Iririki Island

Sitting off the coast of Port Vila, the highest peak of Irirki Island was home to the British Residency right up until 1980, when Vanuatu gained independence. Covering 28 hectares, this island is now known for its beautiful luxury resort, where guests can sleep in oceanfront cabins, snorkel, and enjoy cultural events.

Even if you’re not a guest at the resort, you can visit for the day, and entrance is totally free. As the island is so small you needn’t worry about transport once you’re there – you can walk around the whole island in twenty minutes. Rent a bicycle from the resort and explore the small inland resorts. Take part in a hill walk that climbs the 179 steps all the way to the former British residency.

Fans of watersports will be in their element, with snorkelling, kayaking and jet-skis all available. If you head out to nearby Paradise Cove make sure you keep an eye out for local dolphins! Even if you’re not a fan of ocean-based activities there is plenty to do, with volley ball courts, sun loungers, and a selection of good massage and therapeutic treatments available at the resort.

There are four different restaurants to choose from, all of which offer a fusion of South Pacific and international cuisine. A must-visit is the beautiful Michener’s Restaurant, named after Pulitzer Prize-winning author James A. Michener. Join one of the Melanesian feasts, where you can enjoy local delicacies and enjoy a classical dance performance.

Those with children needn’t worry about keeping them entertained. A kids club for 3-12 year olds organises games, nature walks and painting activities. The resort also has swimming pools and a games room with table tennis and a football table.

Irirki Island is easily reached by ferry from Port Vila. Taking only five minutes, the ferry runs 24 hours a day and is free to guests of the resort. With over 130 rooms, the resort offers apartments, penthouses and garden and beachfront huts. Take a look at the resort’s website for more details.