Itineraries — Isle of Pines

The Isle of Pines is the absolute signature stop on a trip to New Caledonia — what Bora Bora represents for French Polynesia, at half the budget. Located 100 km south-east of Nouméa (25 min Air Calédonie flight from Nouméa-Magenta, or 2 h 30 Betico ferry from Port Moselle), it is a 152 km² island combining some of the most beautiful landscapes in the South Pacific: 60 m tall endemic columnar pines rising above white-sand beaches, UNESCO-listed turquoise lagoon, almost surreal Oro Natural Pool, Upi Bay studded with emerging limestone rocks. James Cook, who named it in 1774, was not mistaken.

For a signature stay, plan 3 to 4 nights minimum: 1 day for the Oro Natural Pool (absolute must-do, accessible after 30 min walk through the columnar pine forest), 1 day for the traditional sailing pirogue excursion in Upi Bay (signature cultural experience, €60-130/person depending on formula), and 1-2 days of relaxation on the Kuto and Kanuméra beaches or island tour by scooter (Queen Hortense caves, Saint-Joseph bay, communard convict memorial at Ouro). For a honeymoon, plan 5 nights to include diving and more relaxation.

The signature accommodation remains Le Méridien Île des Pins (5*, Oro Bay, €350-700/night) — the hotel most appreciated by couples, with direct access to the Oro Natural Pool and UNESCO lagoon. Recommended alternative: Oure Tera Beach Resort (4*, Kanuméra Bay, €250-450/night).