Welcome to Lifou! This beautiful island is an absolute paradise and well worth visiting if you are in New Caledonia. There are also a lot of incredible things to do in Lifou, whether you are a cruise ship passenger just staying 1 day, or you are lucky enough to spend a bit more time here.
Lifou is a paradise island in the South Pacific, part of the Loyalty Islands group in New Caledonia. It is a destination that offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers who are looking for a unique and authentic experience. Whether you are interested in culture, nature, adventure, or relaxation, there are so many things to do in Lifou.
You may be surprised to know that the majority of visitors to Lifou actually do so on a cruise ship from Australia or New Zealand. It is a super popular destination for cruise-goers for a good reason. Here they can experience the local culture, discover the incredible underwater life, and explore the island and its views of the surrounding ocean.
Personally, I also visited Lifou as part of my Carnival South Pacific Cruise departing from Sydney, Australia. Though we always made sure we were the first tender off the ship, and straight onto the island so we could make the most out of our day there. Lifou was actually an excellent cruise ship port as there are so many things to do a relatively easy walk from the pier.
Whether you are someone who enjoys a bit of snorkeling and making friends with the local fish, doing a spot of shopping and grabbing souvenirs, or perhaps want to experience some of the local cultures and find out what it is like to actually live on Lifou. Well luckily enough there are so many incredible things to do in Lifou that will keep you entertained, cruise ship passengers and holidaymakers alike.
Now, let’s discover the best things to do in Lifou.
The BEST 15 Things To Do In Lifou For Cruise Ship Passengers & More
- Visit Notre Dame de Lourdes Chapel
- Snorkel In Jinek Bay Marine Reserve
- Check Out The Vanilla Plantations
- Visit Luengoni Beach
- Be Amazed By The Jokin Cliffs
- Experience The Local Culture
- Check Out The Open Air Markets
- Learn About The Islands History At The Museum Of Lifou
- Visit The Nearby Islands
- Hike The Ancient Forest
- Discover The Secret Grotto
- Find Turtles At Easo Beach
- Hike Mount N’Ga
- Try The Local Dish Bougna
- Do A Tour To Luciella Beach
Visit Notre Dame de Lourdes Chapel
The Notre Dame de Lourdes Chapel in Lifou is a historical and religious landmark that offers a stunning view of the surrounding bay and island. It was built in 1898 by Catholic missionaries who came to Lifou in 1858 to spread their faith among the local people.
The chapel has simple white architecture with a statue of the Virgin Mary on top. The interior is decorated with artificial flowers and a modest altar. Every year on December 8, the chapel hosts a procession to celebrate Our Lady of Lourdes. Behind the chapel, there is a small cave that can be visited with a lamp and a guide from the village.
The chapel can be reached by a short but steep path that reveals a breathtaking panorama of the bay at every step. From the top, one can see Sandalwood Bay where cruise passengers disembark, and Jinek Bay, which is a natural underwater reserve with a rich marine life. The Jinek Bay can be accessed by another path from the chapel and offers a great spot for snorkeling, which I will let you know more about below.
If you are visiting Lifou as part of a cruise it is super easy to access Notre Dame de Lourdes Chapel, making it a must of things to do in Lifou. It is about a 15-minute or so walk from the beach where the tenders arrive. You will also get an awesome view of the cruise ship from above.
Snorkel In Jinek Bay Marine Reserve
NOTE: Unfortunately Jinek Bay Marine Reserve is now closed to the public indefinitely. The landowners decided to shut it down after seeing the effect of tourists disrespecting the rules such as standing on coral. There was also a big storm causing a lot of damage including the entryway down to the water. During cruise port days locals are stationed in the area preventing tourists from venturing down.
Jinek Bay is a natural aquarium that hosts a rich diversity of corals and fish in its clear and calm waters and is one of the most popular things to do in Lifou. You can access the bay by stairs from the cliff and explore the shallow coral plateaus and the deeper sandy areas.
You will be amazed by the colors and shapes of the corals, the giant clams, the sea lilies, and the fire clownfish. You might also encounter a Maori wrasse, a yellow-lipped sea krait, or a shoal of convict surgeonfish.
Jinek Bay is a protected marine reserve that limits the number of snorkelers per day and requires a fee of $15 per person. You also need to wear a rashie and avoid using sunscreen to protect the reef from damage.
The coral reef at Jinek Bay is one of the most beautiful and diverse in Lifou. It covers an area of about 0.5 square kilometers and has over 2,000 different species of marine animals. The corals are in various shapes and colors, such as branching, plate-like, brain-like, or mushroom-like. Some of the corals are soft and flexible, while others are hard and rigid.
The fish at Jinek Bay are colorful and abundant. You can see many different types of fish, such as surgeonfish, butterflyfish, parrotfish, wrasse, damselfish, clownfish, angelfish, triggerfish, and more. Some of the fish are small and timid, while others are large and curious.
Some of the fish are endemic to New Caledonia, such as the Maori wrasse, which can grow up to 2 meters long and has distinctive blue-green markings.
Besides fish, you can also see other animals at Jinek Bay, such as giant clams, sea lilies, sea cucumbers, sea stars, sea urchins, sea snakes, and more. Some of these animals are camouflaged or hidden among the corals, while others are exposed or moving around.
Some of these animals are harmless or beneficial to the reef, while others are venomous or invasive. For example, the giant clams can filter water and provide nutrients for the corals, while the yellow-lipped sea kraits can inject a potent neurotoxin with their bite.
Personally, I did find this spot quite overcrowded visiting during our cruise stop. The snorkeling was okay, though there was quite a bit of damage and the current was pretty strong.
We were provided with noodles to help keep afloat and there are two different circuits you can follow to explore. However I will say it was quite difficult spotting the markers when you are level with the water, so we just ended up making our own path.
Check Out The Vanilla Plantations
Visiting the vanilla plantations on Lifou is a wonderful way to discover the history, culture, and natural beauty of this island. Vanilla cultivation was introduced to Lifou by English missionaries in 1860, who gave some plants to the local tribes. Since then, vanilla has become an important part of Lifou’s economy and identity.
The island has several vanilla plantations that are open to visitors, where you can learn about the different stages of growing, harvesting, and processing vanilla.
One of the most popular places to visit is the House of Vanilla, located in the Hnathalo tribe area in southeast Lifou. Here you can see how vanilla pods are sorted, dried, and matured according to organic farming standards. You can also buy some vanilla products, such as beans, extract, powder, or perfume. The House of Vanilla also organizes tours to the Oni Wael plantation, which is located opposite the house. There you can see how vanilla flowers are pollinated by hand, a delicate and labor-intensive process that requires skill and patience.
Visit Luengoni Beach
Luengoni Beach in Lifou is a stunning destination for anyone who loves nature and adventure making it a must for the best things to do in Lifou. It is one of the most beautiful beaches in New Caledonia, with white sand, turquoise water, and coral reefs. Luengoni Beach is not only a place to relax and enjoy the sun but also a gateway to explore the underwater wonders of Lifou. Here are some of the things you can do at Luengoni Beach:
- Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear water and discover amazing marine life, including turtles, fish, and corals. You can also visit the underwater cave that is 30 meters deep and see the light rays shining through the opening.
- Walk along the beach and admire the scenery, or find a shady spot to picnic or read a book. You can also watch the local fishermen and learn about their traditional methods of fishing.
- Hike to the jewels of Luengoni, which are hidden sinkholes surrounded by lush vegetation. These natural pools have emerald-colored water that reflects the sunlight. You will need a guide to reach them, as they are located in a remote area and require some climbing and jumping.
- Learn about the culture and history of Lifou from the friendly locals, who will welcome you with their smiles and hospitality. You can also visit the nearby village of Lössi and see the traditional houses and churches.
Be Amazed By The Jokin Cliffs
The Jokin Cliffs are a stunning natural attraction and are one of the best things to do in Lifou. They are made of layers of ancient coral stone that have been raised above sea level over millions of years. The cliffs tower over the ocean at a height of about 60 meters in some places, offering a breathtaking view of the coastline and the turquoise water below.
The Jokin Cliffs are located in the north of Lifou, on the land of the Jokin tribe. You can access them by car from Wé, the main village of Lifou, and then take a stairway down to the foot of the cliffs. There, you can admire the burial chambers of the tribe’s former leaders, who were laid to rest in this sacred place. You can also enjoy some snorkeling or diving in the clear water, where you might encounter a variety of marine life.
If you are visiting as part of a cruise you will be able to book a tour of the Jokin Cliffs through Carnival or P&O directly.
Alternatively, you can try and wait until you arrive for a cheaper price and to ensure your money goes straight towards supporting the local economy, though I personally didn’t see any taxis or people offering this tour. Nevertheless, I am sure if you were to ask some of the locals at the port they would be able to put you in contact with the right person.
Experience The Local Culture
One of the best ways to experience the local culture in Lifou is by visiting the traditional huts of the Kanak people, the original inhabitants of New Caledonia.
These huts are made of natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and palm leaves, and have a distinctive conical shape. They are designed to withstand cyclones and provide ventilation and shade. Some of the huts are open for visitors, while others are reserved for the locals.
By staying overnight in a traditional Melanesian hut, you can enjoy the opportunity to try local dishes, learn about Kanak customs, and gain a greater understanding of what makes this South Pacific culture so special.
You can also interact with the friendly and hospitable locals, who will welcome you with a smile and a coconut drink. You can learn about their history, their beliefs, and their way of life. You can also witness some of their ceremonies and dances, such as the pilou, which is performed on special occasions.
Check Out The Open Air Markets
One of the most enjoyable things to do in Lifou is to visit the open-air markets that are set up by the locals near the wharf right where you get off the cruise ship.
The markets are a great way to experience the culture and cuisine of the island, as well as to find some unique souvenirs and handicrafts. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your visit to the open-air markets in Lifou:
The markets are usually open from 8 am to 4 pm, but they may close earlier or later depending on the weather and the number of visitors. It is best to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat and to have more time to browse the stalls.
The stalls generally accept both Australian dollars and Pacific francs, but it is advisable to have some local currency on hand for smaller purchases. You can exchange money at the nearby post office or at some of the stalls. Be prepared to bargain with the vendors, as they may offer you a lower price if you buy more than one item or show interest in their products.
The markets offer a variety of goods, such as clothing, jewelry, wood carvings, baskets, mats, shells, spices, vanilla, coconut oil, and more. Some of the items are made by the locals using traditional methods and materials, while others are imported from other islands or countries. You can ask the vendors about the origin and meaning of their products, and they will be happy to share their stories and knowledge with you.
There is also a good food section, where you can sample some delicious island dishes, such as bougna, grilled lobster, coconut crab, banana fritters, fresh fruit, and more. You can also try some local drinks, such as kava (a mildly intoxicating beverage made from the roots of a pepper plant), coconut water, or fruit juice. Be sure to bring your own water bottle and reusable bag to reduce plastic waste.
Learn About The Islands History At The Museum Of Lifou
Visiting the Museum of Lifou is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of this beautiful island. The museum is located in the village of Easo, near the Notre Dame de Lourdes church, which offers a stunning view of the bay.
The museum is open from Monday to Friday, from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and on Saturday from 8:30 am to 12 pm. The entrance fee is 500 XPF / $4.50 per person.
The museum showcases various aspects of Lifou’s traditional and contemporary life, such as the architecture, agriculture, crafts, ceremonies, and customs of the local people.
You can see examples of traditional huts, canoes, tools, weapons, costumes, and jewelry. You can also learn about the island’s flora and fauna, as well as its geology and climate.
The museum is run by a friendly and knowledgeable staff who can answer your questions and guide you through the exhibits. You can also book a guided tour of the village and the church for an additional fee. The tour lasts about an hour and a half and gives you a deeper insight into the history and culture of Easo.
Visit The Nearby Islands
Visiting the nearby islands from Lifou is a great way to experience the diversity and beauty of the Loyalty Islands. You can choose from several options depending on your preferences and budget.
Tiga Island: One option is to take a boat tour that will take you to Tiga Island, the smallest and least populated of the Loyalty Islands. Tiga Island is known for its pristine beaches, turquoise lagoon, and rich marine life. You can snorkel, swim, or relax on the sand while enjoying the views of the surrounding coral reefs. You can also visit the traditional village of Wadra and learn about the local culture and history. A boat tour to Tiga Island usually lasts about 4 hours and costs around 10,000 XPF / $91.00 per person.
Ouvéa: Another option is to fly to Ouvéa Island, the northernmost and most remote of the Loyalty Islands. Ouvéa Island is famous for its 25 km long white sand beach, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Ouvéa Island is also home to a variety of birds, including the endemic Ouvéa parakeet, which is endangered and protected. You can explore the island by bike, kayak, or 4WD, or join a guided tour to see the natural and cultural attractions. A flight to Ouvéa Island from Lifou takes about 30 minutes and costs around 15,000 XPF / $136.00 per person.
Maré: A third option is to fly to Maré Island, the southernmost and most rugged of the Loyalty Islands. Maré Island is characterized by its volcanic landscape, with cliffs, caves, pools, and waterfalls. Maré Island is also rich in traditions and customs, with many sacred sites and ceremonies. You can hike, dive, or fish on the island, or visit the local markets and handicrafts shops. A flight to Maré Island from Lifou takes about 20 minutes and costs around 12,000 XPF / $109.00 per person.
Even though visiting the nearby islands is one of the best things to do in Lifou I only recommend it if you are staying multiple days here, this isn’t something which is suitable for cruise ship passengers.
Hike The Ancient Forest
Hiking the ancient forest in Lifou is a wonderful way to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this island. The ancient forest is one of the few remaining old-growth forests in the world, and it is home to some of the oldest trees on the island, as well as many endemic plants that have been used by the Melanesian people for centuries.
If you want to hike through the ancient forest, you can join a guided tour that will take you along a scenic trail through the forest and along the seaside cliffs. You will learn about the history and traditions of the local people, and how they use the plants for medicine, food, and crafts. You will also have a chance to take photos of the stunning views and enjoy some refreshments at the end of your hike.
There are different options for booking a hiking tour through the ancient forest. This is one of the best things to do in Lifou if you are visiting by cruise ship. Both Carnival and P&O offer a hike with their shore excursions. The tours vary in price, duration, and difficulty level, so make sure to check the details before you book. Some things to keep in mind are:
- This tour requires extensive walking through rocky, uneven terrain and is not recommended for guests with limited mobility.
- Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders, and midriffs must be covered; short shorts and swimwear are not allowed. It is important to ask permission before taking an individual’s photograph.
- The bus is not air-conditioned or equipped with a PA system.
- Local escorts and students will act as guides who will do their best to speak English, but please keep in mind that the limited tourism infrastructure is part of Lifou’s charm.
- The restroom facilities are rustic.
- To make your adventure as enjoyable as possible please wear comfortable flat-soled shoes, clothing suited to the weather conditions, bring a hat, plenty of sunscreen, and bottled water.
Discover The Secret Grotto
One popular thing to do in Lifou, especially for cruise shipgoers is visiting the Secret Grotto. This is located a short walk from the wharf in the opposite direction to the Notre Dame de Lourdes Chapel.
You can book a guided tour that will take you on a walk through the forest, where you can see and learn about the native plants and animals. You can also see how the locals use the forest resources for hunting, fishing, and medicine. The tour guide will show you how to make a trap for catching coconut crabs, which are a delicacy on the island.
The highlight of the tour is the secret grotto, which is a cave that has been formed by water erosion over thousands of years. The entrance to the grotto is hidden by vegetation, and you have to descend a steep and slippery path to get inside.
Once you are in the grotto, you will be amazed by the sight of stalagmites and stalactites that have different shapes and colors. You can also swim in the crystal clear water that fills the bottom of the cave. The water is cool and refreshing, and you can see fish and other creatures swimming around.
One thing I will say is I do not recommend the secret grotto if you are not comfortable navigating up and down jungle stairs with no railing this probably isn’t the activity for you. It is quite steep in some parts, this could especially cause issues if the track is muddy.
Find Turtles At Easo Beach
The beach at Lifou Wharf is a beautiful spot to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea. It is located near the Easo village, where the cruise ships dock and the Wharfside Markets are held.
The beach is popular with visitors who want to relax, swim, snorkel, or kayak in the clear blue water. Easo Beach also offers stunning views of the Notre Dame de Lourdes chapel, which stands on a hill overlooking the bay. The beach is surrounded by coconut palms and tropical vegetation, creating a peaceful and picturesque setting.
One of my personal favorite things about this beach is that it is a free spot where you can swim with turtles. Now there is no guarantee of this, but numerous visitors, including myself, have had great luck.
If you are keen to see turtles while on your cruise there is no better place than in the wild, where you can watch them chill out. Just remember to respect the turtles, make sure you keep some distance, and do not touch them.
Hike Mount N’Ga
Hiking Mount N’Ga on Lifou is a great way to experience the natural beauty and is one of the best things to do in Lifou. Mount N’Ga is the highest point on Lifou, reaching 132 meters above sea level. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding lagoon, coral reefs, and villages.
The hike is about 3 kilometers long and takes about an hour and a half to complete. It is suitable for all levels of fitness and can be done with or without a guide.
To start the hike, you need to get to the village of Hnathalo, which is about 20 kilometers from the main town of Wé. You can take a bus, a taxi, or rent a car to get there. Once you arrive at Hnathalo, you will see a sign that says “Mont N’Ga” and a trail that leads to the mountain.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow. Along the way, you will pass through coconut plantations, native forests, and grasslands. You will also see some traditional Kanak houses and monuments, such as the Grand Case (the chief’s house) and the Tumulus (a burial mound).
The hike is not very steep or difficult, but it can be hot and humid, so make sure to bring enough water and sunscreen. You will also need to pay a small fee of 300 XPF / $3.00 to enter the trail, which goes to the local community.
As you reach the summit of Mount N’Ga, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of the island and the ocean. You can see the different shades of blue and green of the water, the white sand beaches, and the colorful coral reefs. You can also spot some of the other islands of the Loyalty archipelago, such as Ouvéa and Maré.
Try The Local Dish Bougna
One of the most iconic dishes of the Kanak people is bougna, a stew made with coconut milk, root vegetables, and meat or seafood. Bougna is usually cooked in a traditional earthen oven, where the ingredients are wrapped in banana leaves and placed over hot stones.
The result is a tender and flavorful dish that is served on special occasions and ceremonies.
You are able to purchase this dish down at the open-air market and it’s the perfect way to keep your energy levels up between snorkeling sessions!
Do A Tour To Luciella Beach
A tour of Luecila Beach in Lifou is a great way to experience the natural beauty and culture of this island in New Caledonia. Here is a possible description of what you can expect from this tour:
You will board a bus or a van that will take you on a scenic drive across the island, passing by hibiscus and poinsettia hedges, traditional village houses, and lush green hills. You will enjoy the views of the turquoise sea and the coral reefs along the way. You will also learn about the history and customs of the local people from your guide, who may be a local escort or a student.
After about an hour, you will arrive at Luecila Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in Lifou. You will be greeted by a refreshing coconut drink and a stunning panorama of white sand, blue water, and palm trees. You will have about 90 minutes to relax and explore this paradise.
You can swim in the crystal-clear water, sunbathe on the soft sand, or stroll along the shore. You can also browse the market stalls that sell locally-made crafts, souvenirs, and artwork. You may find some unique items such as shell necklaces, woven baskets, or wooden carvings.
After enjoying your time at Luecila Beach, you will board the bus or the van again and head back to your cruise ship. On the way back, you will have another chance to admire the scenery and take some photos.
How To Get To Lifou?
Lifou is a beautiful island in the Loyalty Islands archipelago of New Caledonia. It is known for its stunning beaches, coral reefs, caves, and culture. If you are interested in visiting Lifou, here are some ways to get there:
By plane: You can fly to Lifou from Nouméa, the capital of New Caledonia, with Air Calédonie. The flight takes about 40 minutes and lands at Ouanaham Airport, located in the north of the island.
By cruise ship: Many cruise lines offer stops at Lifou as part of their South Pacific itineraries. You can enjoy a day of exploring the island’s attractions, such as Luengoni Beach, Jinek Bay, Notre Dame de Lourdes, and Easo Beach.
By ferry: You can also take a ferry from Nouméa to Lifou with Betico. The ferry operates twice a week and takes about four hours to reach Wé, the main town of Lifou.
Where To Stay In Lifou?
Unfortunately, many people visit Lifou as just a port stop on a cruise ship. This means there aren’t a whole lot of accommodation options available here. For those people who are willing to get off the beaten track and come experience this slice of paradise for longer than 8 hours, you will for sure be rewarded for your efforts in paradise.
The ideal stay is just across from the beach. Rooms here start from $100.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
The perfect option for large groups. A two-bedroom house for 4 people starts at $135.00 per night. BOOK NOW |
Ultimate List Of The Best Things To Do In Lifou
- Visit Notre Dame de Lourdes Chapel
- Snorkel In Jinek Bay Marine Reserve
- Check Out The Vanilla Plantations
- Visit Luengoni Beach
- Be Amazed By The Jokin Cliffs
- Experience The Local Culture
- Check Out The Open Air Markets
- Learn About The Islands History At The Museum Of Lifou
- Visit The Nearby Islands
- Hike The Ancient Forest
- Discover The Secret Grotto
- Find Turtles At Easo Beach
- Hike Mount N’Ga
- Try The Local Dish Bougna
- Do A Tour To Luciella Beach
Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!
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