Port Vila

Things to do and Port Vila attractions

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Port Vila is the capital (and largest) city of Vanuatu and the key Vanuatu destination. This island chain stretches across the South Pacific, near Fiji and the Solomon Islands, north of New Zealand.

What does Port Vila offer the traveler? Why journey to this small city in the heart of the tropics?

You'll find that Port Vila is the best place from which to start your Vanuatu vacation, whether you are planning to enjoy only the island of Efate (where Port Vila sits) or you intend to venture out to the other islands around the city. Here are some of Port Vila attractions.

Shopping and Dining

For international travelers, Port Vila is the closest thing to a major city Vanuatu has. As such, it is the hub of shipping and transportation in the islands, making it the prime place to find great deals and great meals. You'll find that you can enjoy duty free shopping at several area outlets, as well as the local fruit and vegetable market. A trip to Chinatown will give you access to souvenirs, electronics, clothing and more, while you can shop with local vendors for authentic handicrafts from around the islands.

You can also find the best dining in the island in the city. You'll enjoy international cuisine, try a cup of kava, head to the nightclubs and discos downtown or simply enjoy a great meal and a quiet drink at any number of area restaurants.

Things to Do in Port Vila

Port Vila is the best place from which to embark on a snorkeling or scuba tour, as well as the best place from which to reach any number of top beaches around the island. You can sunbathe, swim, dive, kayak and sail right from the city or head around the island for more options.

Make sure that you visit the incredible waterfall, Mêlée Cascades, while you are in town, or head to the golf course (the only championship golf course in the islands) for a challenging round of golf.

Getting to Port Vila

You'll find only two ways to get to Port Vila. You can fly into the Bauerfield international airport, or you can take ship into port. You'll find that flying in and out is the faster of the two methods, though taking a ship or sailboat can be an incredible experience. Visiting the islands around Efate is done in the same way; Air Vanuatu services most of the islands once or twice a week from Efate.

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Port Vila Articles

• Port Vila Attractions - There's more to Port Vila than the regular sand and water. While the town offers great duty-free shopping, cafés and restaurants, if you venture further out you will find Underwater Post Office, Bluewater Island Acquarium, and even horseback riding.
• Port Vila Cafés - There are several locations in Port Vila that will provide you with a coffee break and more. Best known cafés and snack bars in Port Vila are Au Peche Mignon, Refresh Snack and Bar, Jill's Café, and Café Deli.
• Port Vila Markets - Situated in the city's main street, Port Vila market offers an assortment of hancradfted goods, local merchandise, fresh produce, island beef, and seafood to tourists and residents alike.
• Port Vila Restaurants - On you holiday in this tropical paradise you will find many great places to eat. Some of the best known are Tilly's hotel restaurant, Vila Chaumieres French restaurant, Roxy's on the Lagoon, and Café du Village.