14 Best Blue Holes, Hot Springs & Swimming Spots in Vanuatu

One of the many spectacular "Blue Holes" in Santo, as you're about to discover, Riri Blue Hole is the perfect example of, well, perfection!

This stunning natural wonder offers a magical journey along the translucent Ri Ri River, where unbelievably crystal-clear waters transition from emerald green to brilliant azure blue as you paddle deeper into the jungle.

The adventure begins with a peaceful 45-minute paddle or outrigger canoe ride through mangrove-lined waterways that feel like a portal to another world. Unlike other blue holes across Santo, the water here maintains exceptional clarity throughout the journey, allowing you to see straight to the bottom despite its considerable depth.

Upon arrival, you'll find yourself surrounded by lush jungle with platforms for easy access, plus facilities including bathrooms and changing areas thoughtfully provided by locals. The blue hole itself features a swing rope for those seeking a bit of adventure, though the overall atmosphere encourages languid soaks, a little snorkelling if you have the gear, and a moment to embrace the beauty of this hidden grove.

Just up the road from Riri Blue Hole is Matevulu Blue Hole, which adds to the fun with waterslides and rope swings!

Here, crystal-clear waters plunge 18 m (59 ft) deep yet remain so transparent you can see the bottom.

The journey itself is part of the magic, where you can kayak through pristine jungle waterways from nearby resorts, watching the water transform from ocean blue to the ethereal turquoise that gives this blue hole its fame.

Upon arrival, you'll find a rustic welcome centre with an honesty box entry fee of around VT$1,000 (bring cash), plus basic facilities including restrooms and lounging areas. The star attraction is an enormous banyan tree on the water's edge, complete with rope swings and a metal staircase for easy access to the highest launching points.

The blue hole also features a thrilling water slide that requires a bucket of water for the smoothest ride down. Snorkelling reveals an underwater wonderland where tropical fish glide through shafts of sunlight piercing the deep blue depths, creating an almost otherworldly diving experience.

Vanuatu's most popular swimming spot (only because it's on the most-visited island), Blue Lagoon offers milky blue waters that can't help but lure you in.

This well-developed site offers excellent facilities for a memorable half or full-day adventure, complete with picnic tables, changing rooms and toilets nestled in beautiful gardens. The real highlight? Watching skilled local acrobats perform daring jumps using the rope swings set up around the lagoon. Or better yet, give it a go yourself!

Weekends bring a lively atmosphere as locals flock to this beloved spot, while weekdays offer a more tranquil experience for those seeking serenity. An entrance fee applies (cash only), and whilst food options on-site are limited (bring your own), the natural beauty more than compensates.

If you need transport, Yumi Tours runs the "Blue Lagoon Express" from Port Vila, while the Blue Lagoon is included on itineraries with most tour operators listed in the 10 Best Day Tours in Port Vila & Efate LINK#TTD125.

Throwing a waterfall swimming hole into the mix, Mele Cascades offers plenty of opportunities for a dip among its limestone-formed waterfalls.

Crystal-clear water flows over rocks sculpted smooth by layers of calcium deposits, creating mesmerising aqua pools deep in the jungle.

A winding path through tropical gardens leads you alongside the stream, with helpful ropes and poles, beautifully encrusted with calcium deposits, guiding you to the spectacular main waterfall.

At the base of this powerful cascade, watch rainbows sparkle in the mist whilst native swallows dart through the spray catching insects. The real treasure lies in the natural swimming pools below: warm, refreshing water teeming with friendly fish that nibble your toes and dance around you as you swim.

Despite the facilities being slightly rundown, this experience offers incredible value and surprisingly few crowds, making it feel like your own private paradise in the heart of Vanuatu's jungle.

Note that there are two entrance fees for this attraction: one for the bottom pools and another for the top.

Swap Vanuatu's refreshing pools for something more soothing at the Nasinu Hot Springs, also known as the Takara Hot Springs.

Picture yourself sinking into naturally heated pools surrounded by lush tropical gardens. That's exactly what awaits at Nasinu Hot Springs in Takara Village. This hidden gem combines wellness with natural beauty along the northern coast of Efate.

The springs feature several pools at different temperatures, so you can find your perfect soaking spot. The real treat, though, is the natural mud baths.

According to locals, a single dip will take years off your appearance, while the mineral-rich waters work wonders for skin conditions, joint pain and arthritis. Our own time there showed us just how rejuvenating a therapeutic mud bath followed by a warm soak can be.

Family-friendly and surrounded by lush forest, not to mention handy facilities like a café, mini golf and more, Eden on the River is a must-hit swimming spot for many.

This swimming experience on the Rentapao River takes place in crystal-clear natural pools, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and dense rainforest. The sprawling tropical paradise features acres of manicured gardens, meandering walking trails, and unique attractions like tropical minigolf and an adventure playground.

Suspension bridges provide elevated views during guided tours, while the on-site Eden Café ensures you're well-fuelled for your adventures. With no time restrictions, you can truly embrace island time as you explore the extensive grounds at your own pace.

For the most tranquil experience, we recommend visiting on weekdays when cruise ships aren't in port.

Either book your "Swim & Play" entry in advance, pay upon entry or you'll get access to the swimming hole included on guided tours like the "Bridges of Eden" suspension bridge tour or "Aelen Slow-Cooking Experience".

Further downstream from Eden on the River, Rarru Cascades is a locally-run swimming hole with jumping platforms to add to the fun.

Here you can enjoy the raw beauty of nature as you walk along the riverbank or unwind in one of the cabanas overlooking the crystal-clear waters. Take a refreshing swim in the cool river, shower under the cascading waterfall, or explore the mysterious hidden caves tucked behind the falls.

Adventure seekers will love the rope swings, jumping platforms and a thrilling five-metre wooden structure for the more daring visitors. If you simply want to float and soak up the serenity, complimentary tubes are provided for a leisurely drift down the river.

The friendly local guides share fascinating stories about the cascades' cultural significance and history, making this a meaningful way to support the community that manages this natural treasure.

Unlike the blue holes on Santo, the Blue Holes on Tanna are actually holes in the reef that offer amazing snorkelling when the conditions are right.

This natural wonder serves as a fish nursery, where vibrant marine life thrives among stunning coral wall formations that create an underwater gallery of colours and textures.

The crystal-clear waters offer excellent visibility for snorkellers of all skill levels, making it an ideal spot to observe tropical fish in their natural habitat. While the experience is best enjoyed at low tide for optimal water conditions, the site remains easily accessible during high tide, ensuring you can visit throughout the day.

For just VT$500 per person, your visit directly supports the local community. You can pay in cash on-site or conveniently settle your fee at White Grass Ocean Resort.

A little further north of Blue Hole #1, Blue Hole #2 is another opportunity to take a dip with the coral.

This underwater sanctuary showcases vibrant marine life, but timing is absolutely crucial for the best experience.

Visit during low tide, ideally in the morning when visibility reaches its peak, and the water remains calm. The challenging limestone walk requires proper reef shoes or aqua socks, and be sure to avoid stepping on delicate coral formations.

While the trek to reach this secluded spot can be challenging, the reward of snorkelling in this untouched marine environment makes every careful step worthwhile.

The afternoon and high tide periods significantly reduce visibility due to waves, so planning around optimal conditions is essential.

Again, there may be locals taking small entry fees to access their kastom land.

Most locals recommend Nanda Blue Hole (also known as Jackie's Blue Hole) as the best swimming spot in the area, and it's easy to see why once you experience stunning blue huey paradise.

The blue hole features jumping platforms on either side where you can leap into the pristine water or simply relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

There's an abundance of tropical fish that swim around the platforms, making it perfect for snorkelling amongst the beautiful limestone formations that line the hole's edges.

As a bonus, you can swim to the right through a shallow sandy area to access Thar Blue Hole, though, on the rare occasion that a custodian is present, you'll need to pay another entry fee.

The facility includes convenient change rooms, restrooms and a bar serving refreshing drinks, though no food.

While most visitors flock to the famous Nanda Blue Hole, Thar Blue Hole offers a more intimate swimming experience just a short swim or drive away.

This smaller, quieter blue hole provides pristine waters perfect for a refreshing dip without the crowds.

You can access Thar Blue Hole by swimming through the shallow sandy area from Nanda Blue Hole, making it an easy addition to your blue hole adventure. The facility features a jetty and deck area, though they're a bit weathered, adding to the rustic charm of this hidden gem.

Operated by a different custodian than its famous neighbour, Thar Blue Hole maintains its own character and peaceful atmosphere.

For those heading out to the hiking paradise of Malekula, Losinwei Cascades is your sublime swimming hole reward at the end of the trail.

This gorgeous half-day hike whisks you into the misty heart of central Malekula, where your local guide will lead you through forest trails that feel like stepping into a fairy tale. We're talking delicate orchids clinging to ancient trees and vibrant flowering irises that'll have you stopping every few metres for photos.

The star of the show is Losinwei Waterfall, where you can dive into the crystal-clear pool beneath the cascading waters. Feeling adventurous? Scramble up the rock face to discover hidden limestone pools that most visitors never even know exist.

After working up a sweat on the trail, you'll have plenty of time to laze about in this natural paradise before making the easy stroll back to Losinwei Beach.

Unlike the hikes Malekula is famous for, you don't need to pack like you're conquering Everest to experience Malekula's incredible trekking, as this walk proves that sometimes the best adventures come in small packages.

Only a lucky few make it to the picture-perfect Malo Blue Hole within Malo Island.

This spectacular blue hole sits in crystal-clear waters surrounded by lush tropical forest, creating perfect mirror reflections that will take your breath away.

The journey to reach this hidden gem is as memorable as the destination itself. A scenic 10-minute dinghy ride for yachties or a 20-minute kayak up a crystal-clear river reveals white sand carpeting the riverbed, whilst Lake Malo teems with stingrays and abundant birdlife.

To actually get to the blue hole itself, you have to venture to the southern end of Lake Malo to the stream that continues a little further to an azure oasis.

Unlike other blue holes in Vanuatu, there is a complete lack of commercial development; no facilities, no crowds, just pure natural beauty. The deep, refreshing waters offer the perfect swimming experience in complete solitude.

Discover one of Espiritu Santo's best-kept secrets at the Hog Harbour Blue Hole, also known locally as the Hala Blue Hole.

This stunning natural swimming lagoon offers something truly special amongst Santo's collection of blue holes: a direct connection to the ocean.

Located along the northern coastline, this hidden gem requires a bit of adventure to reach. You'll spot a small hut and seating area on the right side of the road, marking the entrance to a track that leads down to the pristine swimming lagoon below.

The crystal-clear waters provide excellent snorkelling opportunities, whilst the surrounding tropical vegetation creates an intimate, secluded atmosphere.

Unlike the more popular blue holes on the island, this spot remains relatively untouched by mass tourism.