Vanuatu is a stunning South Pacific archipelago of 83 volcanic islands offering pristine beaches, world-class diving, active volcanoes, and authentic Melanesian culture. From the bustling capital Port Vila to the remote outer islands, Vanuatu combines adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Family activities
Engaging experiences for travellers of every age.
Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary
A short ferry ride to a small island with exceptional shallow snorkeling in a protected marine sanctuary. The world's only underwater post office adds novelty for kids — send a waterproof postcard from 3 meters underwater. Restaurant on-site for lunch.
Duration: Half day
Mele Cascades Waterfall
A manageable jungle trail to a stunning 35-meter waterfall with natural swimming pools at multiple levels. Rope swings and jumping rocks thrill older children. The path involves some stream crossings that young children find exciting. Bring water shoes.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Ekasup Cultural Village
Engaging cultural immersion with traditional dance, fire-making demonstrations, coconut husking, and explanation of kastom culture. Most children love the interactive demonstrations and the opportunity to try traditional food preparation. Photography welcome.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Blue Lagoon (Nanda Blue Hole)
Crystal-clear freshwater swimming hole with rope swings and an extraordinary vivid blue color. Calm, safe water suitable for confident young swimmers. The ride from Port Vila includes roadside coconut stops and coastal views.
Duration: 2-3 hours
Port Vila Markets
A sensory adventure through Vanuatu's main market with tropical fruits to taste, friendly vendors to meet, and the living pulse of local life. Children enjoy the vivid produce and can try fresh coconuts, nangai nuts, and tropical fruits.
Duration: 1-2 hours
Efate Ring Road Circuit by Car
A self-drive circuit of Efate Island past fishing villages, coconut plantations, beautiful beaches, and roadside stalls. Stops at Eton Beach for swimming and local cafes for lunch. An adventure that shows children how islanders really live.
Duration: Full day
Family-friendly hotels
Accommodation designed with families in mind.
Warwick Le Lagon Resort
The most family-complete resort in Vanuatu with dedicated kids club, three swimming pools including a shallow children's pool, multiple restaurants, and 5-minute shuttle to Port Vila. Set on the beautiful Erakor Lagoon with its own beach area.
Family features: Kids club (3-12 years), three pools with shallow area, family rooms, kids menus, babysitting available
Breakas Beach Resort
A long golden beach with calm water perfect for young children, spacious garden bungalows with room for families, and a children's pool. Just 5 km from Port Vila with shuttle service. More affordable than Warwick while offering excellent beach facilities.
Family features: Children's pool, family bungalows, beach with calm water, spacious grounds, restaurant with kids menu
Iririki Island Resort
Private island accessed by 24-hour free ferry, offering a child-friendly safe environment. Kids club, family rooms, multiple pools, and the novelty of island living just minutes from Port Vila. The casino is adult-only so families enjoy the resort facilities.
Family features: Kids club, family rooms, multiple pools, private island safety, ferry novelty for children
Nasama Resort
Affordable beachfront resort near the airport with a children's playground, pool, beach access, and family-oriented atmosphere. Simple bungalows with room for families. Excellent value option for families prioritizing beach access on a budget.
Family features: Playground, pool, beach access, family bungalows, near airport for early flights
Dining with kids
Eating out as a family.
Waterfront Bar & Grill has a relaxed atmosphere, kids menu, and harbor views that keep children entertained — excellent first night option
Port Vila Main Market is a great family food adventure — let children choose tropical fruits, coconuts, and try market snacks for a few dollars
Most mid-range resorts offer all-day dining with international menus that picky eaters will accept alongside local dishes
Dinner at 6-7 PM is perfectly normal and accepted at Port Vila restaurants — no need to eat late European-style
Fresh coconut water from roadside vendors ($1-2) is the perfect rehydrating snack for children between activities
Family travel tips
Practical advice for stress-free family trips.
Pack water shoes for children — coral, volcanic rock, and rocky river crossings make foot protection essential for most activities
Children's pharmacies stocks are limited in Vanuatu — bring adequate supplies of any specific medications plus basic first aid including antiseptic cream for coral cuts
Malaria prophylaxis is necessary if visiting northern islands (Santo, Pentecost) — consult a travel medicine doctor 4-6 weeks before departure
Bottled water only for children throughout the trip — tap water is not reliably safe even in Port Vila