Best island escapes from Australia

Crystal-clear waters, swaying palm trees, warm sand between your toes and golden sunsets – does your perfect holiday look something like this? There’s absolutely nothing quite like the feeling of leaving everyday life behind and escaping to a tropical destination, where every day brings a chance to relax by the ocean, explore breathtaking landscapes and discover a new culture. 

Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway at a luxury beach resort, a fun family island holiday, underwater adventures among colourful reefs, world-class waves or quiet moments on secluded beaches, there’s an island escape to suit every travel style. So, to help you find the perfect match for your next trip, we’ve compared some of the best island destinations you can easily reach with Virgin Australia. 

Let’s dive in!

How to choose the right island escape

Let’s be honest, the right island escape is the one that matches the kind of holiday you’re dreaming of. 

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with family or chasing your next adventure, thinking about the experiences you want most is the best place to start.

For some travellers, the dream island escape might mean a romantic getaway on a private island in Fiji, where days are spent relaxing by the water and enjoying delicious local food. For others, it could be discovering a less-travelled destination like Tanna in Vanuatu, where volcanic landscapes meet unique local culture and traditions. And for adventure seekers, catching waves along Fiji’s Coral Coast or swimming with manta rays in Bali might be the perfect fit.

So, to help you find the perfect destination for your next trip, we’ve selected nine incredible island escapes that offer something for every type of traveller, from families and couples to adventure seekers, surf lovers and culture enthusiasts.

The best island escapes
 

1. Nusa Penida, Bali, Indonesia

Why visit?

Located off Bali’s southeast coast, around a 40-minute fast boat trip from Sanur, Nusa Penida feels worlds away from Bali’s busy streets and famous beach clubs. Known for its towering limestone cliffs, turquoise bays, and rugged natural beauty, Nusa Penida offers a unique island escape for travellers looking to explore a quieter, more rugged side of Bali. 

Who is it best for?

Nusa Penida is perfect for adventure travellers, couples, photographers and nature lovers looking to explore a more remote side of Bali. It’s especially popular with travellers who enjoy scenic hikes, snorkelling, diving and discovering spectacular viewpoints.

Families with older children (8+) may also enjoy the island’s natural wonders, although some roads and walking tracks can be challenging, so it’s worth planning activities carefully.

What are the best things to do?

• Swim with manta rays: Take a snorkelling or diving trip to Manta Point for the chance to swim alongside these incredible marine animals in their natural environment all year round.
• Explore Nusa Penida’s coastline: Visit iconic viewpoints such as Kelingking Beach and Diamond Beach for some of Bali’s most spectacular ocean views.
• Discover hidden beaches and natural pools: Explore Atuh Beach, a stunning white-sand cove surrounded by towering cliffs, and Tembeling Natural Pool, a hidden jungle oasis with crystal-clear pools overlooking the ocean. 
• Go snorkelling at Crystal Bay: Discover colourful coral, tropical fish like butterfly fish and, from July to October, the chance to spot mola mola (ocean sunfish).
• Hike to Guyangan Waterfall: Follow the famous Blue Stairs down Nusa Penida’s dramatic cliffs to discover a natural spring, waterfall and unique coastal views. 

Don't miss

• Kelingking Beach: This is Nusa Penida’s most iconic spot, famous for its T-rex-shaped cliff formation and incredible views over the turquoise coastline. 
• Broken Beach and Angel’s Billabong: Two of Nusa Penida’s most iconic coastal landmarks, featuring a giant natural ocean arch, a turquoise tidal pool and towering cliffs overlooking the sea.
• Crystal Bay: One of the island’s best-known snorkelling and diving spots, offering clear waters, colourful marine life and the possibility of spotting manta rays or the elusive mola mola depending on the season (July to October).

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Nusa Penida is during the dry season from May to October, when sunny days and calmer seas create ideal conditions for exploring the island’s dramatic cliffs, beaches and marine life. From July to October, the waters around Nusa Penida also become a hotspot for spotting mola mola (oceanic sunfish), making this a particularly exciting time for divers. 

Note that July and August are the busiest months, so if you’re looking for great weather with fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May, June, September or October.

You’ll find more information about Bali’s weather in our Bali’s Dry Season: Visit and Weather Guide.

Getting there

The nearest Virgin Australia gateway is Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). From the airport, you can reach Sanur Harbour by car (around 30–45 minutes depending on traffic), then take a fast boat to Nusa Penida, which usually takes around 40–60 minutes or a public ferry, which can take up to 90 minutes.

2. Gili Islands, Indonesia

Why visit?

Nusa Penida attracts travellers chasing dramatic landscapes, cliffside walks and adventurous exploration, whereas the Gili Islands, located just off the north-west coast of Lombok, offer a more relaxed island experience where days are spent unwinding on white-sand beaches and cycling between palm-lined paths. 

Made up of three small islands (Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno), the Gili Islands offer three distinct experiences, each with its own personality. 

Gili Trawangan is the social hub, known for its beachfront bars, restaurants, pool and foam parties, making it the best choice for travellers who enjoy meeting people and having plenty of options after dark.

Gili Air combines a laid-back island atmosphere with plenty of activities, from snorkelling and swimming to yoga and exploring the island’s quiet village paths, making it a popular choice for families, couples and travellers who want a little bit of everything.

Lastly, Gili Meno is the most peaceful of the three, with quiet beaches, romantic sunsets and a slower pace that appeals to honeymooners, couples and travellers looking to truly disconnect. 

With no cars or motorbikes, life on the Gili Islands moves at a slower pace, making it the perfect place to disconnect and enjoy tropical living.

Who is it best for?

The Gili Islands are ideal for couples, honeymooners, snorkellers, divers and travellers looking for a laid-back tropical destination, with options ranging from peaceful beach escapes to lively nights out. Gili Meno is particularly popular with couples looking for a quiet, romantic getaway, while Gili Trawangan is perfect if you’re after a more social atmosphere, with restaurants, beach bars, clubs, and sunset spots.

Families will particularly enjoy Gili Air, with its calm waters, easy snorkelling and family-friendly activities. 

What are the best things to do?

• Swim with sea turtles: One of the Gili Islands’ most memorable experiences is getting in the water with gentle green sea turtles. Head to Turtle Heaven off Gili Meno or Turtle Point on Gili Trawangan for the chance to spot these incredible creatures close to shore.
• Discover the underwater Nest sculptures: Located off the coast of Gili Meno, BASK Nest is an underwater installation featuring 48 life-sized human sculptures that have become an artificial reef and offer a unique snorkelling and diving experience.
• Explore dive sites: With more than 20 dive sites around the islands, the Gilis are a favourite destination for divers of all levels. Explore colourful coral reefs, shipwrecks and marine life at popular spots such as Shark Point (Gili Trawangan) and the Bounty Wreck off Gili Meno.
• Cycle around the islands: With no cars or motorbikes, cycling is one of the best ways to explore the Gilis, from quiet beaches and coconut-lined paths to local villages and seaside cafés.
• Island hopping between Gili Trawangan, Gili Meno and Gili Air: Each island has its own personality and charm, so if you’re staying for a few days, it’s worth exploring all three. Regular boats connect Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno, with journeys between the islands usually taking just a few minutes. 

Don’t miss

• Gili Meno Turtle Point: This is one of the best places in the Gili Islands to swim with green sea turtles in their natural environment. The waters here are calm and shallow, making it a fantastic activity for both beginners and experienced swimmers.
• BASK Nest underwater sculptures: Located off Gili Meno, this unique underwater art installation features 48 human sculptures surrounded by coral growth. It’s one of the most unusual snorkelling and diving experiences in the region.
• Ride a cidomo around the islands: Experience the traditional horse-drawn carts that are part of everyday life in the Gili Islands. These colourful local carriages offer a unique way to explore the beaches, villages and coastline at a slower pace. 

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Gili Islands is from May to October, when sunny days and calm seas create the perfect conditions for beach days and swimming. The water is also at its clearest during these months, giving you the chance to spot green sea turtles close to shore as they swim in their natural habitat. 

Getting there

The nearest Virgin Australia gateway is Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS). From Bali, you can easily travel by fast boat from ports such as Padang Bai, Sanur or Serangan, with the journey usually taking around 1.5-3 hours depending on the departure point and sea conditions.

3. Lombok, Indonesia

Why visit?

Located just east of Bali across the Lombok Strait, Lombok is a larger Indonesian island known for its volcanic mountains and rich local culture. Compared with the dramatic coastlines and cliffside adventures of Nusa Penida or the turquoise waters and laid-back lifestyle of the Gili Islands, Lombok offers a chance to experience a deeper side of Indonesia, from trekking Mount Rinjani, an iconic active volcano, to visiting traditional Sasak villages and discovering the customs, crafts and traditions that shape Lombok’s culture. Many describe Lombok as the Bali of several years ago, with more untouched landscapes and fewer tourists.

Who is it best for?

Lombok is ideal for travellers looking for a mix of adventure, nature and traditional island culture. 

What are the best things to do?

• Explore the beaches of the south coast: Spend a day discovering the island’s famous beaches, from the white sands and crystal-clear waters of Tanjung Aan Beach to the peaceful bays of Mawun Beach. 
• Visit traditional Sasak villages: Discover Lombok’s unique culture at villages such as Sade Village, where you can see traditional Sasak houses, learn about local weaving traditions and experience the island’s heritage through the daily lives of the local community.  
• Hike Mount Rinjani: If you love adventure, take on one of Indonesia’s most spectacular volcano hikes, climbing Mount Rinjani for breathtaking views over Lombok, the surrounding islands and the turquoise waters below. 
• Chase waterfalls: Take a trip to Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls, where jungle trails and cool mountain streams will offer a refreshing escape from the island’s beaches.  
• Surf world-class waves: Head to Kuta Lombok, the island’s famous surf town, to discover some of Lombok’s best breaks, from beginner-friendly beaches such as Selong Belanak to more challenging waves for experienced surfers. 

Don’t miss

• Pura Lingsar: One of Lombok’s most fascinating cultural sites, this unique temple complex showcases the island’s mix of Balinese Hindu and Sasak traditions and offers insight into Lombok’s diverse heritage. 
• Mount Rinjani National Park: Home to Indonesia’s second-highest volcano, offering unforgettable hiking experiences and spectacular views. 
• Sade Village: A traditional Sasak village where travellers can learn about Lombok’s local culture, see traditional houses and discover the island’s unique heritage. 

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Lombok is from May to October, with the island’s drier months offering the best conditions for trekking Mount Rinjani. It's also a great time to experience Lombok’s culture, with seasonal Peresean performances typically held from around June to October in villages such as Bayan. This centuries-old Sasak stick-fighting tradition offers visitors a unique insight into the island’s history and heritage. 

Getting there

The nearest Virgin Australia gateway is Bali’s Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS), although travellers can also fly directly to Lombok International Airport (LOP) via connecting flights from Bali. Lombok can also be reached from Bali by fast boat from ports such as Padang Bai, with crossings usually taking around 1.5-3 hours depending on the route and sea conditions. A public ferry from Bali is also available and is a more budget-friendly option, although the journey is significantly longer (up to 6 hours). 

4. Yasawa Islands, Fiji

Why visit?

Made up of a chain of volcanic islands surrounded by turquoise lagoons and coral reefs, the Yasawa Islands offer a more remote and untouched side of Fiji. Here, dramatic volcanic peaks meet white-sand beaches, traditional villages sit alongside luxury resorts, and days are spent snorkelling, exploring and embracing the slower rhythm of island life. 

Unlike Fiji’s larger islands, where travellers can explore towns, waterfalls and cultural attractions, the Yasawas are all about secluded beaches, turquoise waters and unique ocean experiences. Whether you’re swimming in crystal-clear lagoons, snorkelling alongside manta rays or sharks or relaxing at a luxury beachfront resort with nothing but the sound of waves around you, the Yasawa Islands offer a true tropical getaway.

Who is it best for?

The Yasawa Islands are ideal for travellers who enjoy remote island escapes that combine relaxation with adventure and a touch of luxury. Couples and honeymooners will love the secluded beaches, romantic sunsets and intimate, luxurious beachfront resorts, while adventure seekers can hike volcanic peaks, explore hidden sea caves and dive with sharks. 

But the Yasawas are also one of the best island escapes for families, with many resorts offering family-friendly activities. 

Note that the longer boat transfers and slower pace are best suited to travellers looking for a relaxed holiday rather than a packed itinerary.

What are the best things to do?

• Hike volcanic peaks: Follow trails on islands such as Waya and Waya Lailai to reach dramatic viewpoints overlooking jagged volcanic landscapes, turquoise lagoons and neighbouring islands.
• Swim with manta rays in their natural environment: Between May and October, the Yasawa Islands become one of Fiji’s best places to spot manta rays. Join a snorkelling trip around areas such as Drawaqa Island for the chance to glide alongside these gentle creatures as they feed in the nutrient-rich waters.
• Explore the Sawa-i-Lau caves: Swim into these famous limestone caves in the northern Yasawas, where crystal-clear blue water and unique rock formations make this one of Fiji’s most popular experiences.
• Visit traditional Fijian villages: Spend time with local communities to experience Fijian hospitality, learn about traditional customs and discover daily island life beyond the resorts. Many villages welcome visitors with a kava ceremony, an important part of Fijian culture.

Don’t miss

• Sawa-i-Lau caves: One of the Yasawa Islands’ most iconic experiences, these ancient limestone caves feature stunning blue waters and are an important cultural site for local communities.
• Manta ray snorkelling: From May to October, the waters around Drawaqa Island become one of Fiji’s best places to see manta rays. Join a snorkelling trip and watch these graceful creatures glide through the water as they feed in their natural environment. 
• Visit Soso Village: Discover traditional Fijian island life in one of the Yasawa Islands’ most well-known villages. Meet local communities, experience Fijian hospitality and learn about customs such as the traditional kava ceremony. 

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Yasawa Islands is during Fiji’s dry season from May to October. During this season, days are sunny, humidity is lower, and ocean conditions are generally calmer for swimming, snorkelling and boat trips.

For wildlife lovers, these months also bring one of the Yasawas’ most memorable experiences: the chance to get in the water with manta rays as they feed in the nutrient-rich channels between the islands. 

Getting there

The nearest Virgin Australia gateway is Nadi International Airport (NAN). From Nadi, travellers can transfer to Denarau Marina, where fast boats depart for the Yasawa Islands. Boat transfers usually take around 2-5 hours, depending on which island you are visiting. Many resorts can also arrange transfers directly from the marina.

5. Coral Coast, Fiji

Why visit?

Stretching along the southern coastline of Viti Levu, Fiji’s largest island, the Coral Coast offers the kind of island escape where surfing, rainforest adventures and authentic Fijian culture come together in one destination. Within a short drive, you’ll be able to move from palm-fringed beaches and famous surfing spots to rainforest adventures and traditional villages. 

With a wide choice of luxurious beachfront resorts, family-friendly activities and outdoor adventures, the Coral Coast is one of the most versatile island escapes in Fiji.

Who is it best for?

The Coral Coast is ideal for families, first-time Fiji visitors and travellers who want a balance of relaxation and adventure. For first-time visitors, it offers an easy introduction to Fiji, with beautiful beaches, comfortable resorts and a wide range of activities all within easy reach. Families will love the calm beaches, easy access to activities and resorts designed for different ages.

It’s also a great choice for adventure seekers and nature lovers, with opportunities to explore coral reefs, rainforest trails, rivers and wildlife. Travellers interested in culture will find plenty of opportunities to connect with local communities and discover traditional Fijian customs.

What are the best things to do?

• Snorkel and dive in Beqa Lagoon: The lagoon is particularly well known among divers for shark encounters, including guided dives with eight different shark species.
• Take a Sigatoka River Safari: Travel deep into Fiji’s interior by jet boat along the Sigatoka River before meeting real kaiviti (Fijians) while visiting a traditional Fijian village. During the safari, you’ll learn more about local customs and traditions.
• Explore Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park: Walk through Fiji’s first national park, where golden dunes meet turquoise waters. The area is also an important archaeological site, with ancient pottery and evidence of early Fijian settlements discovered among the dunes.
• Meet Fiji’s wildlife at Kula Wild Adventure Park: Discover some of Fiji’s native species like the Fiji banded iguanas at this conservation-focused and family-friendly wildlife park.
• Discover local beaches: Spend a day exploring beaches such as Natadola Beach, known for its soft white sand and clear turquoise water, or simply enjoy the scenic coastal drive connecting villages, beaches and resorts along the Coral Coast.
• Catch waves along the Coral Coast: The Coral Coast is also known for its surf breaks. If you’re an experienced surfer, you’ll discover uncrowded reef waves, with many of the best spots located offshore (like Frigates Passage) and accessible by boat or local surf operators. 

Don’t miss

• Beqa Lagoon: If you love the ocean, Beqa Lagoon is a place you’ll want to add to your list. Explore colourful reefs, spot tropical fish and, for experienced divers, get up close with some of Fiji’s most impressive sharks. 
• Sigatoka Sand Dunes National Park: Explore Fiji’s first national park, where golden dunes meet tropical waters and coastal forests. The park is also included on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List.
• Sigatoka River Safari: This river safari combines an exciting river journey with a visit to a traditional village and a chance to learn about everyday Fijian life.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Coral Coast is from May to October, when Fiji’s dry season brings ideal conditions for exploring beaches, reefs and rainforest trails, while also marking the region’s surf season, with more consistent swells attracting surfers to the coast’s reef breaks. And this period is also when many Hindu temples across Fiji hold traditional fire-walking ceremonies, usually around the full moon between May and September. 

Getting there

The nearest Virgin Australia gateway is Nadi International Airport (NAN). From the airport, you’ll be able to reach the Coral Coast by road along the scenic Queens Road coastal highway.

The journey usually takes 1.5-2 hours, depending on your resort’s location. Hiring a car, booking a private transfer or arranging a resort transfer are all popular options for exploring the region.

6. Taveuni, Fiji

Why visit?

Known as Fiji’s “Garden Island”, Taveuni is Fiji’s third-largest island. It’s located in the northeast of the country just across the Somosomo Strait from Vanua Levu. Covered in lush rainforest, Taveuni offers a chance for visitors to step into one of Fiji’s most biodiverse environments, where ancient rainforests, hidden waterfalls and rare wildlife make it a dream destination for nature lovers.  

From exploring lush forest trails to discovering colourful coral reefs and unique species found nowhere else in the world like the silktail or orange dove, Taveuni is an ideal choice for travellers who love exploring the outdoors and discovering unique wildlife. 

Who is it best for?

Taveuni is one of the best island escapes for nature lovers, adventure travellers, hikers and divers.

If you like outdoor adventures, you’ll enjoy exploring rainforest trails and cooling down at waterfalls, while divers and snorkellers come for Rainbow Reef, often nicknamed the soft coral capital of the world. 

What are the best things to do?

• Hike through Bouma National Heritage Park: Follow rainforest trails to the beautiful Tavoro Waterfalls, where you can swim in natural pools, discover three cascading waterfalls and enjoy spectacular views over the coastline. 
• Dive or snorkel Rainbow Reef: Discover one of the world’s most famous dive sites, known for its Great White Wall covered in soft corals and stretching down 30 metres.
• Visit the International Date Line: Stand on the 180th meridian, where a marker near the village of Waiyevo offers the unique experience of being at the boundary between two calendar days.
• Slide down the Waitavala Water Slide: Try this natural rock slide hidden in the rainforest, where flowing water will carry you down smooth volcanic rocks into a freshwater pool.

Don’t miss

• Tavoro Waterfalls in Bouma National Heritage Park: This series of three rainforest waterfalls features beautiful hiking trails and natural swimming pools, all surrounded by lush tropical scenery.
• Rainbow Reef and the Great White Wall: A world-famous diving destination located between Taveuni and Vanua Levu, known for incredible coral formations.
• Waitavala Water Slide: A fun and unique natural attraction where travellers can slide down smooth volcanic rock through the rainforest.

Best time to visit

There’s no best time to visit Taveuni. During Fiji’s dry season from May to October, conditions are ideal for hiking, exploring waterfalls and enjoying clearer visibility for diving and snorkelling.

But the wet season from November to April brings more rainfall, and this is when Taveuni truly earns its nickname as Fiji’s “Garden Island”. The rainforest becomes incredibly lush, waterfalls flow, and the island’s landscapes come to life. What’s more, the months between October and April are a special time to visit for wildlife lovers, when divers and snorkellers have an increased chance of spotting manta rays around Taveuni and the opportunity to witness turtle nesting season. 

Getting there

The nearest Virgin Australia gateway is Nadi International Airport (NAN). From Nadi, travellers can take a domestic flight to Taveuni Airport (TVU), with flights generally taking around 1 hour and 20 minutes. Once on the island, resorts and accommodations can arrange transfers from the airport, with most locations reachable within a short drive.

7. Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu

Why visit?

Located in northern Vanuatu, Espiritu Santo is the country’s largest island and one of the South Pacific’s most rewarding destinations for adventurous travellers. Known for its picture-perfect beaches, crystal-clear freshwater blue holes and fascinating World War II history, this island offers a rare mix of tropical waters and fascinating historical discoveries.

Espiritu Santo still feels unspoilt, with very little development beyond its small towns and villages. Here, travellers can swim in impossibly blue freshwater pools surrounded by rainforest, explore deserted beaches, dive famous shipwrecks and discover traditional villages where local culture remains an important part of everyday life.

If you’re looking for a destination that feels completely off the beaten path, Espiritu Santo offers a unique mix of natural wonders, adventure and World War II history. 

Who is it best for?

Espiritu Santo is ideal for nature lovers, families with older children (8+), honeymooners and travellers looking for an authentic Pacific experience away from the crowds.

And it’s also a divers’ paradise, with experienced divers coming from around the world to explore the famous SS President Coolidge.

What are the best things to do?

• Swim in Espiritu Santo’s famous blue holes: Paddle a kayak down the river to discover Matevulu Blue Hole, one of the island’s spectacular freshwater swimming spots, where you’ll be surrounded by tropical vegetation.
• Relax on Champagne Beach: Spend the day on one of the Pacific’s most beautiful beaches, known for its soft white sand, turquoise water and peaceful surroundings.
• Dive the SS President Coolidge wreck: Explore one of the world’s most famous wreck dives, where an American luxury ocean liner turned World War II troop ship rests 40 metres underwater and is now home to incredible marine life.
• Explore Million Dollar Point: Discover one of Vanuatu’s most unusual historical sites, where thousands of tonnes of military equipment were dumped into the ocean after World War II and can still be seen beneath the water.
• Visit local villages and experience Ni-Vanuatu culture: Meet local communities, learn about traditional customs and discover the island’s strong connection to land, ocean and heritage.
• Explore Millennium Cave: Join a guided adventure through one of Espiritu Santo's most spectacular natural attractions, where you’ll hike through rainforest, cross rivers, explore a huge limestone cave and float downstream beneath towering jungle cliffs. 

Don’t miss

• Matevulu Blue Hole: One of Espiritu Santo’s most famous natural landmarks, this incredibly clear freshwater swimming hole is surrounded by lush jungle and is accessible by a short walk or kayak trip.
• Champagne Beach: A picture-perfect stretch of white sand and turquoise water, often considered one of Vanuatu’s most beautiful beaches.
• SS President Coolidge: One of the world’s top wreck dives, offering experienced divers the chance to explore a fascinating piece of World War II history beneath the surface.

Best time to visit

Espiritu Santo is a fantastic destination to visit year-round. The dry season, from May to October, brings comfortable temperatures, lower humidity and plenty of sunshine, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.

The warmer months, from November to April, transform the island into a lush tropical paradise, with luxuriant rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and fewer visitors. Rain showers are often brief rather than lasting all day, although this period can occasionally bring tropical storms.

And for divers, Espiritu Santo is also an excellent year-round destination, with good underwater visibility, although sea conditions may vary with the weather.

Getting there

The nearest Virgin Australia gateway is Port Vila’s Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) on Vanuatu’s main island of Efate.

From Port Vila, travellers can take a domestic flight to Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON) on Espiritu Santo. The flight takes around 50 minutes.

Once on the island, most attractions can be reached by car, guided tour or organised transfer from Luganville, the island’s main town.

8. Tanna, Vanuatu

Why visit?

Located in southern Vanuatu, Tanna is home to beautiful beaches like many Pacific destinations. But Tanna’s true magic lies beyond the coastline. Here, travellers come to hike through rugged terrain, witness the fiery glow of an active volcano and discover traditional Ni-Vanuatu culture that remains deeply connected to the land. 

The island is best known for Mount Yasur, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, where visitors can watch glowing lava explosions light up the night sky. Beside the volcano, Tanna is home to black-sand beaches, hidden blue caves, lush jungle and traditional villages where local communities continue to live in harmony with nature.

Who is it best for?

Tanna is perfect for adventure travellers, nature lovers and culture seekers looking for an island escape unlike anywhere else in the South Pacific.

It is ideal for travellers who want more than beautiful beaches, with unforgettable experiences such as exploring an active volcano, swimming in hidden caves and learning about traditional Ni-Vanuatu culture.

Families with older children (8+) who love adventure may also enjoy exploring Tanna. However, note that some activities involve long drives on rough roads and are better suited to travellers comfortable with a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

What are the best things to do?

• Watch the fiery eruptions of Mount Yasur: As the sun sets, stand near the crater rim and watch Mount Yasur release glowing lava and bursts of ash into the night sky.
• Swim inside the Blue Cave: Discover one of Tanna’s most magical natural wonders, where a hidden sea cave glows bright blue as sunlight filters through an opening above the water. 
• Experience traditional Tanna culture: Visit a local kastom village like Yakel Village to learn about traditional customs, beliefs, and daily life. 
• Explore Port Resolution and the island’s coastline: Discover one of Tanna’s most scenic coastal areas, with beautiful beaches, coral reefs, snorkelling spots and nearby natural hot springs.

Don’t miss

• Mount Yasur Volcano: This is the experience that draws many travellers. One of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, Mount Yasur allows visitors to get close to the crater and witness volcanic activity glowing against the night sky.
• The Blue Cave: A hidden sea cave where crystal-clear water and beams of sunlight create an incredible natural blue glow. 
• Yakel Village: A fascinating cultural experience where travellers can respectfully meet local communities and learn about traditional Tanna customs, including their connection to nature and ancestral practices.

Best time to visit

Tanna can be visited year-round, although the dry season from May to October is generally considered the best time for exploring the island. With cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and less rainfall, conditions are ideal for hiking, exploring volcanic landscapes, and enjoying outdoor adventures. These months also offer the chance for visitors to spot dugongs in the waters around the island, with June to September considered the best months to spot these incredible mammals. 

From November to April, the island enters its warmer, wetter season, bringing occasional tropical showers and transforming Tanna’s landscapes into a lush paradise. Now, it’s important to note that rainfall is often brief, although tropical storms can occasionally affect travel plans.

As for Mount Yasur, it remains a year-round highlight. However, volcanic activity can change, so if you’re planning to go, make sure to check local conditions and follow safety advice before visiting.

You can find more information about the best times to visit Vanuatu here.

Getting there

The nearest Virgin Australia gateway for Tanna is Port Vila’s Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) on Efate.

From Port Vila, you can then take a domestic flight to Whitegrass Airport (TAH) on Tanna, with flights taking approximately 45 minutes.

Once on the island, most accommodation providers can arrange transfers. Travel times vary depending on where you are staying, with many attractions reached by 4WD due to Tanna’s rugged roads.

9. Hideaway Island, Vanuatu

Why visit?

Located just off the coast of Efate, Vanuatu’s main island and home to the capital city of Port Vila, Hideaway Island offers one of the most relaxing island escapes in Vanuatu. This tiny tropical island is famous for its crystal-clear waters and colourful coral reefs, and is perhaps best known for the world's only underwater post office, where visitors can send waterproof postcards from beneath the sea.

While larger islands such as Espiritu Santo and Tanna are known for their jungles and volcanic landscapes, Hideaway Island is all about slowing down, enjoying the ocean and discovering Vanuatu’s incredible marine life. With calm waters, easy access to coral gardens and a relaxed beach atmosphere, it is one of the easiest ways to experience the beauty of the South Pacific.

Who is it best for?

Hideaway Island is perfect for families, first-time snorkellers, couples, honeymooners and travellers looking for an easy tropical getaway close to Port Vila.

The island is especially popular with visitors who want to try snorkelling or diving for the first time, thanks to its shallow reefs and accessible marine experiences. Families will love the calm waters and fun underwater activities, while couples can enjoy a peaceful day surrounded by tropical scenery.

It is also a great choice for travellers with limited time in Vanuatu who want to experience beautiful beaches and vibrant marine life without having to travel far.

What are the best things to do?

• Send a postcard from the world’s only underwater post office: One of Hideaway Island’s most unique experiences, this underwater mailbox sits several metres below the surface. Visitors can snorkel or dive down to post waterproof postcards that are specially stamped and delivered around the world.
• Snorkel the coral reefs: Explore the clear waters surrounding the island, where colourful coral gardens are home to tropical fish, sea turtles and other marine life. The shallow reefs make it a great option for beginners and families.
• Try scuba diving: Hideaway Island is one of Vanuatu’s best places to discover diving, with beginner-friendly dive sites and easy access to coral reefs. Experienced divers can also explore deeper sites around Efate.
• Explore the underwater world by glass-bottom kayak: For those who prefer to stay dry, glass-bottom kayaks offer a fun way to watch the coral and marine life beneath the surface
• Relax on the island beach: Spend a slow-paced day swimming, enjoying the tropical surroundings and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere of this tiny island paradise.

Don’t miss

• The Underwater Post Office: This is Hideaway Island’s most famous attraction and a truly unique travel experience. Snorkel or dive beneath the surface to send a waterproof postcard from the world’s only underwater post office.
• The Coral Gardens: A beautiful snorkelling area surrounding the island, where clear water, colourful reefs and tropical fish make it easy to discover Vanuatu’s underwater beauty.

Best time to visit

Hideaway Island can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry season from May to October, when temperatures are comfortable, rainfall is lower, and ocean conditions are generally ideal for swimming, snorkelling and diving. From July to October, you’ll also have the chance to spot migrating humpback whales in the waters around Hideaway Island and Mele Bay.

Getting there

The nearest Virgin Australia gateway is Port Vila’s Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) on Efate.

Hideaway Island is one of Vanuatu’s easiest island escapes to reach. From Port Vila, you can take a short road transfer to the coast near Mele Bay, followed by a quick boat ride of just a few minutes across to the island.

Many visitors choose to visit as a day trip from Port Vila, although accommodation is also available on the island for travellers wanting a quieter stay.

Which island holiday is best for you?

Not sure which one of these island escapes is right for your next holiday? Use this quick guide to find the destination that best matches your travel style, whether you’re dreaming of a relaxing beach holiday, an adventurous island experience or an authentic cultural journey.