This unique island of New Caledonia is an uplifted coral atoll. Adorned by turquoise beaches for snorkeling, intriguing caves and cliffs, this island is an incredible getaway. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I spent days off here to enjoy its crystal-clear waters and hikes. So, read on to learn about Mare Island travel highlights.
Mare Island is the southernmost of New Caledonia’s 4 Loyalty Islands. It’s an uplifted coral atoll with craggy cliffs on the southern shores. In the center of the island is an ancient lagoon with several caves and sinkholes. The natives are the Kanak and Tavu’avua peoples. Like Isle de Pines, Mare also has some pine trees, as fossils left from the Triassic Period. And there are palm trees along with the pine on this captivating island.
Related: Enchanting Lifou, Caledonia Attractions
Mare Island Travel Highlights
Snorkel at Eni or Yedjele Beach
There are numerous places to swim and snorkel the incredible coral reef surrounding this lovely island. The waters are unbelievably pristine and clear, so don’t miss it while you are here. Eni and Yedjele Beach are the most popular beaches with colorful fish and even sea turtles. Also, Yedjele Beach is known for its unique landscapes with pure white sands, along with a backdrop of both pine and palm trees.
Natural Aquarium
Because this island is an uplifted coral atoll, it is honeycombed with mysterious coral caves. And this magical sanctuary is a small and shallow lagoon connected to the sea by a cave. Since it’s near the ocean, the fish and corals live in the lagoon. Also, the lagoon is surrounded by a patch of thick brush and forest. So, it feels all tucked away and intimate. Visitors do swim in it. I felt like it was too imposing and just observed its splendid turquoise colors and serenity.
La Roche (The Rock)
This gigantic limestone rock covered in vegetation is locally known as Titi. Visitors can climb the rock and even have a local guide for the excursion.
Explore the Caves and Caverns
Once again, because this island is an uplifted coral atoll, it provides ancient coral caves to explore. A popular cave is the Trou de Bone, a deep rock cavity, with a lush tropical garden and a pool. Also, the Pentheon cave is another intriguing limestone cave that is an attraction.
Shabadran Terraces
This unique rock formation is made out of coral into beautiful seaside terraces. It is a 2-3-hour hike to reach its white sandy beaches, but worth it for the incredible views. I did not make it here but would definitely see this if I return to the island.
Warrior’s Leap
The legend goes that a warrior being chased by enemies, leaped across a huge gap about 30 metres high and 7 metres wide. The Warrior escaped with the enemies at the bottom of the sea.
Avocado or Sea Festivals
In May the Avocado festival honors the farmers in Nece village. Visitors can arrange a homestay with the locals and experience this island and local’s life. As a complement the Sea Festival in November celebrates the ocean and all the seafood.
Overall, Mare Island Travel Highlights
Mare Island, similar to Isle de Pines, is one of the most unique places that I’ve ever explored. The eerie, exotic rugged rocks, caves and landscapes alongside pine and palm trees with luxurious turquoise waters is a benevolent sanctuary for the soul. And, also, the locals are wonderful offering authentic homestays for one-of-a-kind getaway.
