Before visiting New Caledonia, I knew it was close to Australia, I knew there was a French connection and I’d seen a few dreamy photos of turquoise lagoons, but I had no idea how genuinely enjoyable and different it would feel.
This famil with New Caledonia Tourism and our beautiful host Rebecca Marchal was my first time exploring the destination, as I have normally only gotten off a cruise ship for a day and honestly, it surprised me in all the best ways.
The thing that struck me almost immediately was the mix of cultures. It’s not just a pretty island with French cafés dotted along the coast.
It’s this fascinating blend of laid-back island life, Melanesian tradition and European elegance – and somehow, it all just works.
Melissa (above, second from left)
One moment you’re eating one of many different croissants at a breakfast that wouldn’t feel out of place in Paris and the next you’re learning about the Kanak customs from a local guide at one of the beautiful resorts we stayed at.
That contrast and diversity made the trip feel richer and more memorable than your typical island escape.
What I enjoyed most was the variety of experiences you can have in such a short space of time. We were never in transit long – everything is close and accessible – but every day felt completely fresh.
One morning I was dipping my toes in some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen, swimming alongside turtles and schools of fluorescent fish. That afternoon, I was exploring the local towns, restaurants and clubs.
My ultimate favourite was Amédée Island; we got to experience the ferry ride to the most beautiful waters, a relaxing feel and the culture of dancing and traditional foods.
This was a true standout for me. It’s got that magical, untouched feel – white silica beaches, impossibly blue water and beautiful tall trees lining the shore.
I’ve been to a lot of islands across the Pacific and Southeast Asia but something about Amédée feels cleaner, more serene. There’s no one trying to sell you trinkets, no beach clubs pumping music. It’s just you, the sea and this feeling of being somewhere truly special.
Relaxing on a sun lounger on the shore and then snorkelling while surrounded by coral and stillness was one of those pinch-me travel moments I won’t forget.
Back on the mainland, I loved how the landscape changed as we moved through different regions.
The west coast of Grande Terre, in particular, was lush and dramatic, with misty hills and pockets of rainforest.
Staying in Bourail and in the peacefulness and serenity of such a big resort as the Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort was divine. We got to do the resort inspection by bicycle, which was so much fun and unique.
We stopped in at a local distillery on our way to Noumea, where the owners were warm and curious, and while not everyone spoke English, a smile and a few French words went a long way.
I really enjoyed how unpolished it felt in places – not run-down, but authentic. It didn’t feel like a destination trying to impress tourists. It felt like a place just being itself.
Nouméa was a great place to ease into the local rhythm. There’s a relaxed, beachy feel to the city, but also enough cafés, boutiques and museums to give it some cultural weight.
I found myself sitting in a waterfront bar one evening with a local beer in hand, watching kite surfers catch the last of the afternoon breeze and thinking: why haven’t more Aussies discovered this?
The food deserves a mention too. I was expecting French, of course, and it was excellent, but I wasn’t prepared for how well it blended with local island produce.
Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, coconut with everything. Meals felt indulgent but grounded. I didn’t once crave anything from home, which says a lot.
From a travel agent’s perspective, I’d say New Caledonia is a fantastic alternative for clients who want something different from the usual Bali-Fiji-Vanuatu rotation.
It’s ideal for couples, families, the young and old, soft adventurers, culture-seekers and foodies.
The direct flights with Aircalin were outstanding; it was the first time I have flown with them and I will be promoting them a lot more as both service and food were amazing, while the shared time zone makes it super appealing, especially for short breaks or twin-centre holidays.
What I took away from this trip was a feeling of calm and clarity. It’s rare to go somewhere that makes you feel lighter just by being there. New Caledonia gave me that. It surprised me with its beauty, but even more so with its depth, its warmth and its sense of place.
I’d go back in a heartbeat and I think a lot of Aussies and my clients would too if they knew what was waiting just a couple of hours away.
https://au.newcaledonia.travel/
