Isle of Pines, New Caledonia
With radiant turquoise waters hiding a wealth of colorful corals and fish below, Isle of Pines is a wonderful place to dive and explore. Although this breathtaking island has been nicknamed "the closest island to Paradise," it once served as a penal colony to thousands of French deportees.
Pottery found on the island dates back to 1500 B.C., although the discovery of the island is most often attributed to Captain James Cook, who sailed by during a voyage to New Zealand in the 18th century. Cook named the island after its towering native pines, but he never set foot on land, presumably threatened by the sight of smoke rising above the trees.
The great explorer missed out on some of the most fascinating treasures ashore. From the tiniest endemic creatures to the far-reaching views offered by its highest peak, Isle of Pines is a unique island destination with plenty to discover.
Points of Interest
- Notre Dame de l'Assomption Catholic Church
- Grotto of Queen Hortense
- Isle of Pines Penal Colony
- Pic Nga
- St. Joseph's Bay
- St. Maurice Bay
- Le Meridien Resort
- Turtle Bay
A Glimpse of our Island (Unguided)
- St. Maurice Bay
- Notre Dame de l'Assomption Catholic Church
- Isle of Pines Penal Colony
This unguided bus tour visits some of the most important and picturesque historical sites including the French convict prison, spectacular white-sand Kuto Beach and stops briefly at Brush Island lookout to view this spectacular island decorated with tall pine trees.
Moderate Activity
AUD$49.95
Island Legacy
- Grotto of Queen Hortense
Explore the islands most notable sites and discover the rich heritage of Isle of Pines and its people.
Moderate Activity
AUD$84.95
Ruins in Paradise
- Isle of Pines Penal Colony
Your local guide will reveal dark secrets from the past as you explore some of the remaining structures and ruins of French prison settlement from more than 100 years ago.
Moderate Activity
AUD$89.95
Moro Island Lagoon Explorations
- St. Maurice Bay
Explore Moro Island Lagoon and discover its hidden treasures with a local guide.
Strenuous Activity
AUD$144.95
Turtle Bay Encounter and Swim
- St. Maurice Bay
- Turtle Bay
Join your local guide on a scenic boat exploration around the Turtle Bay.
Strenuous Activity
AUD$149.95
Island Escape and Swim
Take a two-minute walk to Kanumera Bay, join a small local boat with guide and explore the clear waters on the Brush Island plateau. Turtles and stingrays are often seen in these clear, pristine waters.
Strenuous Activity
AUD$149.95
Traditional Outrigger Canoe Experience
- St. Joseph's Bay
Board the canoe and sail in the direction of Upi Bay where majestic limestone rocks emerge from the sea.
Strenuous Activity
AUD$149.95
A Day at Le Meridien Resort
- Le Meridien Resort
One of the best ways to spend your day on Isle of Pines is at La Méridien resort.
Easy Activity, Includes meal
AUD$199.95