Things to do in New Caledonia: turquoise lagoons, preserved islands, and natural treasures of the Pacific
Natural and cultural sites of New Caledonia, featuring national parks, beaches, islands, bays, historical monuments, and cultural centers. This South Pacific region offers natural geological formations, marine reserves, colonial and religious buildings, as well as traditional Kanak sites. The territory includes diving spots, caves, cliffs, maritime lighthouses, and local markets representing the natural and architectural heritage of the archipelago.
Voh, New Caledonia
Seen from the sky, the mangrove forms a perfect heart amidst the marshes. This natural symbol, captured by Yann Arthus-Bertrand, embodies the wild beauty of northern New Caledonia.
New Caledonia
Known as "the island closest to paradise," it reveals perfect beaches and crystal-clear waters. Columnar pines line the sand, and canoes glide in Upi Bay. A preserved jewel of the Pacific.
Southern Province, New Caledonia
Green lung of Grande Terre, this park is home to the cagou, an iconic flightless bird. Waterfalls, trails, forests, and suspension bridges make it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Marine center exhibiting over 2000 lagoon fish from New Caledonia, corals, and nautiluses in 33 different tanks.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Designed by architect Renzo Piano, this landmark in Nouméa combines modernity and Kanak culture. Its monumental huts evoke tradition, and its exhibitions tell the story of the Caledonian people's identity.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Covered market open every morning where local producers sell fruits, vegetables, fish, and crafts since 1981.
Ouvéa, New Caledonia
Concrete structure 165 meters long built in 1984 to connect the two islands. The bridge offers a view over the lagoon.
Lifou, New Caledonia
Religious building constructed of stone at the top of a hill at 30 meters altitude. The chapel allows observation of Chépénéhé Bay.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Standing on its white islet, this 1862 metal lighthouse still guides ships. From its top, the view of the lagoon and the coral reefs is breathtaking.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Small island of 8 hectares surrounded by a coral reef, accessible by shuttle from Anse Vata Bay.
Moindou, New Caledonia
Witness to the penal history of New Caledonia, this fort from 1871 recounts the history of the colonial prison. Its simple architecture overlooks the plain and depicts the lives of inmates and guards.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
White sand beach of 2 kilometers in the southern district of Nouméa, bordered by palm trees and frequented for swimming and water sports.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
A few minutes by boat from Nouméa, this coral islet is a well-known diving spot. You can see turtles, parrotfish, and rays in the wild.
Isle of Pines, New Caledonia
According to legend, Queen Hortense sought refuge here during tribal wars. This large cavity adorned with stalactites and hanging roots impresses with its depth.
Lifou, New Caledonia
White sand, coconut trees, and coral rocks: this Lifou beach is one of the most photogenic in the Pacific. beneath the surface, tropical fish create a constant spectacle.
Isle of Pines, New Caledonia
On the Island of Pines, this protected cove hosts a sacred rock and a lagoon of exceptional clarity. The pine trees bordering the area emphasize the site's distinctive appeal.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Long arc of white sand with several dining establishments along the waterfront. Water activities center near downtown.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
34-hectare conservation space showcasing endemic species like the cagou, flying foxes, and parakeets. Collection of local plants.
New Caledonia
Surrounded by pines and corals, this natural pool on the Isle of Pines is a seawater basin where multicolored fish and rays swim. A magical place at high tide.
Maré, New Caledonia
Underground geological formation with limestone structures. Freshwater basin inside allows swimming under rocky arches.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Hill overlooking Nouméa, offering a 360° view of the city and islands. A popular spot for walks at sunset.
Bourail, New Caledonia
Long black sand beach bordered by rocks where waves attract surfers. A coastal path leads to the Bonhomme of Bourail.
Isle of Pines, New Caledonia
Catholic religious building constructed in 1860, characterized by its colonial architecture, colorful stained glass windows, and carved wooden ceiling.
Lifou, New Caledonia
Vertical rock formations 30 meters high containing caves where the Kanaks once placed their dead according to tradition.
Southern Province, New Caledonia
At the southern tip of Grande Terre, this nature reserve offers a view of whale migrations. In season, they can be seen from the cliffs.
Southern Province, New Caledonia
In the Southern Province, this waterfall flows amid a botanical park. The site hosts several endemic species, some of which are found nowhere else.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Stone religious building from the 19th century built following a Latin cross plan by prisoners of the colonial penal settlement.
Ouvéa, New Caledonia
In Lifou, these tall limestone cliffs once housed Kanak tombs. Today, they offer a unique vantage point over the sea and seabirds.
Southern Province, New Caledonia
Old penal colony, this abandoned site bears traces of the beginnings of the mining and forestry industries. The ruins fade into the vegetation.
Isle of Pines, New Caledonia
On Isle of Pines, traditional dugout canoes are used to sail between cliffs and clear lagoons. The silence and slow pace of the journey encapsulate the spirit of the Pacific.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Central public space in Nouméa with gardens, a concert kiosk, and a Celestial fountain. Aligned palm trees create shaded areas.
Nouméa, New Caledonia
Beautiful 19th-century colonial residence surrounded by a tropical garden. Today, it hosts exhibitions and concerts in Nouméa.