Attractions in Espiritu Santo
- War Relics
Santo was a huge US military base during the second World War, with five airfields, four hospitals and more than 100,000 GIs stationed here. Local tours take in some of the many relics, including Quonset huts, air-strips, Million Dollar Point, and the wreck of an old B17 bomber.
- Diving
Some superb dive spots are found in Vanuatu, and WWII relics make the Vanuatu dive experience even more exciting. A highlight is the historic Million Dollar Point, where US forces dumped hundreds of tonnes of military equipment at the close of the war. Divers and snorkellers will find everything from bulldozers and trucks to canned food and bottles of Coca-Cola. Santo also boasts the world’s largest intact diveable WWII wreck – SS President Coolidge. A magnet for divers the world over, this 22,000 tonne luxury liner sank in 1942 after hitting US-laid mines, and is now a protected marine reserve.
- Snorkelling
When it’s time to cool off, join the locals for a snorkel at one of Santo’s stunning Blue Holes, where the crystal clear, deep blue water is fed by a freshwater spring. Or pack a picnic and head to Golden Beach, with its long stretch of golden sand. It’s an idyllic spot to swim or just relax beneath a tree.
- Guided Walks
Walks can also be arranged in the rugged south-west, which is home to Vanuatu’s highest mountains: Mt Tawaloala (1879m), Mt Kotamtam (1747), Mt Tawaloala (1742) and Santo Peak (1704m). These great peaks jut from a mountainous spine that runs almost the full length of the island’s west coast. Santo Peak, in particular, is known for its beautiful mossy cloud forest.
- Sports
Outdoor and sports enthusiasts are well catered for, with activities including tennis, petanque, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and kayaking, while golfers can enjoy the wonderful seaviews from the club’s ocean-side greens.
- Custom Villages
Vil Vil and Funafo custom villages are a great opportunity to view the cultural heritage of the local Ni-Vanuatu people. Tours include a welcome by the chief and a chance to see traditional song and dance, and to learn about community activities.
- Luganville Market
Located on Main Street near the Sarakata Bridge, the town’s colourful market sells fresh garden produce and handcrafts from all over Santo. Open Monday afternoon to Saturday evening.
- Millennium Cave
This massive cave deep in the jungle stretches 20m across and 50m high. Inside there are sparkling stalactites and stalagmites, freshwater pools and thousands of tiny bats and swallows, which nest high in the cave roof. Walking tours visit the cave and a medium level of fitness is required.
- Michener’s House
This colonial cottage on the beach near the village of Surunda was the home of famous author James A Michener, who was stationed at Santo during the war. Across the way is ‘Bloody Mary’s brothel’, of Tales of the South Pacific fame. The house can only be viewed from outside.
- Oyster Island
This tiny but idyllic palm-clad island shelters behind Mavea Island, and is renowned for its seafood restaurant. To summon the island’s small boat, beat on the gas cyclinder hanging in the tree.
- Loru Conservation Area
Loru park covers 220 hectares, with several nature walks, a bat cave and one of the last stretches of lowland forest on Santo’s east coast.
- Lonnoc Beach
Lonnoc’s long sandy stretch of beach is lined with palms, and has fine views of nearby Elephant Island.
- Port Orly
The village is built around a Catholic mission founded in 1887, and its beautiful stretch of beach is overhung with towering native hardwoods.
- Vatthe Conservation Area
Renowned for its pristine flora and fauna, this 45sq km reserve stretches from Big Bay to Mt Nimbo (449m), taking in the Jordan River and Vanuatu’s largest lowland forest. The main attractions are birdwatching and forest walks, including a 2-day trek up Mt Wimbo (449m) with superb views over Cumberland Peninsula. More than 80% of Vanuatu’s native land and freshwater birds are found in this area.
- Wusi & Linduri
These small villages in south-west Santo are the only places in Vanuatu where Lapita, the traditional pottery, is still produced by the women.
- Offshore Islands
The low-lying islands of Malo, Aore, Tutuba and Bokissa are largely covered in coconut palms and rainforest. There are excellent diving and snorkelling spots around all of the islands, and a dive centre at Bokissa Eco Island Resort. The islands can be reached by boat from Luganville.
- Access & Entry Fees
Most land in Vanuatu and areas within a lagoon or bay are owned by a village, family or individual. You must always ask permission and, in many cases, a small entry fee is required.
For
accommodation in Espiritu Santo, just visit our Espiritu Santo accommodation page to search Espiritu Santo accommodation listings, and make enquiries or bookings online. Our listings include motels and motor lodges, hotels, bed and breakfasts, camping grounds and holiday parks, resorts and lodges, backpackers and hostel accommodation.
For
things to see and do in Espiritu Santo, just visit our things to see and do in Espiritu Santo guide to search for Espiritu Santo listings, and make enquiries or bookings online. Our listings include tourist attractions, tours, and sightseeing in the area.