New Caledonia is a perfect blend of Gallic and Pacific. You can combine trips to the elegant shopping districts and fine dining restaurants with sunbathing on pristine white sands. Perfect for honeymooners – who can resist the combination of French romance on a beautiful island paradise? – New Caledonia is also a prime destination to enjoy snorkelling and scuba diving. But anyone will enjoy the beaches and food, and if you're in search of solitude you can sail off to some of the remoter islands. Try learning a little bit of French before you go to enjoy this fantastic destination to its fullest potential.

Visit The New Caledonia Holiday Guide

Map of New Caledonia

New Caledonia Highlights

Experience cosmopolitan Noumea

Explore the stunning Isle of Pines

Learn at Tjibaou Cultural Centre

Visit Grand Terre's picturesque Hienghene Coast

Venture to Amedee

Enjoy the mystical experience of Loyalty Islands

Snorkel the world's largest lagoon

Enjoy Anse Vata's watersports

New Caledonia Holidays Guide

The cosmopolitan capital, Noumea, is the best place to start. Visit the Tjibaou Cultural Centre to discover more about the indigenous cultures of the islands, while the Zoological and Forest Park is a fine way to spend an afternoon. While foodies will sigh over the French restaurants, you can also head to Chinatown for authentic dim sum. There are numerous attractions outside of the capital, however. The Ile des Pins used to be a French penal colony, although it must be one of the world's most beautiful prisons. The pine trees atop the rocky outcrops were one of the few local sources of trees large enough to replace masts broken in storms – explore the caves to see if any sailors left treasure!

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Grande Terre is the largest island, and Noumea is close to the southern tip. Further north, you can visit Bourail. Although a farming town, various tourist excursions and activities can be arranged here, including hunting, horse riding, water sports and even weaving. Offshore, there are many small islands and atolls in the Loyalty Islands, although accommodation is mainly found on the largest three – Ouvea, Lifou and Mare. You can enjoy cruising around the others, or arrange a big game fishing trip. Or just sit back and drink in the perfect, laid-back atmosphere.

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Flights are available from Toyko, Australia, New Zealand and some other South Pacific destinations.

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