7 Best Historical Sites in Vanuatu

One of Vanuatu's most popular dive sites also happens to be a fascinating insight into the South Pacific's WW2 past.

The SS President Coolidge was a luxury liner turned war vessel that sank off the coast of Luganville when it hit a friendly mine.

This 200 m (656 ft)-long luxury liner turned warship offers an extraordinary underwater adventure, with depths ranging from 20 to 70 m, making it accessible to certified divers of all skill levels.

The shipwreck houses remarkable artefacts, including military jeeps, cannons, medical supplies and the famous Lady Statue at 40 m depth. If you descend 70 m, you can get your photo taken with the ship's name.

Marine life thrives throughout the artificial reef, with reef fish, barracuda, sea turtles and a resident moray eel, Nessie, calling this historic vessel home.

Not too far from the SS President Coolidge, Million Dollar Point provides a much more accessible WW2 site that reef-walkers, snorkellers and scuba divers can enjoy.

This isn't just a beach; it's an underwater museum born from one of World War Two's most spiteful decisions.

In 1945, when French colonial authorities refused to buy surplus American military equipment at six cents on the dollar (thinking they'd get it for free), the Americans responded with remarkable pettiness. For two solid days, they dumped millions of dollars' worth of trucks, bulldozers, tractors, jeeps and even Coca-Cola bottles into the sea near Luganville.

Today, Million Dollar Point offers visitors the extraordinary sight of this underwater military graveyard just metres from shore. You can explore through snorkelling, scuba diving or even reef walking at low tide, discovering everything from bulldozers to bottles scattered across the ocean floor and rocky coastline.

Lining the shores of western Efate, as well as the offshore islands of Artok and Lelepa, Chief Roi Mata's Domain is where archaeologists have been able to line up oral stories with burial sites.

When UNESCO recognised Chief Roi Mata's Domain as having "Outstanding Universal Value" in July 2008, Vanuatu gained its very first World Heritage site.

You'll discover pristine beaches stretching along the coastline, a harbour so breathtaking it'll leave you speechless, and those iconic views of the distinctive hat-shaped Artok Island that make this place truly unforgettable.

While the domain technically encompasses a vast stretch of western Efate's shoreline plus Artok/Eretoka/Hat Island and Lelepa Island, we recommend heading to the Manga'asi shoreline for the most accessible experience. You'll find clear roadside signage and a convenient parking area that makes your visit hassle-free.

The story goes that Chief Roi Mata was a powerful 17th-century leader whose legend tells of bringing peace amongst the islands of Efate. When he died on Lelepa Island, he was buried alongside his family and entourage (believed to have been a live burial) in a mass grave on Artok Island.

If you're keen to dive deeper into this incredible history, Atmosphere Tours & Transfers runs the "Chief Roi Mata Domain & Artok Island Tour".

Not a "historical site" per se, but the collection of artefacts from across Vanuatu's islands makes the Vanuatu Cultural Centre, also known as the National Museum, a must for anyone wanting to dive into the archipelago's history.

Housed in a stunning traditional building right across from the parliament, the museum beautifully displays its collection of traditional artefacts, including tamtam (slit drums), outrigger canoes, ceremonial headdresses, shell jewellery and examples of Lapita and Wusi pottery.

Don't miss the fascinating photographic display documenting the unearthing of Chief Roi Mata's burial site, which offers incredible insights into this UNESCO World Heritage archaeological discovery. The one-hour guided tours are worth considering, bringing the cultural heritage to life with traditional instrument demonstrations and sand drawing presentations.

Located right in the entrance hall, the museum shop is a treasure trove with an excellent selection of exclusive gifts, carved souvenirs, locally designed t-shirts, posters and books. All proceeds support the museum's ongoing collection development.

We've found that this museum serves as the perfect bridge between past and present, and is a good place to visit and learn early in your trip, helping you understand and appreciate cultural traditions while sparking curiosity.

The Vanuatu Cultural Centre is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday, with a small entry fee.

In the same vein as the point above, a look at some tangible relics from the past is possible at the ever-expanding South Pacific WWII Museum in Luganville.

Your visit kicks off with the museum's significant location, where tranquil coconut plantations were once transformed into Base Button, the largest military base in the South Pacific during World War II.

This small museum preserves the legacy of over 500,000 service members who passed through Vanuatu during the war, showcasing an extensive collection of World War II memorabilia and artefacts.

Founded by passionate locals, the museum honours the birthplace of "Tales of the South Pacific" and the legendary heroism of aviators, soldiers and sailors. Plans are underway to create a larger, world-class facility that will preserve this remarkable history for future generations of Ni-Vanuatu and visitors worldwide.

A pretty cool historical site if you have wised up on your WW2 history, Turtle Bay Airfield now hides among the lush greenery of east Santo.

Following its remarkable 20-day construction in July 1942, this strategic base grew to become the largest Allied airfield in the Pacific after Pearl Harbor, playing a crucial role in the war effort.

Immortalised in James Michener's prize-winning novel 'Tales of the South Pacific' and later adapted into the beloved Rodgers and Hammerstein musical 'South Pacific', this historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into the South Pacific Theatre.

While nature has largely reclaimed the runway, you can still make out its outline from aerial views and ground-level exploration.

The road leading south to Riri Blue Holes marks the southern edge of the old runway, whilst a cleared fence line running parallel marks its northern boundary.

Another museum-like attraction for those of you only visiting the main island, Efate, but don't want to miss out on the WW2 action, the World War II Memorabilia Mini-Museum is an unofficial collection of artefacts that's worth a quick peruse.

This heartfelt tribute to Vanuatu's WWII history feels more like visiting a passionate friend than a traditional museum.

This intimate one-room collection showcases evocative wartime memorabilia lovingly curated by Mark, who continues his grandfather's legacy with genuine enthusiasm and deep knowledge.

You'll discover fascinating artefacts and hear captivating stories about how the collection began and continues to grow today. The museum's charm lies in its personal touch; Mark's passion for preserving his country's history is palpable, and his quirky additions make each visit unique.

Whether you're circumnavigating Efate or staying in the Havannah area, this grassroots museum offers an interesting glimpse into Vanuatu's wartime past.