Isle of Pines, New Caledonia
Join the Isle of Pines family
Isle of Pines boasts some of the world’s whitest beaches flanked by azure waters to one side and palm trees to the other.
Want to find Nemo? He's on holiday on the Isle of Pines, where white-sand beaches are the joy of relaxed holiday makers and a lagoon encircles the island like a jewelled aquamarine necklace. On arrival it's easy to see why Isle of Pines is commonly referred to as the Jewel of the Pacific. Its beauty is simply breathtaking. Formed by volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, the island is now surrounded by a colourful reef, teeming with life.
Why not book a P&O Cruises Shore Tour^ and head to Oro Bay, which is like a gigantic natural aquarium. The Shore Tour begins with a scenic drive and a guided walk through a forest trail. Then plunge in for your own snorkelling time and eyeball angelfish, giant clams and little 'Nemos' (clownfish). It's rush hours on the Isle of Pines, marine style!
Above the water you may opt for our Island Discovery Shore Tour^, which is ideal if you want to try a little of everything. Shop for sandalwood and sarongs at market stalls, explore Vao village, churches and some of the natural grottoes and landmarks of this lovely island.
Isle of Pines is located just 50 kilometres south-east of Grand Terre, New Caledonia’s main island. The most difficult aspect of your visit to the Isle of Pines will be saying goodbye to its sunny skies, friendly faces, warm waters and of course those beautiful beaches.
^ Charges apply to Shore Tours.
Average Temperatures in Isle Of Pines (°C)
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| 26°C |
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22°C |
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23°C |
25°C |
Featured Shore Tours from Isle of Pines
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Island Discovery IP1-000
Tour the Isle of Pines, known as the "Jewel of the Pacific", as your experienced local guide narrates and points out a variety of landmarks and...
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Snorkel the Natural aquarium IP1-010
Join a 20 minute scenic drive past the beautiful white sandy beaches of Kuto Beach and then inland towards Oro Bay, where you will discover the Isle...
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Le Meridien and Natural Aquarium IP1-015
A 25 minute scenic drive will take you past the beautiful white sanded Kuto beach and then inland toward Oro bay on the north-east side of the Isle...
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Lagoon and Islet boating adventure IP1-020
Explore the beautiful lagoon of the Isle of Pines on this unforgettable scenic boat tour.
Starting at the majestic Kanumera bay you will cruise...
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More about Isle of Pines
Docking / Disembarkation
Your P&O Cruises ship will anchor off the Isle of Pines and tender boats will then transfer you ashore.
Taxis
Even though there’s no regular public transport service on the island, there are several local taxis you can use to get around.
Shopping
Local handicrafts, including hats, sarongs (known locally as pareo), bags and other items of clothing are available from small markets and stalls. Some sandalwood products, including the aromatic precious oil derived from the roots and inner wood of the trunk, can also be purchased. Please ensure that the items you purchase do not contravene Australia’s or New Zealand’s strict quarantine laws.
Dining
Food and drinks are occasionally available for purchase ashore in the Isle of Pines. The condition and method of preparation of food and drinks cannot be monitored by P&O Cruises. With that in mind, passengers are advised that if they purchase or consume food they do so entirely at their own risk.
Climate
Situated just north of the Tropic of Capricorn, New Caledonia’s climate is tropical. It is warm and humid from November through to April, but the trade winds temper any extremes. Make sure you stay hydrated and sheltered from the sun.
Credit Cards
Major credit cards and charge cards are accepted in hotels and some shops. There is a bank in Vao, open during local business hours on weekdays. You should considering changing money onboard the ship before heading to the island.
Telephones International and Local
Limited public telephones are available.
What To Wear Ashore
To make your day ashore as enjoyable as possible, wear comfortable, flat soled shoes, lightweight clothes and a hat, and bring along some sunscreen, insect repellent and bottled water. In cooler months, bring a jacket. It’s also a good idea to bring an umbrella. Except on beaches, please cover up when walking on the island (casual clothes, not swimwear).
Shore Tours
There are a few shore tours available for you to get the most out of your time on the Isle of Pines. Subject to availability, shore tours may be pre reserved via
cruise personaliser or booked onboard at the shore tours desk.
Environment
Whatever you decide to do after your visit to the Isle of Pines or any island port of call, please bring your rubbish back to the ship with you – that includes dead camera batteries.
How to book
To take advantage of our fantastic low cost cruises, book now. Visit your travel agent or call 13 24 94 for Australian bookings or 0800 780 716 for New Zealand bookings.
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Note: The information in this page is subject to change without notice. We apologise for any inconvenience, but P&O Cruises cannot accept responsibility for any such alterations. Thank you.