20 Best Things to Do in Vanuatu with Kids

A vibrant swimming spot, Blue Lagoon offers families an easy and fun place to cool off along Efate's coastline.

This well-developed natural swimming spot offers excellent facilities for a memorable adventure, complete with picnic tables, changing rooms and toilets nestled in beautiful gardens. The lagoon itself is a unique mix of fresh and salt water, fed by a natural spring located one kilometre back in the bush.

What many don't realise is that three local businesses share access to this beautiful location - Blue Lagoon, Eton Natural Pool and Waikatom - all operating daily from 7 am to 4:30 pm. The first two are the most developed, with decking areas and rope swings to maximise the fun. While there's no lifeguard on duty, security staff are present to ensure visitor safety and help with the rope swing.

The atmosphere remains consistently welcoming throughout the week, with locals and visitors alike enjoying the refreshing waters. An entrance fee applies, with children under five entering free.

Rather than limited food options, visitors can enjoy an extensive selection at the on-site snack shop and restaurant, offering everything from light snacks and sandwiches to full meals, plus cold drinks and beverages.

Get ready for a high-energy rainforest experience at Vanuatu Jungle Zipline that combines sweeping island views with an unforgettable aerial challenge.

The complex at what's known as The Summit features six lines totalling 1.3 km (0.8 mi) that send you soaring through the rainforest canopy, platform to platform across dramatic canyons and ravines. Lines range from 20 m (65 ft) to the longest at 300 m (984 ft), offering an escalating thrill as you progress through the course.

For the truly fearless, the "Vanuatu Canyon Swing" launches you from 70 m (230 ft) above ground at speeds reaching 120 kph (75 mph) with pristine Mele Bay stretching below like a gleaming jewel.

The crown jewel is the "Vanuatu Skybridge", the longest suspension bridge in the Southern Hemisphere at 120 m (394 ft) long, offering unparalleled 360-degree views down the canyon to Mele Bay and the stunning azure reef below.

And for those in your group who prefer their feet to remain on the ground, the Summit Gardens provides a peaceful contrast with meandering pathways, tropical flowers, fish ponds and picnic areas, included free with all activity tickets.

Refreshments are available to purchase on-site at their fully solar-powered operation. You can refill your waterbottles from the rainwater tanks, and they have a recycling program in place. Nice!

For a slower, more scenic way to take in the island's landscapes, this Club Hippique horseback experience offers a relaxed connection with nature.

Set on a beachfront property and with 30 years of experience, Club Hippique offers riders of all skill levels adventures ranging from 45-minute introductory rides to full-day discovery tours through a lush coconut plantation and rainforest terrain.

The signature experience is horseback swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Etmat Bay, where every tour concludes with 15 minutes of bareback riding in the water with your horse. You might spot turtles and dugongs in the bay if you're lucky during certain seasons.

The two-hour tour is the most popular, though visitors can choose from several ride durations, including the romantic sunset ride complete with refreshments, or extend to half-day and full-day adventures.

Each experience showcases Efate's diverse landscapes from beach to rainforest, with the unique 45-minute "Quick Time" option perfect for those wanting a taste of both bush trails and ocean swimming. Refreshments including soft drinks, beer, wine and snacks are available, with hot food options during cruise ship days.

Santo's most iconic beach, Champagne Beach offers a glorious sandy bay that is beloved by many.

The beach features everything you could hope for: a stunning horseshoe-shaped bay with powdery white sand and crystal-clear blue waters.

While it was once busy with cruise ship passengers that used to anchor nearby, this is no longer the case, making it a more peaceful destination where you can consistently appreciate its natural beauty without the crowds.

The beach is open seven days a week from 7 am until 6 pm, offering excellent facilities including changing rooms, showers, toilets and shade areas. Joylitas Restaurant serves up everything from fish and chips to pizza, while there's also a bar on-site, though it typically only opens during public holidays and special occasions.

For those looking to explore the waters, snorkel gear is available for hire, and the swimming areas are safe throughout the bay.

The usual entry fees apply, with different rates for various vehicle types. Camping is also permitted - simply inquire at the entrance for details.

A gentle water-based outing with Vanuatu Ecotours offers families a peaceful way to explore Efate's lush inland scenery.

Paddle gently down the freshwater Rentapao River, surrounded by tropical vegetation and glimpses of local village life.

The full-day kayaking experience includes a visit to Rarru Cascades, offering a perfect combination of paddling and experiencing one of Efate's best water-based attractions nearby. But even the half-day (1 hr 30 mins) tour provides opportunities to immerse yourself in the river's gentle tropical environment while enjoying the serenity of being on the water.

At the end of your paddle, cool off with a refreshing river swim and enjoy some playful fun on the Tarzan rope swing. After working up an appetite, you'll relax riverside with a fresh tropical fruit platter before heading back to your accommodation.

Come prepared with reef shoes, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and your own drink bottles for the adventure. With knowledgeable local guides prioritising safety through proper briefings and equipment, these kayaking tours offer a refreshing way to experience a side of Efate that few travellers get to experience.

The Ni-Vanuatu culture is extremely accessible and holds many fascinating traditions, many of which you can witness at Leweton Cultural Village.

This remarkable faux-village has been constructed using only traditional methods; no nails or modern tools in sight, to give you an example of authentic Ni-Vanuatu architecture.

You'll witness captivating traditional dancing, participate in a genuine kava ceremony with the opportunity to taste freshly squeezed kava, and be mesmerised by the famous water music performed by talented ladies from the Banks Islands.

The experience features an authentic fire-making demonstration where your hosts, wearing vibrant traditional costumes, showcase traditional cooking methods over open flames. You'll have the chance to taste fire-cooked foods like roasted banana, bringing you closer to the authentic flavours of island life.

Throughout your visit, you'll be comfortably seated under the shade of traditionally thatched roofs while singing and cultural performances bring the distinct culture of the outer northern islands to Santo.

Booking in advance is essential as the village needs time to prepare for guests, with a minimum of two people required for the experience. You can find them through their Facebook page to arrange your cultural immersion.

For those keen to get out on the open ocean, this charter offers a rewarding mix of action and island scenery.

Top Gun Sport Fishing offers premium fishing charters around Efate with options for four, six, eight or 10-hour adventures targeting pelagic species at various Fish Aggregating Devices.

Whether you're after the prized dogtooth tuna and giant trevally around the island's numerous reefs and underwater structures, or fancy deep dropping and jigging for the famous red ruby snapper, their experienced Maverick (hence the name!) caters to everyone from seasoned anglers to complete beginners.

All trips include transportation within Port Vila, complete fishing gear, tackle and bait, plus snorkelling equipment, ice, water and light meals. The fully licensed operation accommodates up to five passengers and offers customised trips, overnight adventures, and various fishing techniques, including live bait trolling, downrigger fishing, jigging and casting.

You'll love how quick and easy it is to reach one of Efate's most stunning offshore islands with Pele Island Beach and Snorkelling Tours, just a short boat ride from the mainland and you're there.

This small-group experience includes boat transfers from the mainland wharf, snorkelling gear and guided fish feeding just 300 m (330 yards) offshore where colourful coral fish dart between stunning coral formations.

After working up an appetite underwater, you'll be treated to a hearty barbecue lunch featuring locally-sourced beef, chicken and fresh fish (when available), accompanied by rice, bread and tropical fruits. The afternoon continues with a guided village walk, offering insights into local island life and traditional customs.

Operating daily with complete snorkelling equipment provided (masks, fins and snorkels), this tour is one of the best ways to experience Pele Island in just one day. The experience runs as a full-day adventure, typically booked through local tour operators or resort partnerships - so ask at your accommodation reception.

Another fantastic cultural experience, Santo Fire Walks gives a fascinating glimpse into life in Pentecost.

Your engaging host Chief Bule serves as an excellent master of ceremonies, keeping audiences captivated with fascinating facts while being open to questions throughout the experience.

The experience begins with a traditional welcome dance before moving into the nakamal for weaving and cooking demonstrations, where you'll sample food cooked in a bamboo. You'll then experience freshly squeezed kava tasting, watch the art of sand drawing and witness a powerful dance where a young boy must show his courage as he relies on nothing but plants and vines to carry his weight.

The spectacular finale features the actual firewalk on scorching hot rocks with no foot protection whatsoever, including dancing on the heated stones.

Energetic dances accompanied by local drums and ankle-rattling navaranke nuts create an unforgettable atmosphere, concluding with refreshing local treats.

Roawia Turtle & Snorkelling Tours is an easy and safe way to introduce kids to marine life, bringing them face to face with some of the island’s most gentle ocean creatures.

The guides ensure you don't miss any of the incredible marine life, including sea turtles, vibrant fish, giant clams and thriving coral gardens.

Choose from multiple tour options, with the signature turtle tour including transport and lunch, or opt for combination tours that take you to various snorkelling spots around Eretoka (Hat/Artok) and Lelepa Islands. While their base at Mangaliliu is a snorkelling attraction in itself, going the extra mile with Roawia Turtle & Snorkelling Tours is something you won't regret.

Their base features proper changing rooms and gear storage, plus an on-site restaurant serving meals from 8 am to 2:30 pm daily. All guided tours require advance booking and operate during the same hours as the restaurant.

A blue hole with a difference, the Riri Blue Hole is best visited in an outrigger canoe.

The Riri River’s 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 20-minute outrigger canoe ride through mangrove-lined waterways that feel like a portal to another world. For 1,500 VT per person (which includes entry fee to the blue hole), you can canoe for a very reasonable fee, accommodating up to five people per outrigger canoe. Guides wait by the bridge, and this is, in our humble opinion, the recommended way to get there, as this is what makes the Riri Blue Hole so special.

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.

Speaking of snorkel adventures, a site that's highly accessible but eerily intriguing, Million Dollar Point is a scattering of World War Two memorabilia along the south coast of Santo.

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 from the remains of the concrete wharf (which was blown up with dynamite after offloading the equipment), discovering everything from bulldozers to old wheels scattered across the ocean floor. Scuba diving with local operators reveals even more of the equipment pile beneath the surface.

Located just a five-minute drive from Luganville, the site also offers a pleasant sandy beach with typically calm and clear waters.

Create great family memories at Walarano and Wala Island with Nawori Sea View Bungalows.

The signature "Wala Day Tour", starts with a cultural journey with the Small Nambas tribe, before you are taken across to Wala Island, visiting ancient sites and experiencing traditional life firsthand. You'll get an excellent introduction to the nasara concept, sites of ancient villages, and explore four different namaki (ceremonial areas) before enjoying traditional kava drinking. Plus, don't forget your snorkelling gear for the colourful underwater spots.

Back on the mainland, the Cannibal Site involves just a one-hour walk to reach historical sites where you'll discover the cultural context behind cannibalism as a form of sentencing, visit unique nasara stones and see preserved human remains at ancient burial sites.

Tours depart from Nawori Sea View Bungalows, but transfers from Lakatoro can be arranged for an additional fee.

We're big fans of full-day water adventures, and this Moso Island Day Tours experience gives families the perfect chance to discover one of Efate's hidden gems.

Your eight-hour journey begins with a scenic boat ride to hidden caves and dramatic coastal landscapes on the eastern side of Moso Island, where you'll enjoy three separate snorkelling sessions in waters teeming with fish, coral and even a dedicated giant clam site.

Along the way, your guide will slowly follow the coast where sea turtles nest to help you spot them gliding in the water (we lost count after 40 turtles on our last tour - no joke!)

The experience includes a relaxing lunch break on a secluded private beach, where you can feed local drum fish and soak up the island atmosphere.

All snorkelling equipment, refreshments, lunch and transfers are provided, making this an effortless way to discover one of the most captivating destinations from Vanuatu's main island.

Another Maskelyne marvel, Penamun Clam Snorkelling Tour makes seeing their magnificent creatures easy with their shore-side sanctuary, perfect for families who want to explore marine life in a safe, accessible environment.

This unique conservation project showcases four different species of tridacna clams, including the impressive Tridacna Maxima and Tridacna Squamosa, in a shallow-water habitat that provides easy access for snorkellers remaining on the surface.

The 30-minute snorkelling experience (though you're welcome to stay longer) takes place just off the shores of Bonvilau Village beach. With that, this experience combines marine conservation with community tourism, as local guide John shares his knowledge about these remarkable creatures.

The entrance fee includes refreshing local fruit and drinks, making it excellent value for money. There are options to add transport, a salusalu (neck garland) and even a stringband to the package.

Operating Monday to Saturday, visitors need to bring their own snorkelling gear to explore this underwater garden.

If you’re after something a little different on the water, this high-speed adventure puts you in the driver’s seat.

Experience the thrill of driving your own high-speed watercraft with U-Power Zego Sea Adventures around stunning Port Vila Harbour.

These novel tours offer both 30-minute and 60-minute options, with the longer adventure taking you beyond the harbour to Paradise Cove for swimming and snorkelling opportunities.

The easy-to-drive automatic watercraft can accommodate up to two people (maximum combined weight of 150 kg/330 lbs) and is safe for children as young as two years old. During the 60-minute tour, you'll cruise past Iririki and Ifira islands while keeping an eye out for dolphins, turtles and even dugongs, with coral reefs visible on the far side of the harbour.

Tours include safety briefings and driving tips, with experienced guides leading you along specific routes around the bay. Snorkelling gear is available for hire, and the company welcomes groups of all sizes, from single couples to larger parties.

A relaxed harbour cruise with Vanuatu Watersports Port Vila offers families an easy way to discover marine life together, even for those who prefer to stay dry.

This unique semi-submersible glass-bottom boat operates exclusively in Port Vila Harbour, transforming marine exploration into an accessible underwater adventure. Sit comfortably in an enclosed viewing room beneath the water's surface, peering through four underwater windows as vibrant tropical fish and coral reefs glide past like you're inside a living aquarium.

The hour-long journey cruises around Port Vila Harbour, taking you to the back of Iririki Island, where you'll spend 15 minutes feeding fish, which is always a highlight that guarantees close encounters with abundant marine life. While you're certain to see plenty of tropical fish and growing coral formations, you might even spot a turtle if you're lucky.

We love how accessible this experience is. It's perfect for non-swimmers, children, grandparents or anyone who simply prefers staying dry while discovering the ocean's treasures.

Tucked within a peaceful rainforest setting, Eden on the River offers a fun mix of light adventure and nature for all ages.

Just 20 minutes from Port Vila and open daily from 9 am to 4:30 pm, you'll find yourself at this tropical oasis – and trust us, this is one adventure you won't want to miss.

The main attraction is their "Bridges of Eden" suspension bridge tour, which takes visitors on a journey through lush jungle before crossing three suspended bridges a few metres above gentle cascades.

The experience begins with a nature walk through the forest, where knowledgeable guides share insights about native trees and plants used in traditional Vanuatu culture. Visitors are fitted with safety harnesses before descending to the river level, where trained guides are positioned at each station to ensure safety throughout the crossing.

The highlights, of course, are the three suspended bridges with a small zipline at the final bridge. The tour duration varies from thirty minutes to an hour, depending on how quickly guests move across the bridges, with no time restrictions, allowing you to take your time and enjoy the experience.

After completing the bridge walk, guests can enjoy swimming in the natural river pools below. The tour concludes with a complimentary fruit tasting featuring a small platter of tropical fruits grown on the property, which is also a working farm.

If that wasn't enough, there's also mini golf and a playground for families with children. For guests seeking accommodation, Eden on the River offers self-contained houses that include complimentary access to all activities when staying overnight.

A short journey from the mainland gives families the chance to combine light adventure with cultural discovery on a peaceful offshore island with Nguna Island Adventures.

Choose between a spectacular hike to Nguna's famed volcanic crater or an immersive village tour where you'll discover the island's rich history and visit the Chief's traditional nakamal.

Both tours include a delicious lunch and full access to the Vatvaka Beach Club, where you can snorkel (bring your own), kayak along the coastline or simply relax on the beach.

For those passionate about marine life, the experience can also include a unique turtle-tagging conservation activity.

Note that you'll need to make your own way to Nguna Island, which is easily accessible from Emua Wharf on the mainland. Learn more about your transport options in the Port Vila & Efate Transport Guide: 10 Ways to Get There (& Around).

One of nature's other wonders on Tanna is the Giant Banyan Tree on the western side of the island.

This ancient giant measures an incredible 80 metres (262 ft) high and spans over 100 metres (328 ft) wide, larger than a football field, and continues to grow even today.

The tree's sheer scale becomes apparent as you walk through tunnels carved between its hundreds of aerial roots, which drop like natural pillars from the sprawling canopy above. Legend has it that when Captain Cook visited Tanna in 1774, this remarkable tree was already enormous (check out more fun tidbits in our 20 Fun Facts About Vanuatu LINK#TT065).

From the scenic viewpoint, you'll gaze down upon the vast crown before descending steps to explore the base, where dappled sunlight filters through the intricate maze of roots and leaves. Local guides from the village enhance the experience, sharing insights about this living cathedral that has witnessed centuries of island history!