 4,000-6,000 VUV per person including drinks. Book for clear weather days and arrive 15 minutes early for best seating. Some operators offer dinner cruises for 8,000-10,000 VUV with full meals included.

Island Circle Tour

Discover Efate's diverse landscapes on a full-day tour that includes beaches, villages, viewpoints, and natural attractions. These comprehensive tours provide an excellent overview of the island's geography, culture, and history while visiting multiple highlights in one day.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours cost 8,000-12,000 VUV including lunch and transportation. Choose small group tours for more personalized experience. Bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and swimwear for beach stops.

Getting There

Bauerfield Airport (Port Vila Airport) is Efate's main gateway, located just 6km from Port Vila center. Air Vanuatu and Jetstar operate regular flights from Australia (Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne), New Zealand (Auckland), and other Pacific destinations. Flight times are approximately 2.5 hours from Brisbane and 3 hours from Auckland. The airport is small but efficient, with immigration and customs processes typically completed within 30 minutes. Cruise ships also regularly dock at Port Vila's harbor, making it a popular South Pacific cruise destination.

Getting Around

Rental cars are the most flexible way to explore Efate, with several international and local companies operating from the airport and Port Vila. The main ring road circles the island and is mostly sealed, though some attractions require short drives on unsealed roads. Local buses (usually minivans) run regularly around the island for budget travelers, costing 150-300 VUV per trip. Taxis are available in Port Vila and can be arranged for day trips, though this is more expensive than rental cars. Many hotels and resorts offer shuttle services to popular attractions and the airport.

Where to Stay

Port Vila Waterfront
Erakor Lagoon
Mele Bay
Havannah Harbour
Pango Village
Forari

Food & Dining

Efate's dining scene centers around Port Vila, offering everything from upscale resort restaurants to local market stalls. The waterfront area features numerous restaurants serving fresh seafood, French-influenced cuisine reflecting Vanuatu's colonial history, and international dishes. Don't miss trying lap lap (Vanuatu's national dish), fresh coconut crab, and locally caught fish prepared in traditional earth ovens. The central market is perfect for tropical fruits, fresh produce, and authentic local snacks. Many resorts offer excellent dining experiences, while beachside cafes provide casual meals with stunning ocean views.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Vanuatu

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

The Beach Bar

4.5 /5
(524 reviews)

The Stonegrill Restaurant

4.7 /5
(427 reviews)

Tamanu on the beach

4.7 /5
(214 reviews)
lodging spa

SWAGAT RESTAURANT NADI

4.6 /5
(208 reviews)

Three Pigs

4.5 /5
(167 reviews)
bar

Tanna Coffee

4.6 /5
(150 reviews)
cafe store

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The dry season from May to October offers the most comfortable weather with lower humidity, minimal rainfall, and consistent trade winds. This period is ideal for outdoor activities, diving, and cultural tours, though it's also the busiest and most expensive time. The wet season (November-April) brings higher temperatures, humidity, and occasional cyclones, but also lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and better accommodation deals. Water temperatures remain warm year-round (24-28°C), making swimming and water activities enjoyable regardless of season.

Insider Tips

Visit Port Vila's market early on Saturday mornings for the best selection of local produce and handicrafts at the lowest prices
Many restaurants and tour operators close on Sundays, so plan accordingly and book Saturday dinner reservations in advance
Bring reef-safe sunscreen as regular sunscreen is harmful to coral reefs and some operators won't allow it on snorkeling trips

Explore Activities in Efate