Top experiences

The New Caledonian lagoons are full of underwater wonders, including manta rays. These mysterious devilfish are often found around the Isle of Pines and the Loyalty Islands, where they can be observed by snorkellers, as well as on scuba dive trips throughout the whole territory. A truly unforgettable encounter!

The adrenaline rush of skydiving is rivalled only by the sight of the largest lagoon in the world from the air. The experience of jumping from over 4000 metres and free-falling at more than 200 km/h is truly indescribable. Not to mention the memorable minutes spent suspended in mid-air once the parachute has deployed!

In the heart of the Blue River Provincial Park, the Drowned Forest is famous for the hundreds of bleached gum oak trunks that have emerged from the lake since the creation of a huge dam. It is accessible during the day, but nothing compares to kayaking through this ghostly setting in the moonlight!

It's impossible to miss the imposing black limestone rock that looms out of the waters of Hienghène Bay. Known as "La Poule" because of its striking resemblance to a hen, it has even influenced the legends of the local tribes, who made it the ancestral guardian of the region and one of the symbols of their country. To get a closer look and navigate around the surrounding Lindéralique rocks, a kayak is the way to go!

With calm water and constant winds, the Poé lagoon in Bourail is perfect for kitesurfing. After a few hours of lessons to master your kite, you can enjoy complete freedom on the water and in the air, whether you prefer speed or freestyling.

Taking off from Bourail Beach may be an impressive feat, but it is nothing compared to the view of the New Caledonian lagoon from the sky. Lacy coral, waves breaking on the barrier reef, schools of rays, endless shades of blue and green... No wonder it has been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

Just across from Nouméa, Ilot Canard is the perfect spot to spend a lazy day. This islet includes a restaurant/bar, and can be accessed by taxi boat from Anse Vata. The underwater trail provides an excellent overview of the various species of coral and tropical fish. Just put on your snorkel and flippers and take in the incredible marine life around you.

Put on your walking boots and tackle the GR® NC1 hiking trail that cuts across the southern tip of Grande Terre, either by yourself or with a guide. This long-distance footpath ("Grande Randonnée") is divided into 7 stages of 5-8 hours to suit enthusiasts and athletes alike. From the red landscape of the Great South to the Dumbéa rainforest, remember to pack supplies and enjoy the view!

The Nouméa lagoon is a veritable paradise for boardsports. Whether your prefer kitesurfing, paddleboarding or windsurfing, just choose your board and dive into the turquoise water. Kitesurfers flock to Le Méridien Beach in Nouméa, windsurfers to the Côte Blanche and paddleboarders to Anse Vata Beach. Sun, sea and surf all year round!

In a secluded spot northwest of Lifou, Jinek Bay offers an incredible open-air aquarium. Snorkelling is the perfect way for swimmers to admire breathtaking coral heads. Discover a dazzling rainbow of colours and underwater life along two marked underwater courses!

The Domaine de Deva is a rambler's paradise. On foot, by bike or on horseback, you can stroll from the beach to the largest dry forest in the territory, passing through a mangrove along the way. Its golden hills offer a breathtaking panorama of the lagoon, the coral reef and the Shark Fault!

The 3-Bay Trail is one of the most beautiful walks on the West Coast and a must-do for anyone staying in Bourail! Start at La Roche Percée where the famous "Bonhomme", a rock shaped like a man, overlooks the beach. From there you can continue round Turtle Bay, shaded by giant New Caledonia pines, until you reach the secluded hideaway known as Lovers’ Bay...