About Lifou Island

Lifou is the most populous of the six Loyalty Islands in the South Pacific, approximately one hundred kilometres east of New Caledonia. The island’s coastline is characterised by secluded beaches, vast caves and crystal clear water which is home to an array of colourful fish and coral reef. The locals are friendly and enjoy welcoming visitors too, making Lifou the perfect tropical island getaway. It is a place for pure relaxation, but the island really comes alive during its vibrant celebrations, most notably the Fern Festival in spring, the Sandalwood and Honey Festival in summer and the Vanilla Festival in autumn. Lifou’s port can be found in the main settlement of Wé on the east coast. From there, you can sail to the neighbouring Maré Island and New Caledonia with a few sailings available each week, so it’s a useful departure point for exploring some of the South Pacific’s most beautiful destinations.

About New Caledonia

New Caledonia is a dependent overseas territory of France in the southwest Pacific Ocean, comprising the main island of Grand Terre and a number of offshore archipelagos. Boasting one of the largest lagoons in the world, which reaches 24,000 square kilometres and classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and an enormous barrier reef fringing the shores of Grand Terre, New Caledonia is one of the best scuba diving locations on the planet. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of beautiful, palm-lined beaches to choose from and numerous hiking trails taking you across forested mountains and canyons. New Caledonia boasts some exquisite French cuisine, too, which is best enjoyed in a beachfront cafe whilst admiring the stunning coastal views. The island’s main ferry terminal is in the capital, Noumea towards the south, where a few sailings are provided to the Loyalty Islands, Mare Island and the Isle of Pines each week.