Traditional outrigger canoe trip across Upi Bay, excluding lunch (XPF 5,018 per person) Natural Pool entrance fee: XPF 200 per person. Please remember to bring cash.

The price does not include

Transport between activities. Food and drinks purchased at bars and restaurants. Purchases made in Vao village. Lunch.

Travel Ideas

Your day trip to the Isle of Pines

Just a short flight from Nouméa, the Isle of Pines offers an immediate change of scenery. Life moves at a gentler pace here: journeys are unhurried, locals greet one another along the way, and the lagoon is never far from view. In just one day, you can discover the island’s most iconic sights while still taking time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere for which it is renowned.

From

5218 XPF

per person

Suggested to do in

1 day

YOU’LL LOVE

Discovering Vao village, its market, church and customary heritage.
Crossing Upi Bay in a traditional outrigger canoe, guided by a local boatman.
Swimming among tropical fish in Oro’s natural pool.
Watching one of the island’s most beautiful sunsets from Kuto or Kanuméra Beach.

Our advisor's top pick

There are so many places to discover and things to do on the Isle of Pines, but one experience holds a special place in my heart: sailing across Upi Bay in a traditional outrigger canoe. Follow it with a short walk through the forest to reach the magical Natural Pool, and you have the makings of a truly unforgettable experience.

Reach out

Mado

Pratical information

Your stay Step by step

An early start at the island’s local market

Start the day with an early visit to Vao, the lively heart of the Isle of Pines. Depending on the day and opening times, you may find small local shops, a market or informal stalls selling seasonal fruit, snacks, chilled water and homemade specialities. It is the perfect opportunity to pick up supplies for a picnic, chat with local residents and soak up the peaceful atmosphere as the village comes to life.

While you are there, look out for the Church of Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, the carved totems and the traditional great house, all reflecting the island’s vibrant Kanak culture.

Events in Isle of Pines

Vao Church

Admire this colourful church set in the Isle of Pines’ main village and enjoy the stunning view from a short walk away!

A timeless day

©
Baie d'Upi - île des pins - Pirogue
|
S Ducandas / NCTPS

Piscine Naturelle Oro Ile Des Pins — ©
Piscine Naturelle d'Oro - Ile Des Pins
|
Nana Mitsui / NCTPS

One of the island’s must-do experiences is crossing Upi Bay by traditional outrigger canoe. Departures usually take place at around 8 am from Saint-Joseph Bay. Seated in small groups, you glide through crystal-clear waters between towering limestone rock formations covered in lush vegetation, accompanied by a local canoe guide.

At the far end of the bay, the canoe drops you off for a walk of around 45 minutes through the forest and shallow lagoon towards Oro Bay. The trail winds beneath the island’s iconic columnar pines before opening out onto the famous Natural Pool.

Once there, take time to swim, watch the tropical fish or simply enjoy this remarkable setting. You can bring a picnic or have lunch nearby, including at Kougny Restaurant, located close to the site.

Important tip :

Access to the Natural Pool is subject to an entrance fee, so remember to bring cash.
The shuttle usually collects visitors at around 3 pm from the Natural Pool entrance and takes them back to their accommodation.
Booking this excursion in advance through your hotel or a local tour operator is recommended.

Sunset at Kuto and Kanuméra Bays

End your day on the iconic beaches of Kuto and Kanuméra. Easy to reach and sheltered from the prevailing winds, both bays offer calm waters that are perfect for a final swim. The island’s distinctive columnar pines line the shore, creating natural pockets of shade.

At Kuto Beach, several beachfront restaurants and venues make it easy to linger over a drink or enjoy dinner overlooking the lagoon. Their west-facing terraces provide an especially beautiful setting as the day draws to a close.

More secluded and intimate, Kanuméra Beach is ideal for swimming, walking along the beach and simply taking in the scenery.

New Caledonia is renowned for the extraordinary colours of its sunsets, and the Isle of Pines is no exception. As the light softens, the shades of the lagoon slowly begin to change. It is a peaceful moment to enjoy one last swim, watch the sunset, stroll along the sand or simply savour the tranquillity.

Le Domaine Kanuméra

Enjoy a relaxing break in stunning Kanumera Bay on the Isle of Pines with its beautiful sandy beach!

Hôtel Kou-Bugny

Enjoy a stay in this comfortable, well-located hotel with restaurant right next to Kuto and Kanumera, two of the Isle of Pines’ most iconic bays!

Kanumera bar

Enjoy a delicious cocktail by beautiful Kanumera beach on the Isle of Pines!

Get Inspired by Isles of Pines' must-sees

Need to adjust your stay?

Planning to spend more or less time in the Isles of Pines or looking to explore other regions? Check out our suggestions to customize your itinerary! Choose the option that best matches your travel desires: