Hideaway Island

Port Vila


Just 100m or so offshore from Mele Beach, Hideaway Island isn't all that hidden but it's one of Vila's favourite spots for snorkelling, diving or just enjoying lunch at the island's resort (nonguests can access the marine park until 4pm). The free ferry putts out from in front of the Beach Bar regularly and once on the island you can snorkel in the marine sanctuary, join a dive tour and send a waterproof postcard from the world's only underwater post office.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Port Vila attractions

1. Secret Garden

0.92 MILES

The beautiful botanic gardens here help bring some of Vanuatu's island flora and its cultural uses to life. There's a kastom magic show (adult/child 1500…

2. Mele Cascades

1.07 MILES

This popular and photogenic swimming spot is 10km from Port Vila. A series of clear aquamarine pools terrace up the hillside, culminating in an impressive…

3. Tanna Coffee Factory

1.37 MILES

Watch the roaster at work and learn the story of Tanna coffee over a strong brew (350VT) at this welcoming coffee-roasting factory and cafe.

4. Summit

3.47 MILES

Take the winding road up to the Summit to visit these botanic gardens offering wonderful views over Mele Bay. There's a plant distillery producing…

6. Vila Outdoor Market

4.4 MILES

Vila’s colourful waterfront covered market (also known as the Mama's Market) is open round the clock from Monday morning to noon on Saturday with women…

7. Iririki Island

4.44 MILES

Iririki is the green, bungalow-laden island right across from Port Vila’s waterfront; it was closed following Cyclone Pam in 2015 but is expected to…

8. National Museum of Vanuatu

4.77 MILES

This excellent museum, in a soaring traditional building opposite the parliament, has a well-displayed collection of traditional artefacts such as tamtam …