Iles des Pins – Isle of Pines
A day trip to New Caledonia’s “Iles des Pins” is worth the trip although a 2 to 3 day stay would be that much better. It is only a 20 minute flight from New Caledonia’s regional Magenta Airport on Air Caledonie. We left early in the morning so that we could enjoy a full day on this unique island.
Here are some great things to do while on the Isle of Pines:
Kanumera Bay – A protected bay with a spectacular white sand beach wrapping around it and its own unique island and small rock formations.
St. Maurice Bay – The location of some interesting Melanesian Totems and a memorial to the local people who died in World War II.
Vao Village – The only village on the island. It is not even a noticeable village as it has one bank and a Church. Not much else to this village but it is a quaint place to stop.
Oro Natural Pool – A short 10 minute walk from Le Meridien Hotel. This natural pool is a protected cove of water that is filled up as the tides come in. There are plenty of fish and colourful coral to see as you snorkel along this white sand beach.
Here are some places to stay on “Iles des Pins”:
Hotel Kou Bugny – 3 stars – Wifi Internet in the hotel lobby – Bungalows and Hotel across a narrow street from the beach. Choose from one of 26 rooms, 6 bungalows (sleep 2) or 6 bungalows with lofts (sleep 6). The hotel restaurant is across the street on the longest beach of the island.
Oure Hotel – 4 stars – This hotel is spread out across a few acres of land. Stay in one of 14 Garden Bungalows or in one of 3 Beach front bungalows. This hotel is on one of the most beautiful white sand beaches with a lagoon of its own. A beautiful lagoon to kayak around.
Hotel Kodjeue – 2 stars – Can ask to use front desk internet computer – This budget hotel has plenty of amenities. A large dining area and the only location on the island where Dive trips can be arranged. On Wednesdays enjoy an meal cooked in an underground oven. Choose from 15 Standard Rooms, 10 Garden or 12 Beach Bungalows. The beach bungalows are only a few feet away from the water. A beautiful viewpoint from the outdoor deck.
Le Meridien – 5 stars – Internet in Restaurant Area – This deluxe resort is accessed by a bridge to a private island. Choose from 10 Deluxe Rooms, 25 Deluxe Bungalow Suites or 4 Cliff top Bungalows with their own stairs to the beach. This Resort has a great Spa, restaurant, beach and pool area with some great hiking trails to more beaches.