
Noumea, New Caledonia
The capital of New Caledonia, Noumea is a little piece of France in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. Before World War II, New Caledonia was a little known and seldom-visited French possession known for its penal colony and its natural resources. (Nickel smelting still plays a major role in the island economy.) Today, travelers are drawn to New Caledonia for its scenic beauty. The island is famed for its white-sand beaches while its barrier reef is the world's second longest. The offshore waters also offer superb diving and snorkeling.
In 1774, James Cook thought the island's rugged hills resembled those of his native Scotland. Hence he christened the island New Caledonia. The island and its outlying groups became a French colony in 1854 and an overseas department of France in 1956.
Points of Interest
- Aquarium of Noumea
- Mt. Ouen Toro
- Baie de Citrons / Lemon Bay Beach
- Parc Forestier
- Promenade Vernier
- Anse Vata & Anse Vata Beach
- Duck Island (Ilot Canard) or Amedee
- Maritime Museum
Historical tour: Maritime Museum and WWII Museum
- Maritime Museum
Enjoy a scenic drive around the hills of Nouville peninsula and stop for 45 minutes at the museum and World War II museum.
Moderate Activity
AUD$69.95
Forrest Parc and Cagou Encounter
- Parc Forestier
Spot flora, fauna and feathered friends as you take a guided tour of this relaxing nature reserve featuring ponds, lakes, native shrubs and fascinating bird life, including the rare Cagou Bird.
Moderate Activity
AUD$79.95
Penal Colony History of New Caledonia
Discover the penal colony past of New Caledonia.
Moderate Activity
AUD$109.95
Best of Noumea
- Mt. Ouen Toro
Experience the history and beauty of Noumea on a half-day tour around town and into the surrounding countryside.
Moderate Activity
AUD$109.95
The Tchou Tchou Train
- Promenade Vernier
- Mt. Ouen Toro
Board the Tchou Tchou Train for a fun guided tour of Noumea.
Easy Activity
AUD$109.95
Tjibaou Cultural Centre
Discover the Pacific region's rich and varied indigenous culture at the Tjibaou Cultural Center, a complex of galleries and performance spaces that celebrate native life.
Easy Activity
AUD$109.95
Zodiac Ride & Duck Island Marine Reserve
- Duck Island (Ilot Canard) or Amedee
Discover the beautiful marine reserve of Duck Island.
Strenuous Activity
AUD$119.95
Dumbea River Kayak Adventure & Swim
Explore one of New Caledonia's most scenic river valleys on a half-day kayak trip along the tranquil Dumbea River.
Strenuous Activity
AUD$119.95
Forest Parc Segway Experience
- Parc Forestier
Take a guided Segway tour through the Parc Zoologique et Forestier, spotting interesting flora, fauna and feathered friends along the way including the rare Cagou Bird.
Strenuous Activity
AUD$159.95
Scenic Drive with Cheese & Wine Tasting
- Mt. Ouen Toro
Discover Noumea's historical landmarks before winding through the hills overlooking the beautiful bays and beaches of Noumea. Relax and enjoy French wine with cheese at one of Noumea's top restaurant.
Easy Activity, Includes snack
AUD$159.95
Amedee Island Marine Reserve
- Duck Island (Ilot Canard) or Amedee
Just a 45-minute ride away by luxury, high-speed ferry, a little paradise that is home to many turtles, is waiting for you: Amedee Lighthouse Island. Relax on the beautiful white-sand beach or join in the different activities Amedee has to offer.
Wheelchair Accessible, Moderate Activity, Includes meal
AUD$279.95