Nouméa on foot from the ferry docks | Sud Tourism New Caledonia

Your starting point: the Tourist Office

On the Ferry Docks

To start your walk in Nouméa, the Tourist Office is an essential passage. Located on the quays, this friendly place welcomes you to provide all the information necessary for a successful discovery of the city.

You will be able to pick up the map of Nouméa for free, an indispensable tool to easily find your way and fully enjoy your itinerary. The team will also direct you to the events of the day: artistic exhibitions, concerts, local markets or cultural activities.

In addition to detailed brochures and exclusive tips, you will receive personalized advice tailored to the duration of your visit and your desires at the moment.

Tip: If you are on a cruise stopover, ask for the list of tips to optimize your time and live an authentic experience.

Maritime Museum of New Caledonia

About 6 minutes walk from the Tourist Office

Housed in a former warehouse of the naval base, the Maritime Museum invites you to dive into the fascinating history of navigation in the Pacific. We discover models of ships, ancient maps, exploration objects and treasures recovered from mythical wrecks, such as those of the famous frigate La Pérouse.

The museum also highlights the intimate relationship between New Caledonia and the sea: Kanak maritime traditions, trade routes, scientific explorations and the strategic role of Nouméa in naval history.

For families, playful materials allow children to learn about life at sea and great exploration trips.

Practical advice : Allow approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour for the visit.

Two steps from here

the Maritime Museum

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Coconut Square

About 8 minutes walk from the Maritime Museum

True beating heart of Nouméa, the Coconut square is the ideal place to soak up the local atmosphere. Between its bandstand, fountains, shaded lawns and flowerbeds, it is a popular meeting place for both locals and visitors.

Stroll around the square to discover its small shops, traditional businesses and lively cafes. Depending on the season, you can come across ephemeral markets, cultural events or outdoor concerts.

Recommended break : sit on the terrace to enjoy a coffee or a good meal while observing city life.

Saint Joseph's Cathedral

About 10 minutes on foot from the Coconut square

Dominating the city center from a small hill, the Saint Joseph’s Cathedral is one of the most emblematic monuments of Nouméa. Built at the end of the 19th century by convicts, its neo-Gothic architecture is distinguished by its colorful stained glass windows and its imposing facade in local stone.

While climbing the steps that lead there, you will enjoy a nice panorama on the city, the port and the surrounding mountains. Inside, the peaceful atmosphere and the light filtered by the stained glass windows invite to a moment of contemplation.

Photo tip : the morning light particularly highlights the facade and offers a beautiful view of the bay from the esplanade.

Noumea municipal market

About 12 minutes walk from the Saint-Joseph Cathedral

A must-see, the Municipal Market brings together every morning producers, fishermen and artisans from all over Grande Terre and the islands. Under its emblematic blue roofs, you will find an explosion of colors and perfumes : tropical fruits, vegetables from the country, freshly caught fish, exotic flowers and local spices.

It is also an excellent place to find authentic souvenirs : artisanal jewelry, sculptures, textiles or traditional objects. The Caledonians meet there to do their shopping, but also to discuss and share a friendly moment.

Open only in the morning : ideal for a quick breakfast or fresh fruit juice before continuing your walk.

Tip : come early to enjoy the lively atmosphere and the freshest products.

Port Moselle & taxi-boats

About 10 minutes walk from the Municipal Market

Facing the marina, Port Moselle is the ideal starting point for a getaway to the islands of the lagoon. Here, the taxi-boats take you in just a few minutes to nearby paradises like Duck Island or Maître Island, where you can enjoy white sand beaches, turquoise waters and water activities.

The dock is also a pleasant place to walk and admire the sailboats, or sit on the terrace in one of the restaurants and cafes overlooking the boats.

Practical tip : on site, you will also find scooter rentals to explore further the bays and beaches of Nouméa.

List of taxi-boats

Stroll in Nouméa

Water sports, Nouméa market, place des cocotiers, museums, beaches and islets, restaurants on the bays, themed tours, shows, bars and cafes, shopping… there is something to do in the capital! And if it rains? Take the opportunity to wander through museums, enjoy a movie or take refuge in a trendy café in Nouméa.

Find more ideas in our pages “Activities in Nouméa” and “what to do when it rains“.