Things To Do
in Luganville
Luganville sits on Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu's largest island, where emerald lagoons meet pearly beaches. The town serves as a gateway to world-renowned WWII relics, limestone caves, and pristine reefs just offshore. Life here moves at a relaxed tempo, with locals greeting visitors with smiles and a warm, welcoming culture.
Beyond town, dense jungle, dramatic coastlines, and turquoise waters invite adventurous day trips and unforgettable snorkeling adventures.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arriving in the vibrant town of Luganville, take a moment to immerse yourself in the local culture. Enjoy a delicious breakfast featuring traditional Vanuatu dishes, and adjust to the tropical climate. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront to appreciate the stunning views of Etate Island.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided tour of the charming town, visiting local markets and historical sites. Engage with friendly locals, and perhaps purchase handcrafted souvenirs to remember your trip. Make sure to stop by a local café for a refreshing coconut drink.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a seaside restaurant featuring fresh seafood and local delicacies. Join a cultural dance performance to experience the vibrant traditions of Vanuatu firsthand. End your evening with a relaxed walk along the beach, savoring the sound of the waves.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a boat tour to explore the beautiful Santo Island. Enjoy the crystalline waters and stop for a swim in the famous Blue Hole. Take your time to capture the stunning landscapes and the rich marine life around you.
After lunch, visit the remarkable Million Dollar Point, where the U.S. military dumped equipment at the end of World War II. Snorkel among the sunken treasures and vibrant coral reefs that make this area unique. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, soaking up the sun under the tropical sky.
Head back to Luganville for a laid-back evening filled with delicious island cuisine. Participate in a community bonfire on the beach, where locals often gather to share stories and music. Join in the festivities or simply enjoy the tranquil atmosphere as the stars twinkle above.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-5 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $1-3 |
| 🚗Taxi ride (short distance) | $5-15 |
| 🏨Budget dorm bed | $12-25 per night |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and pristine reefs
- Warm, welcoming locals and a relaxed pace of life
- Limited nightlife and few high-end dining options
- Occasional difficulty finding certain services outside town
- "Halo" - Hello
- "Tank yu" - Thank you
- "Plis" - Please
- "Hau much dis?" - How much is this?
- "Wea i stap toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
Places to Visit in Luganville
Visit one of these nice places.
A famous WWII wreckage dump site along the coast, perfect for dramatic coastal shots and rusty relics against turquoise water.
A stunning, luminous blue sinkhole surrounded by lush rainforest; ideal for underwater photography and dramatic lighting.
The cave entrance offers dramatic limestone formations and a sense of adventure; great for landscape photography at the cave mouth.
Iconic WWII wreck; for photography, both exterior vantage points and underwater shots capture the scale and history.
Food in Luganville
Luganville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A steamed cassava, banana, or taro dish cooked in coconut milk and wrapped in banana leaves; a staple across Vanuatu.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught reef fish, commonly served with a bright coconut sauce and zesty lime.
Seasonal delicacy featuring sweet coconut flavors, typically served with cassava or taro.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling waterfront market offering fresh fruit, seafood, root vegetables, and homemade snacks; great for sampling local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask for permission before photographing people or villages; respect local customs and traditional chiefs when visiting communities.
In villages and religious sites, wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Safety
Tipping in Luganville
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; add a small tip for good service at restaurants if a service charge is not included.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant, sunny days with cooler nights; ideal for outdoor activities and photography sessions, though evenings can be chilly by tropical standards.
Warmer and more humid with afternoon rain showers; rain can bring dramatic skies and lush landscapes but plan flexible outdoor activities due to possible storms.
Luganville at Night
Hiking in Luganville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famous guided hike through a canyon to a cave with a river and waterfall.
A short track to the blue hole and nearby viewpoints with rainforest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Luganville by plane.
Located near Luganville, this is the main gateway to Espiritu Santo, offering domestic and some international connections. Ground transfers to town are short.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population; diverse cultures across Espiritu Santo.
A small but present community, especially in towns and at resorts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local leagues and informal games in parks and beaches.
Rugby union is widely played and watched on weekends.
A common pastime during the dry season in parks and schools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Luganville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can rely on fresh fruits, salads, steamed vegetables, cassava, taro, and coconut-based dishes; ask for vegetable curries or grilled fish with vegetables when in doubt.