Iririki Island

Iririki Island sits off the coast of Port Vila. A building on the island’s highest peak served as the British Residency until Vanuatu gained independence in 1980. Today, this 69 acre (28 hectare) island is a well-known luxury resort. Spend the night in an oceanfront cabin, go snorkeling and discover plentiful marine life, and watch cultural dance shows.

You can visit the island as either a resort guest or day visitor. There is an entry fee for day visitors. Getting around is easy as it’s possible to walk the island’s perimeter in about 20 minutes. Jump on a bike and explore the inland roads. Bikes are available free of charge to resort guests. Join a hill walk and climb the 179 steps to the residency. Have your camera ready for photo opportunities.

Watersport activities abound on the island. Resort guests can use snorkeling gear and kayaks for free. Join a jet-ski tour to nearby Paradise Cove and keep an eye out for dolphins. Out of the water, enjoy the picnic tables, volley ball courts and loungers on the beach. Alternatively, relax with a massage and other therapeutic treatments.

Choose from four different restaurants that combine South Pacific ingredients with international flavours. Among these is Michener’s Restaurant, which has one of Port Vila’s most idyllic settings. The restaurant is named after Pulitzer Prize-winning author James A. Michener. Be part of a Melanesian feast, which is an evening of local food, accompanied by a traditional dance performance.

Younger visitors will enjoy the swimming pools and games room, complete with table tennis and a foosball table. There is also a kids’ club that organizes nature walks, painting activities and games for 3-12 year olds.

Iririki Island is under five minutes by boat from Port Vila. A 24-hour ferry connects the island to the mainland. This service is free to guests. The resort has more than 130 rooms. Choose from garden and beachfront huts, apartments and penthouses. Check the island’s official website for room rates.