Visit Port Vila to experience a rich South Pacific island culture, sample local products such as coffee and beer, or take part in outdoor adventures including zip lining or scuba diving.
Port Vila is Vanuatu’s capital city and is located on the island of Efate. Take a stroll around the center of the town to discover centuries-old buildings. Among these is the former French Residency in Independence Park, the pink building housing the Supreme Court and the Sacré Coeur Cathedral, which you’ll find in the French Quarter.
Learn about South Pacific history at the Vanuatu National Museum, which has a wide range of exhibits including tribal clothing and musical instruments. Find exotic paintings and sculptures at the Michoutouchkine & Pilioko Foundation Art Gallery in nearby Pango village.
Cultural attractions in and around Port Vila are plentiful, but the beautiful beaches and scenery are the biggest draws. The beach at Eton Village is a great place to relax. While you are here, visit the local school, church and children’s choir.
Catch the ferry across Vila Bay to Iririki Island, home to a resort. The ferry operates a 24-hour service and is free to resort guests. On the island, take in the views from the former British Residency. Ride a jet ski to Paradise Cove and spot dolphins.
Just a short drive from the city is Mele Bay. Head there for adventure activities and nature walks. Travel along a zip line suspended 262 feet (80 meters) above a canopy forest, walk through a rain forest to Mele Cascades, and explore the South Pacific’s largest tropical garden. If you have the time, join a scuba diving tour of the offshore shipwrecks and caves.
During your Port Vila stay, be sure to sample some local produce and check out the handmade arts and crafts. Shop for fruit and vegetables, flowers, souvenir shells and jewelry at Port Vila Market. Coffee and beer lovers will appreciate the chance to visit an Arabica coffee factory and Vanuatu’s pioneer microbrewery. Don’t miss out on a Melanesian Feast, which usually includes kava, the national drink.
Port Vila
Reviewed on Apr 23, 2024
Reviewed on May 13, 2024
Reviewed on Mar 18, 2024
Reviewed on Apr 16, 2024
Reviewed on Jul 9, 2023
Reviewed on Apr 27, 2024
Popular places to visit
Iririki Island
For almost a century this island was home to the British High Commissioner’s residence. Now, it’s a popular tourist resort famed for its luxury accommodation.
Port Vila Market
Peruse the stalls of this central market to pick up unique handcrafts and souvenirs or indulge in freshly baked French-style pastries and locally grown produce.
Pango Point
Explore the lovely green spaces of Pango Point and enjoy the snorkeling spots in Port Vila. Amble around this relaxing area's waterfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
University of the South Pacific
Enjoy the collegiate vibe at University of the South Pacific as part of your travels around Port Vila. Stroll along the beautiful beaches in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.
Parliament House
Parliament House is just one of the places to see in Port Vila, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Amble around this relaxing area's waterfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Independence Park
Explore the lovely green spaces of Independence Park and enjoy the snorkeling spots in Port Vila. Wander the waterfront and beautiful beaches in this relaxing area.
Things to do
Port Vila Full Day Tour - Experience the Real Vanuatu
4 Hour: Private Tropical Trio Excursion (with Hotel Pickup)
Explore Discover and Indulge Efate Tour
Adventure Quad Combo Excursion with Yumi Tours
Port Vila: Self-Guided Walking Tour with Audio Guide
Reviews of Port Vila
4/5 - Good
Port Vila is a beautiful place. Be careful of the bus drivers they are poor and will run off with your belongings if you don't keep them with you at all times. We rented a car in the end which turned out to be a lot better and could explore better.
4/5 - Good
I enjoyed the dining and shopping. It’s a very walkable town and locals are friendly. The buses are easy to use and cheaper than taxis.
5/5 - Excellent
The most friendly people I've met in a long time, everyone willing to stop what they are doing and help out!!! Everyone was always smiling and very giving, BEST HOLIDAY EVER!!!
5/5 - Excellent
Downtown Port Vila Traffic is a nightmare but in slow motion. Huge potholes everywhere especially a concern if you have a rental car. Once you get out of town, Ring road, the road that circle the island is well cared for. Tons of great places to eat.
5/5 - Excellent
Super beautiful and very clean.
3/5 - Okay
overpriced destination.