Things to Do in Luganville

Luganville sits on the southern coast of Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu's largest island, and serves as the country's second-largest town. What makes this place genuinely interesting isn't just its role as a commercial hub, but its proximity to some of the South Pacific's most remarkable underwater attractions - most notably the SS President Coolidge, the world's largest accessible shipwreck. The town itself has a laid-back, frontier feel that's part tropical outpost, part diving mecca, where you'll find a mix of local ni-Vanuatu culture, expat dive operators, and the kind of unhurried pace that makes you wonder why you ever lived anywhere else. Beyond the famous wreck diving, Luganville offers access to pristine blue holes, traditional villages, and some surprisingly good local markets. The town tends to attract a specific type of traveler - those who prioritize authentic experiences over polished tourist infrastructure. You'll find the accommodations are comfortable rather than luxurious, the restaurants serve honest local food alongside international options, and the whole place has an authenticity that's increasingly rare in Pacific destinations.

The dining scene is pleasantly unpretentious, with several good options serving fresh seafood and local specialties alongside international fare. The Deco Stop Cafe is popular with divers for hearty breakfasts and decent coffee, while places like Nambawan Cafe serve solid local dishes including the ubiquitous lap lap. You'll also find a handful of Chinese restaurants that are surprisingly good, reflecting the local Chinese community. Most restaurants are casual affairs where you might find yourself chatting with fellow travelers over a South Pacific lager, and prices are generally reasonable by Pacific island standards.

The dry season from May to October offers the most reliable weather and best diving conditions, with calmer seas and clearer visibility underwater. That said, Luganville is diveable year-round, and the wet season (November to April) brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds, though you'll deal with occasional heavy rain and rougher seas. Temperatures stay fairly consistent in the mid-80s°F throughout the year, so it's more about rainfall and sea conditions than temperature when planning your visit.