Luganville, Vanuatu Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!

Nestled on the island of Espiritu Santo, Luganville stands as Vanuatu‘s second-largest city with over 18,000 residents. This charming destination blends fascinating World War II history with stunning natural beauty that will take your breath away.

Visiting Luganville offers you the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation with attractions that showcase the island’s unique character. Explore the mysterious Millennium Cave, snorkel at Million Dollar Point, or swim in the crystal-clear waters of Riri Blue Hole. Mount Hope Waterfall provides another refreshing escape from the tropical heat.

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When you wander through town, you’ll discover a place where paradise and history intertwine. Originally developed during World War II, Luganville now welcomes visitors to experience its enchanting landscapes while uncovering the rich military past that shaped this island community.

How to Get to Luganville

Reaching Luganville, the second-largest town in Vanuatu located on Espiritu Santo island, is easier than you might think. Air Vanuatu offers regular flights from Port Vila, the capital city. These flights take about 50-55 minutes and operate several times daily.

If you’re coming from abroad, you can also find direct flights from Brisbane, Australia to Luganville. These international connections make accessing this tropical paradise quite convenient.

Once you’ve decided to visit, it’s best to call Air Vanuatu directly for reservations. According to recent information, they aren’t accepting online bookings right now.

When you arrive in Luganville, taxis are your best friend for getting around town. They’re especially helpful if you want to avoid walking in the summer heat or during tropical downpours. Local buses also service the area if you’re looking for a more economical option.

Many visitors heading to popular accommodations like Barrier Beach Resort or The Espiritu beachfront resort arrange airport transfers directly through their hotels. This takes the hassle out of figuring out transportation when you first arrive.

If you’re arriving via cruise ship, consider organizing a cab or mini-van once in port. This allows you to explore Espiritu Santo island at your own pace rather than being tied to organized tour schedules.

Nanda Blue Hole Travel Guide — Nanda Blue Hole

What to See in Luganville

Luganville offers a mix of stunning natural beauty and fascinating historical sites. The SS President Coolidge wreck is a must-visit for diving enthusiasts. This WWII shipwreck has become one of the most accessible large wrecks in the world.

For an unforgettable swimming experience, visit one of the famous Blue Holes. Riri Blue Hole and Nanda Blue Hole feature crystal clear, vibrant blue water surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. These natural swimming pools are perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

Million Dollar Point tells an incredible story of post-war waste. You can snorkel or dive among dumped military equipment from WWII, seeing jeeps, bulldozers, and other vehicles now covered in colorful coral.

The Millennium Cave adventure combines trekking, swimming, and rock scrambling through magnificent landscapes. The tour takes you through local villages, bamboo forests, and impressive rock formations.

Mount Hope Waterfall offers a refreshing break from the tropical heat. The short hike rewards you with beautiful cascading water and natural pools perfect for swimming.

Don’t miss experiencing traditional water music performances, where local women create rhythmic sounds by slapping and moving through water.

Luganville’s beaches provide excellent snorkeling opportunities with vibrant coral gardens just offshore. You’ll spot colorful tropical fish while exploring the warm waters.

Seafood lovers will enjoy fresh catches at local restaurants, with plenty of vegan options also available in many establishments.

Read our articles on the best things to do in Luganville, Vanuatu and best restaurants in Luganville, Vanuatu for even more ideas!

Where to Stay in Luganville

Read our article on hotels near Luganville, Vanuatu for the best options for your stay. Here’s a short list of some options:

If you’re looking to stay in a vacation home, apartment, BnB, or VRBO in Luganville, Vanuatu, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.

History of Luganville

Luganville’s history is deeply rooted in the indigenous Melanesian people who first settled on Espiritu Santo island thousands of years ago. These early inhabitants built communities that thrived long before European contact.

The quiet island life changed dramatically during World War II when Luganville became a significant Allied military base. American forces arrived in large numbers, transforming the small settlement into a bustling military hub almost overnight.

The wartime construction included airfields, roads, and port facilities that formed the foundation of the modern town you can visit today. Many of these structures still stand as reminders of this pivotal time in Luganville’s development.

After the war ended, most military personnel left, but the infrastructure they built remained. This military legacy shaped Luganville into becoming Vanuatu’s second-largest urban center.

When you walk around town, you’ll notice how the war’s influence is still visible in both architecture and local stories. The town that inspired James A. Michener’s famous “Tales of the South Pacific” carries its history proudly.

Today, Luganville blends its wartime past with traditional Melanesian culture. You’ll find this mix fascinating as you explore local markets where copra, coffee, and cacao—all important exports—are traded alongside traditional crafts.

Luganville 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Luganville! Look for deals here:
Luganville Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs