20 Free & Cheap Things to Do on Espiritu Santo

We may be so predictable for starting off this list of cheap things to do in Santo with a blue hole but, well, who doesn't want to visit a blue hole?! As good as any is the Riri Blue Hole, especially with the unique option to take an outrigger canoe ride to get there.

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.

A blue hole with a lot of fun factors, Matevulu Blue Hole is only moments away from Riri Blue Hole.

Here, crystal-clear waters plunge around 18 m (59 ft) deep; so deep that the water turns an opaque blue, and only in the shallows can you see the bottom.

Upon arrival, you'll find a rustic welcome centre where a custodian usually takes entry fees, though there's an honesty box system in place with entry fees of around 1,000 VT (bring cash). Basic facilities include toilets, changing rooms and lounging areas. The star attraction is an enormous banyan tree on the water's edge, complete with rope swings and a metal ladder for easy access to the highest launching points.

The blue hole also features a thrilling waterslide that requires a bucket of water for the smoothest ride down. For those wanting to stay on the water, kayak hire is available to paddle around the blue hole itself (though not down the river). If you have your snorkels, it's possible to see fish glide through shafts of sunlight piercing the deep blue depths.

It's possible to kayak through pristine jungle waterways from Turtle Bay Lodge and other nearby resorts, watching the water transform from ocean blue to the ethereal turquoise that gives this blue hole its fame. Otherwise, the normal way to access is by road along the historical Turtle Bay Airstrip.

See World War Two memorabilia in the most adventurous way, with a reef walk or snorkel at Million Dollar Point.

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.

Santo's most iconic beach, Champagne Beach offers a glorious sandy bay with only a small entry fee to access.

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.

If you want to avoid overrated beaches, Lonnoc Beach is a much quieter and more affordable alternative.

In the shadow of the neighbouring Champagne Beach, some prefer this beach as the more peaceful sister.

This beautiful coastal setting off the east coast boasts all white sand with turquoise water and views of Elephant Island.

The series of bungalows along Lonnoc Beach tends to accept day visitors for a small fee, while Lonnoc Eco Beach Bungalows can offer kayaking tours, typically to neighbouring Champagne Beach.

The secluded nature of this beach makes it perfect for those seeking tranquillity away from the crowds, while the gleaming waters provide excellent opportunities for swimming and snorkelling.

A fantastic museum covering the Pacific theatre of World War Two, The South Pacific WWII Museum is well worth checking out, especially if you are on a budget.

Your visit kicks off with the museum's significant location in Unity Park, where tranquil coconut plantations were once transformed into the largest military base in the South Pacific during World War Two. Between 1942 and 1945, around half a million personnel passed through Espiritu Santo on their way to and from the front lines.

This small museum preserves its legacy, showcasing the world's largest collection of SS President Coolidge artefacts, including the ship's bell and main whistle. The extensive displays feature authentic memorabilia recovered from Santo: uniforms, hats from various military branches, weapons, gas masks, eating utensils, and instructional pamphlets from the war era. A door from the USS Strong shipwreck adds to the maritime history, while detailed dioramas recreate the seaplane bases and bomber airfields that once dominated the landscape.

Wall displays share stories of significant military figures and local wartime history, including tales of the infamous Dancing Bear Club that operated on Luganville's Main Street. The collection also includes a "Culture Corner" with indigenous Lapita pottery, connecting the island's ancient heritage with its pivotal role in Pacific military history.

You didn't think we were done with Santo's blue holes, did you? Santo's Blue Hole (also known as Jackie's or Nanda Blue Hole) is a popular choice among locals and our personal favourite.

The blue hole features decks, steps and jumping platforms where you can leap into the vividly blue water or simply relax and soak up the lush jungle surrounding. 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.

The site operates two different deck areas with separate entry fees; Santo's Blue Hole to the west and Jackie's Blue Hole to the east. The Santo's Blue Hole side includes convenient change rooms and restrooms, plus a bar area where fresh fruit juices and food can be ordered upon request.

Beyond just swimming, Santo's Blue Hole offers a unique half-day agriculture and cooking experience that includes a garden tour where you can harvest fresh produce, participate in traditional cooking classes, and enjoy complimentary blue hole access.

For those wanting to extend their stay, basic accommodation is available with breakfast included, and overnight guests enjoy free access to the Blue Hole.

Welcome to M Garden, a passionate local gardener's labour of love that offers an intimate glimpse into island horticulture, all for a very affordable price.

This charming garden showcases a delightful mix of tropical flowers, fruit trees and local plants, all lovingly tended by owner-operator, Mary, who doubles as your personal guide.

During your 20-minute guided tour, you'll discover fascinating growing techniques like orchids artfully attached to banyan trees, sample fresh star fruit juice, and learn about some more traditional gardening methods. The garden features a greenhouse displaying local plants for hire, a children's playground area with swings, and even a small fish pond.

What makes this experience special is the genuine passion of your host, who shares local knowledge and sustainable gardening practices whilst supporting community mamas by selling their flowers on-site.

M Garden is open Monday to Friday from 8 am to 2 pm, weekends by arrangement for cruise passengers or accommodation guests (phone ahead).

That's right, you can enjoy island-living straight off the coast of Luganville by taking one of the complimentary ferries to Aore Island.

You'll experience tropical island tranquillity just 10 minutes by ferry from Luganville.

Both Aore Island Resort and Freshwater Plantation offer complimentary transfers and recreational equipment, including fat wheel bikes, stand-up paddleboards and kayaks for exploring the lush terrain and pristine waters.

Cultural enthusiasts will love the daily island classes where you can learn traditional weaving, make fresh coconut milk or discover ancient stories through sand drawing—a wonderful way to immerse yourself in Vanuatu's rich heritage at an unhurried pace.

What's more, both resorts have restaurants so you don't even need to pack lunch!

At the end of the east coast road, Port Olry Beach is your grand finale and provides a good excuse to check out the rest of the east coast highlights on this list.

The journey is as memorable as the destination itself, following a scenic coconut tree-lined road that builds anticipation for the spectacular beach reveal.

Once there, you'll find Chez Louis' Restaurant perfectly positioned for extended relaxation sessions. You'll want to place your order with plenty of time to spare, then dive into the inviting turquoise waters or chat with friendly locals while you wait. If you're lucky, you might spot a turtle or a dungong while you're out swimming.

Watch traditional dugout canoes glide across the lagoon as local fishermen return with their daily catch.

The peaceful atmosphere is occasionally shared with curious cattle seeking shade under nearby banyan trees, creating charmingly unexpected moments that epitomise the laid-back island lifestyle.

Head west from Luganville and you have a couple of stunning cascades to discover, starting with the Tuffuntari Waterfall.

Just 45 mins-1 hour from Luganville, this locally-owned gem welcomes visitors to spend anywhere from an hour to a full day immersed in nature's finest display.

The experience begins with a short walk alongside the kastom owner (local host), Reynald, who typically shares fascinating insights about Vanuatu's traditional way of life.

Whether you choose to swim in the crystal-clear pools, explore upstream where you'll find more small waterfalls, or simply relax on the benches while listening to the cascading water, this waterfall delivers pure tranquillity.

Fresh fruit is provided for all visitors, and practical amenities include changing rooms and a bush toilet. Reynald lights fires around the area to help keep mosquitoes at bay (though you should bring your own repellent, just to be safe).

For those seeking a deeper cultural experience and a way to make the journey south more worthwhile, full-day tours are available that combine the waterfall visit with a village lunch and outrigger canoe trip to historic Tangoa Island.

Calling ahead is essential (5443483) and ensures Reynald is ready to greet you upon arrival.

A cultural experience that will only cost as much as you decide to spend, the Luganville Market draws you in with its snack and fruit stalls.

Santo offers multiple vibrant marketplaces that showcase the island's abundance and local culture. Luganville Market operates Monday through Saturday and bursts with an incredible array of fresh fruits and vegetables, all grown locally and harvested with care. The friendly vendors are usually happy to share stories about their produce and offer samples of exotic fruits you may have never encountered before.

For those seeking ready-made meals, the market's traditional food restaurants, split into around eight booths, serve up authentic local street food from early morning until evening. Here you'll find food stalls offering freshly prepared fish, chicken, and steak served with traditional sides like rice, tomatoes, and leafy greens - perfect for experiencing genuine Ni-Vanuatu cuisine.

The markets truly come alive during morning hours when the selection is at its peak, making it the perfect time to experience the authentic local atmosphere. From familiar tropical staples to unique island varieties, you'll discover flavours that capture the essence of Vanuatu's fertile lands.

A lesser-known swimming spot on Santo, Melon River & Beach offers the best of both worlds with freshwater straight from the Riri Spring, meeting the lagoon waters on the East Coast.

This picturesque swimming hole, open every day, features cool inviting waters perfect for escaping the tropical heat, surrounded by shady riverside areas complete with convenient picnic benches.

The sandy coastal stretch provides an ideal spot for relaxation, while practical amenities include bathroom and changing facilities.

What makes this location truly special is its fascinating World War 2 history. While you wait for the owners to unlock the chain access, you can admire authentic WW2 plane wings and bomber remnants displayed under a protective shelter.

For history enthusiasts, the friendly owners are happy to show you additional WW2 artefacts, including tanks, bombs and bullets from 1942, all at no extra charge.

The Santo Golf Club offers an affordable golfing experience in a stunning island setting.

This nine-hole course transforms into a full 18-hole par 72 experience through clever alternate tees, winding its way uphill through tropical parkland dotted with swaying coconut palms.

What makes this course truly special is its breathtaking Pacific Ocean vistas that unfold as you ascend the elevated fairways. The course operates year-round on an honesty system, reflecting the laid-back island charm that makes Vanuatu so appealing.

With small green fees including club hire, you can play unlimited rounds across this scenic tropical landscape. The clubhouse opens only for weekend competitions, so remember to bring everything you need, especially water, for your round.

Step into the charming world of Dolasa Mama's Handicraft, where skilled seamstresses create beautiful custom island dresses and shirts tailored to your measurements.

This authentic cultural experience allows you to mingle with the friendly "mamas" while they craft traditional island garments using vibrant fabrics (calico/kaleko) of your choice. The talented tailors can create your custom piece in less than a day, with prices ranging from 1,500-3,000 VT for shirts and 2,000-5,000 VT for dresses, depending on the design and fabric selection.

You can either bring your own fabric or choose from their available selection, and the team will source exactly what you need.

Open from 7:30 am to 4:30 pm Monday to Friday and closing early Saturday, this local tailoring shop offers visitors the perfect opportunity to take home a truly personalised souvenir that captures the essence of island style.

And another blue hole to tick off the list, Thar Blue Hole is right next to Nanda Blue Hole.

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/Jackie's/Santo's 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.

Visit Chief's Nakamal in Santo's main town to witness one of Vanuatu's most significant traditional structures.

Also known as the Navaravara Nakamal, this sacred meeting house serves as the heart of village governance, where important community decisions are made and villagers seek permission for various activities.

The nakamal (not to be confused with kava bars, which share the same name) showcases traditional architecture crafted entirely from natural materials. Admire the intricate panelled woven walls and the distinctive natangura palm leaf roof that demonstrates centuries-old building techniques passed down through generations.

While entry inside is restricted, the exterior provides excellent photo opportunities. The large field in front often buzzes with activity as locals gather to play traditional sports, offering an authentic glimpse into daily village life.

Nestled beneath an unassuming road bridge, Surunda Swimming Hole offers one of the most delightfully social swimming experiences you'll find. What's more, it's one of the rare options that has no entry fee.

The crystal-clear stream creates perfect shallow pools for a refreshing dip, surrounded by an attractive bushy setting that feels like nature's own private retreat.

As cars pass over the bridge above, drivers cheerfully wave and say hello to swimmers below. A rope swing adds an extra element of fun for those wanting a bit more adventure than just floating in the pristine waters.

Scattered across the plains on the way to Fanafo village, a number of US World War Two bunkers are now being reclaimed by the cows.

Originally built as military shelters, these corrugated iron structures now dot the landscape of cattle fields and provide emergency cyclone refuges for communities.

The bunkers are cleverly camouflaged with grass-covered roofs, making them blend seamlessly into the pastoral landscape beneath shady trees.

Scattered throughout the countryside on the road to Fanafo, the bunkers are commonly included in Santo Heritage Tours' "Mt Hope Waterfall Tour" and "WW2 History Tour".

Delve into the lush forests of Santo to spot all sorts of birds and native plant species on a guided walk at Loru Conservation Area.

The traditional Serakar Clan have successfully protected over 200 ha (494 acres) from deforestation through innovative carbon credit programmes.

This remarkable conservation success story offers visitors the chance to explore several excellent nature walks through remnant rainforest and limestone caves that connect the community with the sea. Forest walks allow you to encounter some of the 24 bird species living here, including five endemic varieties like the megapod bird, spot coconut crabs in their natural habitat, and discover a fascinating bat cave that doubles as the villagers' cyclone shelter.

The guided walks, lasting approximately 30 minutes, showcase flying fox sanctuaries and native fruit trees planted specifically to ensure endemic birds have adequate food sources. According to locals, this community-driven conservation effort ensures future generations will witness these unique species that would otherwise be lost to land-clearing and large-scale agriculture.