This pristine island has some of the most beautiful beaches and waters in the world. As the largest of the Loyalty Islands, Lifou’s capital, Easo is a great tourist hub. I spent days off in this spectacular port while working as an Acupuncturist-at-Sea. So, read on to learn about 6 awesome Lifou New Caledonia attractions.
Lifou Island is the largest of the Loyalty Islands in the archipelago of New Caledonia, an overseas territory of France. The island is about 81 km (50 mi) long and 16-24 km (10-15 mi) wide. Overall, it is a mostly flat island with no rivers or hills. However, it has dense jungles, terraced cliffs and abundant, lush vegetation. Easo is the capital and popular port-of-call. Just like Mare Island, Lifou is also a lifted coral atoll, surrounded by incredible coral reefs.
Related: A Magical New Caledonia Getaway at Mare Island
Top 6 Lifou New Caledonia Attractions
Snorkel or Swim at Pristine Beaches
There are numerous beaches on the island, including the Easo, Luecila and Plage de Luengoni. The northern coastline is more rugged with craggy seacliffs. In contrast, the south offers more relaxing setting with white sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
Cliffs of Jokin
Along the northern coastline are the craggy Cliffs of Jokin. This 120-foot tall precipice is made up of ancient, fossilized corals. Also, there are incredible, scenic walks along here and snorkeling as well.
Vanilla House Tour
A scenic drive takes visitors to the Vanilla House. This is a working farm with crops based on the first English missionaries. Furthermore, it offers educational tours about vanilla and how it is grown and harvested.
Chapelle Notre Dame de Lourdes
There is a walk with steps to this famous missionary chapel commemorating the first Catholic missionaries in 1858. Even more, perched atop the hill, panoramic views are astounding of Baie de Jinek to the west and Baie du Santal to the east and south.
Botanical Gardens
Lush tropical gardens abound here to see rare species of flora. Overall, I enjoyed exploring the colorful plant life and discovered plants in here that I never found anywhere else. For example, if anyone knows the name of the green and orange plant in above photo, let me know in comments below.
Oni Wael Animal Refuge
This refuge is a wonderful way to discover endemic birds and animals to Lifou. For example, coconut crabs and 22 bird species are endemic to New Caledonia.
Overall…
This slice of New Caledonia is a special place with some of the most beautiful beaches and intriguing species of plant life. Even more, it provides a rare chance to be in a world unspoiled and pristine for visitors to rejuvenate in its wonder.
Next: Isle de Pines, Caledonia – “The Closest Island to Paradise”
