Home to the capital, Port Vila, Efate is Vanuatu’s main island and where the majority of international flights land. It’s also the perfect starting point for your family holiday.
What makes Efate special? Well, Efate is where Vanuatu comes to life. From Port Vila’s colourful markets and waterfront dining to cascading waterfalls, blue lagoons, reef-fringed snorkelling spots and day-trip out to the outer islands, Efate gives you a taste of Vanuatu all in the one spot. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, giving families an easy way to experience the best of Vanuatu in one place while still enjoying the convenience of a nice hotel.
Let’s take a look at some of the things you can do on Efate in Vanuatu.
Fun things to do in Efate, Vanuatu
Swim under a waterfall at Mele Cascades
Mele Cascades is a beautiful series of clear natural pools in Efate, Vanuatu that terrace up the hillside, eventually culminating in an impressive 35m waterfall that flows into a natural plunge pool. You can swim in the waterfall pool, and in numerous other pools just below it, as well as in a series of pools at the entrance to the cascades. At the entrance, you’ll also find toilets, change rooms, a cafe and some picnic tables in a nice garden setting.
The pools at the entrance are more suited to those with much younger kids as you need to hike for around 20 minutes, then wade through water and use a rope to pull yourself up some slippery rocks to reach the top waterfall pool.
Also, there is a ‘second entry fee’ payable if you want to visit this top waterfall as it’s not owned by the same group. So you’ll need to make sure you have plenty of cash before you begin your hike, as a little way into it, you’ll be stopped and asked to pay yet again. The cost was not clear or consistent when we visited, but it was at least another AUD$40 per adult in addition to what we paid at the entrance.
We accepted the entrance fees for what it was and had a great half-day in this beautiful location in Efate, Vanuatu.
Not done with swimming at waterfalls?
Not done swimming at waterfalls yet? Try Lololima Falls, another treasure on Efate, Vanuatu. This stunning cascade is far quieter and features caves hidden behind sheets of water and natural swimming pools with views over the valley below. It’s on private property, so you’ll need to book through Vanuatu Ecotours, who will chaperone you and show you all the best bits!
Swing into the Blue Lagoon
One of Efate, Vanuatu’s most iconic spots, the Blue Lagoon is a natural swimming hole with a distinct blue colour to the water. People rave about the colour, but after visiting Santo’s Blue Holes on a previous trip, I was a little let down. It’s still worth the visit, though! It’s a family favourite for swimming, rope swings, and floating the day away.
As you would expect, it’s quite busy if you’re visiting on a cruise ship day, but this also brings a livelier vibe with plenty of people using the rope swings to hurl themselves into the water. There are seats dotted around the lagoon and also a small cafe that sells snacks and hot chips.
Many people visit the Blue Lagoon via a tour that also includes a visit to Eden on the River (see below).
Tube down Eden on the River
This family-friendly attraction in Efate, Vanuatu has it all and is a personal favourite. Tubing on the river, tropical mini-golf, gardens, walking trails and even a playground for the kids. There are also suspended bridges through the rainforest and a mini zipline. It’s a great spot to spend half a day with kids of all ages.
The staff are very friendly and there is a cafe in a nice garden setting for afterwards when everyone has worked up an appetite.
Swim at a bucket-list beach
Eton Beach is a firm favourite in Efate, Vanuatu for crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. A freshwater stream meets the ocean here and you’ll also find picnic shelters and toilets, with a small entrance fee to support the local village. It’s not too far away from the Blue Lagoon, so it’s worth combining the two in the same day trip if you’re short on time.
Visit the Port Vila Waterfront Markets
Colourful fruit, fresh veggies, handmade crafts, and local snacks – Port Vila’s main market is the heart of Efate, Vanuatu. Grab cassava chips or some nuts for the kids, buy a souvenir, and stock up on groceries if you’re staying somewhere self-catered. It’s the perfect way to get a taste of Ni-Vanuatu culture.
Zipline through the jungle
If you’ve got adventurous kids, the Vanuatu Jungle Zipline in Efate is a thrill. Glide 80 metres above the rainforest canopy with panoramic views of Port Vila and the Mele Cascades. It’s safe, suitable for most ages, and takes about 3 hours – leaving plenty of time to relax back at your resort afterwards.
Take a day trip to Pele Island
For a slower pace and a glimpse of village life, hop over to Pele Island (book through Vanuatu Ecotours). Tours include a short boat ride, time to wander through villages, snorkelling in the protected reef, and a traditional lunch. Dolphins sometimes join the boat ride across, and the warm welcome from island families makes it a truly memorable day.
>>> If you love the idea of getting off the main island, don’t miss our guide to Espiritu Santo and Tanna Island (coming soon).
Visit Hideaway Island & the Underwater Post Office
Just off Mele Bay in Efate, Vanuatu, Hideaway Island is easily reached by ferry. It’s a marine sanctuary, so the snorkelling here is incredible. Don’t miss the chance to send a waterproof postcard from the world’s only underwater post office – it’s such a novelty.
Don’t miss the snorkelling opportunities
Efate is a snorkeller’s dream, with options for all ages. For beginners, Eton Beach has a protective reef that keeps waters calm. More experienced snorkellers will enjoy Hideaway Island or heading out to the reefs near Pele. If you’re up for a bit of a splurge on boutique accommodation, we stayed at Kooyu Villas (read our review >>here<<) and the snorkelling directly out front was fantastic for families!
See Efate’s back roads by buggy
Want to explore Efate’s back roads and jungle? Book a buggy tour! They’re bumpy, muddy, and a whole lot of fun – best suited to families with kids over five. It’s also a fun way to visit the Blue Hole and Eden on the River, in which you can spend an hour at each on this tour.
Efate is more than just the gateway to Vanuatu
Efate, Vanuatu is a destination packed with natural beauty, adventure, and cultural charm. From swimming in waterfalls and blue holes to day trips on tiny islands, there are endless things to do in Efate that make it perfect for families.
FAQs about Efate, Vanuatu
Yes! Efate is the most accessible island in Vanuatu and offers a mix of adventure in natural and relaxation. From waterfalls and blue holes to colourful markets and day trips to smaller islands, it’s a great introduction to Vanuatu and perfect for families.
Plan to spend at least 3–5 days on Efate to see the highlights like Mele Cascades, Blue Lagoon, Hideaway Island, and the markets. If you want to add in day trips or more relaxed downtime, a full week is ideal.
Absolutely. Efate is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Vanuatu, with calm beaches, safe snorkelling spots, plenty of cultural activities, and attractions designed for kids like Eden on the River and buggy tours.
You can hire a car, hop on local ‘B’ buses, or book tours through your accommodation. Hiring a car gives you the most flexibility, especially for visiting beaches and the Blue Lagoon.
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