Espiritu Santo Island, Vanuatu

A Pristine Island of Natural Wonders and WWII History

An aerial view of two red kayaks floating on a stunning, clear turquoise river surrounded by dense, lush green rainforest on Espiritu Santo Island, Vanuatu.

Overview

Espiritu Santo Island, Vanuatu Cruise Port

Espiritu Santo, the largest island in the nation of Vanuatu, offers a captivating blend of stunning natural beauty and fascinating World War II history. The island's main port, Luganville, serves as the gateway to a world of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and unique geological wonders. Espiritu Santo’s unusual name, Spanish for "the Holy Spirit," traces back to a 17th-century expedition, and its character was forever changed during WWII when it became a major Allied military base, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy of underwater relics.

Known affectionately as "Santo," the island is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers. It is famous for its vibrant blue holes, world-class diving sites including historic shipwrecks, and some of the South Pacific's most idyllic white-sand beaches. This remote island offers a more authentic and less-developed experience than many other cruise destinations, allowing visitors to truly connect with its lush environment and warm, welcoming local culture.

Top Things to Do in Espiritu Santo Island, Vanuatu

Dive or Snorkel the SS President Coolidge Wreck

For a truly unique experience, dive or snorkel the famous SS President Coolidge wreck. This luxury liner-turned-troopship sank during WWII and now lies in the deep blue waters off the coast, a spectacular artificial reef and one of the largest and most accessible shipwrecks for recreational diving in the world.

Tip: This is a must-do for certified divers. Many local operators offer guided dives for all experience levels, even for non-divers who want to explore from the surface.

Discover the Breathtaking Blue Holes

Espiritu Santo is renowned for its enchanting blue holes, natural spring-fed swimming holes with incredibly clear, vibrant blue water. Visit popular ones like the Nanda Blue Hole or Matevulu Blue Hole for a refreshing swim in a truly magical setting.

Tip: The color of the water is most intense in bright sunlight. Arrive in the late morning or early afternoon for the most spectacular views and photos.

Relax and Swim at Champagne Bay

Spend a perfect beach day at Champagne Bay, a beach famous for its sparkling white sand and crystal-clear waters. It gets its name from a natural phenomenon where the water fizzes like champagne at low tide as it passes through volcanic rock.

Tip: The bay is often a tender-only stop for cruise ships. Local vendors may be on hand to sell cold drinks and handicrafts.

Explore Million Dollar Point

Visit Million Dollar Point, a poignant and unusual WWII dive and snorkel site. At the end of the war, the U.S. military dumped millions of dollars worth of equipment, including jeeps and bulldozers, into the ocean. Today, it's a fascinating underwater museum where marine life thrives.

Tip: The site is easily accessible for snorkelers right from the beach. Even from the shore, you can often see some of the larger relics submerged in the clear water.

Wander the Markets of Luganville

Take a stroll through the town of Luganville, the second-largest city in Vanuatu. Visit the local markets to experience the island's vibrant culture, sample tropical fruits like fresh pineapple and mangoes, and browse a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Tip: The main street of Luganville is unusually wide, a legacy of its time as a WWII US base. It’s an interesting detail to look for as you explore.

Experience a Traditional Village Visit

For a deeper cultural immersion, consider a guided tour to a local village. These excursions offer a chance to connect with the Ni-Vanuatu people, learn about their traditional customs, and witness demonstrations of local life, including cooking or crafting techniques.

Tip: Booking a tour that includes a village visit is the best way to ensure your visit is respectful and provides genuine cultural insights.

Overview