Île aux Canards is a cute postcard-perfect islet sitting five minutes by taxi boat off Anse Vata. It's all here, including an underwater snorkelling path, rental gear, a restaurant, and a stunning beach with loungers, hammocks, beach umbrellas and even VIP Lounges. Head to the water-taxi booth about halfway along Anse Vata beach (return trip 1200 CPF).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Noumea attractions

1. Aquarium des Lagons

0.72 MILES

This aquarium is stunning. Species found in New Caledonian waters – including nautilus, sea snakes, stone fish, turtles, sharks and stingrays – have…

2. Anse Vata

0.79 MILES

Orientated east–west, this popular beach is a hotspot for visitors to Noumea, with hotels, restaurants, shopping and other attractions. Only 10 minutes…

3. Baie des Citrons

0.97 MILES

Orientated north–south and less than 10 minutes from the city centre, trendy Baie des Citrons attracts locals and visitors alike. The beach is great for…

4. Ouen Toro

1.33 MILES

A sealed road winds up 132m Ouen Toro from just past Anse Vata beach. Two WWII guns still stand sentinel at the summit from where there are excellent…

5. Mwâ Ka

2.56 MILES

Mwâ Ka is erected in a landscaped square opposite Musée de Nouvelle-Calédonie. The 12m totem pole is topped by a grande case (chief’s hut), complete with…

6. Musée de Nouvelle-Calédonie

2.58 MILES

The Musée de Nouvelle-Calédonie provides an excellent introduction to traditional Kanak and regional Pacific culture. Local exhibits are displayed on the…

7. Le Marché

2.59 MILES

This colourful multi-hexagonal-shaped market is beside the marina at Port Moselle. Fishermen unload their catch; trucks offload fruit, vegetables and…

8. Cathédrale St Joseph

2.82 MILES

The cathedral was built in 1888 by convict labour and is one of Noumea’s landmarks. It has beautiful stained-glass windows and an elaborately carved…