The best places to stay in Vanuatu depend on your travel goals: choose Port Vila on Efate for luxury resorts, dining, and accessibility; Espiritu Santo for world-class diving and secluded beaches; or Tanna Island for volcanic adventures and authentic eco-bungalows. Accommodation ranges from budget-friendly guesthouses to exclusive private island retreats.
Vanuatu is an archipelago of 83 islands, but the vast majority of accommodation infrastructure is concentrated on three main islands: Efate, Espiritu Santo, and Tanna. Deciding where to stay in Vanuatu is not just about picking a hotel; it is about choosing the type of experience you wish to have. Whether you are seeking a romantic honeymoon in an overwater villa, a family-friendly holiday in a bustling resort, or an off-grid adventure near an active volcano, understanding the nuances of each island’s hospitality landscape is crucial for a successful trip.
Understanding Accommodation Types in Vanuatu
Before diving into specific locations, it is essential to define the terminology used in the Vanuatu tourism sector. The market is segmented distinctly, and expectations should align with these categories.
The Resort Experience
Resorts in Vanuatu, particularly around Port Vila, operate similarly to Western standards. They offer full amenities including swimming pools, multiple dining options, kids’ clubs, and organized tours. Many are located on private lagoons or small offshore islands accessible by ferry.
Traditional Fare (Bure) and Eco-Lodges
A “Fare” (pronounced far-ay) is a traditional bungalow. These are common on the outer islands like Tanna and Santo. They are often constructed from local timber and thatched roofing. While charming and culturally immersive, they may lack air conditioning or hot water in budget categories. High-end eco-lodges, however, combine this traditional aesthetic with modern luxury.
Self-Contained Apartments
For longer stays or families, self-contained apartments are available primarily in Port Vila and Luganville. These offer kitchens and laundry facilities, allowing travelers to reduce costs by cooking their own meals.
Efate & Port Vila: The Hub of Luxury and Convenience
Efate is the main island and home to the capital, Port Vila. For 80% of travelers, this is where the journey begins and ends. If you are asking where to stay in Vanuatu for the most variety and ease of access, Efate is the answer.
Port Vila Central
Staying in the town center places you within walking distance of markets, duty-free shops, and a plethora of restaurants. Accommodation here is generally vertical—hotels and apartments rather than sprawling resorts. It is ideal for business travelers or those who want to be in the thick of the action.
Havannah Harbour
Located on the north side of Efate, about a 30-minute drive from Port Vila, Havannah Harbour is the premium enclave for honeymooners. The water here is calmer and clearer than the town side. Resorts here are typically adults-only, focusing on privacy and fine dining.
Erakor and Iririki Islands
These are resort islands situated inside the calm waters of Mele Bay, just minutes from the mainland via free 24-hour ferries. They offer the feeling of a remote island getaway while being only minutes from the capital’s infrastructure.
Espiritu Santo: Diving, History, and Seclusion
Espiritu Santo (often just “Santo”) is the largest island geographically but maintains a slower pace than Efate. It is the premier destination for divers (home to the SS President Coolidge wreck) and beach lovers (Champagne Beach).
Luganville
The main town, Luganville, offers functional accommodation. It is less picturesque than Port Vila but serves as a practical base for divers who spend their days underwater. Hotels here are generally mid-range and utilitarian.
The East Coast Road
North of Luganville lies a stretch of coastline featuring boutique resorts and bungalows. This is where you find the iconic “blue holes.” Accommodation here is quieter, often family-run, and sits directly on the water. It is vital to rent a car if you stay here to explore the blue holes and beaches independently.
Aore Island
Just across the channel from Luganville is Aore Island. It hosts several boutique resorts and private holiday homes. It offers a “castaway” vibe with the convenience of a short boat ride to the main town for supplies.
Tanna Island: Adventure and Eco-Tourism
Tanna is wild and rugged. The primary draw is Mount Yasur, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes. Accommodation on Tanna is generally more rustic than Efate or Santo.
White Grass Coast (West Tanna)
Near the airport, the White Grass coast offers the most comfortable accommodation on the island. Here you will find mid-range to upper-mid-range resorts with electricity, Wi-Fi, and swimming pools. It is a 45-minute to 1-hour drive across the island to the volcano.
Near Mount Yasur
For the adventurous, staying in a treehouse or basic bungalow at the foot of the volcano is an unforgettable experience. Be warned: amenities are basic (often shared bathrooms and limited electricity), and ash fall can be an issue depending on wind direction. However, falling asleep to the rumble of the earth is a unique selling point.
Comprehensive Cost Analysis by Budget
Understanding where to stay in Vanuatu requires a clear look at the financials. Vanuatu is generally more expensive than Southeast Asia but can be cheaper than high-end Fiji or Tahiti.
Budget Travelers ($30 – $80 USD per night)
Where to look: Port Vila outskirts, village bungalows on Tanna, backpackers in Luganville.
At this price point, expect shared facilities or very basic private rooms. Air conditioning is rare; ceiling fans are the norm. Breakfast is usually simple (toast and fruit). This tier is perfect for backpackers who plan to spend their money on activities rather than sleep.
Mid-Range ($100 – $250 USD per night)
Where to look: Port Vila hotels, family resorts on Efate, beach bungalows on Santo.
This is the “sweet spot” for families and couples. You can expect air conditioning, private bathrooms, swimming pools, and on-site restaurants. Wi-Fi is generally available in common areas if not in rooms.
Luxury ($350 – $1,000+ USD per night)
Where to look: Havannah Harbour (Efate), Private Islands (Ratua, Eratap).
Vanuatu’s luxury sector offers exceptional value compared to the Maldives. You can expect plunge pools, gourmet dining plans, spa services, and impeccable privacy. Many of these resorts are adults-only.
Booking Platforms vs. Direct Booking
When deciding how to book your stay, the channel you choose can impact both the price and the experience.
Major OTAs (Booking.com, Expedia, Agoda)
Pros: Ease of comparison, verified reviews, flexible cancellation policies.
Cons: High commissions (15-20%) charged to the hotel often mean you don’t get the “best” room available. Some smaller bungalows on Tanna or Santo may not be listed.
Direct Booking
Pros: Many Vanuatu resorts offer “Stay/Pay” deals (e.g., Stay 7, Pay 5) exclusively on their websites. You are also more likely to get free airport transfers or welcome amenities by booking direct.
Cons: Websites for smaller operators can be outdated or lack secure payment gateways, requiring bank transfers.
Local Travel Agents
Do not discount Vanuatu-specialist travel agents (often based in Australia or New Zealand). They have access to wholesale rates and can package accommodation with flights and transfers, often saving you 10-15% on the total trip cost.
Hidden Costs and Financial Considerations
The sticker price of a room is rarely the final cost. To budget accurately, consider these additional expenses associated with where you stay.
Tourism Levy and VAT
Most advertised rates include the 12.5% VAT (Value Added Tax), but it is always worth checking. Some platforms display pre-tax prices to look competitive. Additionally, a small tourism levy is often added to the final bill.
Transfers
Unlike destinations with robust public transport, getting from the airport to your resort in Vanuatu usually requires a private transfer.
Efate: $20-$40 USD per person return.
Santo/Tanna: Can be significantly higher ($50+) depending on the distance, especially for resorts on the outer coasts.
Internet and Wi-Fi
While high-end resorts offer free Wi-Fi, many mid-range and budget accommodations charge for access, or provide it only in the lobby. Data roaming can be expensive. We recommend purchasing a local SIM card (Digicel or Vodafone) at the airport upon arrival for affordable connectivity.
Resort Dining vs. Local Dining
If you stay at a secluded resort (e.g., Havannah Harbour or outer Santo), you are a captive audience for dining. Resort meal prices are comparable to Australian or US restaurant prices. Staying closer to town centers (Port Vila or Luganville) allows you to eat at local markets or cafes for a fraction of the cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best month to visit Vanuatu?
The best time to visit Vanuatu is between April and October. This is the dry season, offering comfortable temperatures (20°C to 28°C) and lower humidity. November to March is the wet season, which brings higher humidity and the risk of tropical cyclones.
Is it better to stay in Port Vila or Santo?
Stay in Port Vila if you want variety in dining, shopping, and easy access to tours. Choose Santo if you prefer a slower pace, world-class diving (SS President Coolidge), and pristine natural beaches like Champagne Beach.
Is Vanuatu expensive for tourists?
Vanuatu is moderately priced. While local produce and market food are cheap, imported goods, alcohol, and resort accommodation are comparable to prices in Australia or New Zealand. Budget travelers should plan for $100/day, while luxury travelers can expect $400+/day.
Do I need to book accommodation in advance?
Yes, especially during the peak season (June-September) and Australian school holidays. The best resorts in Port Vila and Santo often book out months in advance. For Tanna, booking ahead is crucial as capacity is limited.
Is Tanna worth the trip?
Absolutely. Tanna offers one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, Mount Yasur. It provides a raw, authentic cultural experience that is very different from the resort-heavy atmosphere of Port Vila. A 2-3 night stay is usually sufficient.
Are there all-inclusive resorts in Vanuatu?
True “all-inclusive” resorts (covering all meals and drinks) are rare in Vanuatu compared to the Caribbean. However, many resorts offer meal plans (half-board or full-board) that can be added to your room rate.