As the capital city of New Caledonia, Noumea has a lot to offer its guests. A strange combination of European and Pacific Island culture makes for an entirely unique experience. Guests in Noumea will enjoy a whimsical stay that involves colourful trains, colourful fish and wonderful people. Visitors can have the best of both worlds with an incredible climate, beautiful tropical beaches, as well as hints of French culture.
Take the time to discover the unique history of Noumea. Explore the unique architecture of local landmarks, relax on the beach, visit museums and take in a city that's unlike any other in the South Pacific.
Getting in and around Noumea
Noumea Airport
The La Tontouta International Airport is small but it does offer services from several nearby countries. Australia, New Zealand and Vanuatu all offer services to Noumea via their national carriers. The La Tontouta International Airport is about 50 kilometres from Noumea, which is an easy driving distance.
Noumea Transport
The Noumea city bus system is great for getting around Noumea. It's affordable and efficient and you won't have to worry about parking. Taxis are also available in Noumea, but they are traditionally much more expensive that the public bus system. There is also a charming little train, called the Tchou Tchou Train, which goes to all of the major tourist attractions.
Noumea Car Hire
Noumea car hire is a good option for travellers who wish to travel a bit outside the city. Car hire companies are in abundance in Noumea, both at the airport and around town.
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Noumea accommodation
Noumea accommodation is rich with luxurious and high-end hotels. You'll have no problem planning the vacation of your dreams in Noumea. You can enjoy sleeping in a bungalow that hovers over the ocean or a high-rise luxury hotel. But if your budget can't withstand such luxurious accommodation, there are a few budget hotels in Noumea that are quite nice.
Luxury
DoubleTree by Hilton is the ultimate island hotel located on a tropical islet with elegant over-water bungalows.
Ramada Hotel & Suites is luxurious with modern furnishings and has a bar, restaurant and pool. The Hotel Ramada Plaza is luxurious with rustic yet modern furnishings and impressive architectural design.
The Coral Palms Island Resort is the ultimate island hotel with elegant over-water bungalows that are chic and romantic.
Mid-range
Le Méridien Noumea Resort & Spa is a well-known hotel brand where travellers know they can expect luxurious rooms and expert service.
Nouvata has all of the island charm of its sister resorts but is designed with the budget-conscious traveller in mind. Le Meridien is a hotel brand that we can trust and travellers know they can expect luxurious rooms and expert service.
The Nouvata Park Hotel has all of the island charm of its sister resorts but is designed with the budget conscious traveller.
Budget
Hotel Beaurivage has everything you want without the hefty price tag. A comfortable hotel that's close to everything.
Noumea Youth Hostel conveniently overlooks the city and has a range of comfortable dorm and private rooms to choose from. The Surf Novotel has everything you want and without such a hefty price tag. A nice hotel that's great for families.
Lantana Beach Hotel is conveniently located right on the beach and is beloved for its friendly service and comfortable rooms.
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Things to do in Noumea
For such a small island, there are many of things to do in New Caledonia's Noumea. Travellers of all ages will have no problem staying occupied as there are adventures for adults and attractions for kids. Tailor your trip for a relaxing vacation or hit the trails and the water for an adventure-filled experience in Noumea.
Tchou Tchou Train is a charming way to get around and see the sights in Noumea. The colourful train is perfect for kids and adults alike. See the sights at Noumea on this two-hour train ride, with stops along the way.
Museum of Maritime History. One of Noumea's most popular museums, the Museum of Maritime History goes back thousands of years in maritime history. You can also see wreckage from ships that have met their end at Noumea's reef.
New Caledonia National Aquarium. Experience the spectacular beauty of the Noumea reef without ever getting wet at the New Caledonia National Aquarium. See fluorescent coral, colourful fish, sharks and eels at this awesome aquarium.
Noumea beaches. Noumea is famous for its beautiful beaches and there are many ways to pass a day at the beach. Anse Vata, Pointe Magnin and Baie des Citrons are among the most popular beaches, where swimming, sun bathing, windsurfing and diving are favourite pastimes.
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Day trips in and around Noumea
Island adventures. Near the west lagoon, there are numerous islands that are fun to explore. Take a day trip to Amédée Island to see the charming lighthouse and gorgeous reef. The Isle of Pines also makes for a fun day trip.
Noumea City Tours. City tours are a fun and relaxing way to see some of the historic architecture and minor sights in the area.
The Zoological and Forest Park. The Michel Corbasson Zoological and Forest Park is a forest that's popular for relaxing walks and beautiful views of the coast. You can also catch glimpses of the horned parakeet and the flightless cagou.
Ouen Toro. From the summit of Ouen Toro hill, you'll find incredible panoramic views of Noumea. Make a day of it with a hike to the top of Ouen Toro and finish with a swim at Anse Vata.
Place des Cocotiers. A day at the Place des Cocotiers is a great activity to follow a few intense days of travelling, swimming or hiking. Take relaxing walks in this beautiful garden centre and enjoy a bit of impromptu shopping at nearby stores or a relaxing meal at a cafe.
Blue River Provincial Park is a fantastic spot for travellers that love the great outdoors. Take a few days to go camping and hiking in this beautiful wildlife reserve.
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