Luganville sits on the island of Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu's largest island, and grew from a major Allied base during World War II into the country's second-largest town. Reminders of that era remain close at hand, including Million Dollar Point, where surplus military equipment was pushed into the sea, and the wreck of the SS President Coolidge, one of the most accessible large shipwrecks for divers anywhere in the world.
Beyond the harbor, the island's interior reveals freshwater blue holes fed by underground springs, their turquoise pools framed by jungle and banyan roots. Champagne Beach, a short drive from town, offers powder-soft sand and calm, clear water. Ships typically dock at Luganville's deep-water wharf, placing the town's modest center within easy walking distance, while its natural attractions call for a short transfer into the surrounding countryside.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Luganville Vanuatu.
Snorkel Million Dollar Point
Fins and mask reveal bulldozers, trucks, and crates dumped by retreating US forces, now encrusted with coral just steps from shore. A short taxi ride from the wharf gets you there in about ten minutes.
Swim a Freshwater Blue Hole
Matevulu or Riri Blue Hole offer impossibly clear, cool turquoise pools ringed by banyan roots and jungle canopy, reached by a 20-30 minute drive plus a short jungle path. Rope swings and calm depths make it a refreshing counterpoint to the coast.
Relax at Champagne Beach
Fine white sand meets gentle, warm shallows perfect for floating or a leisurely swim, roughly a 45-minute transfer from town. Arrive early for the calmest water and quietest stretch of sand.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
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