Planning a trip to Vanuatu's largest island? Start with a comfortable base. Coral Quays Resort sits in Saint Michel, Luganville, surrounded by lush gardens and coconut palms.
Many visitors ask, Is Luganville worth visiting? This simple 4 day plan shows why the answer is yes.
Most guests need 3 to 5 days to see the main sights and dive the wreck, so 4 days is a good fit.
Why Stay Here?
This is a locally run resort, not a chain. The team knows your name and recommends tours they have tried themselves.
Here is what makes the base easy:
- About 8 km from Santo Pekoa International Airport, roughly 10 minutes by car
- About 5 km from Luganville, roughly 5 minutes by car
- A twice daily shuttle into Luganville town
- A tour desk that arranges local trips for you
Day 1: Arrive and Settle In
Ask the team to arrange your airport transfer. Then check in and relax.
- Take a dip in the outdoor swimming pool
- Walk the gardens and enjoy the ocean breezes
- Dine at the Restaurant & Bar, where fresh seafood and local produce are on the menu
- Finish with a handcrafted cocktail under the stars
Day 2: Dive the SS President Coolidge
The SS President Coolidge was a luxury liner turned troop ship that sank off the coast in 1942. It is one of the top wreck dives in the world.
Introductory dives are offered, so you do not need a certificate to try it. Experienced divers are welcome too.
Qualified divers will love the resort's secure dive gear washing, drying and storage. The tour desk can help arrange diving.
Day 3: Blue Holes and Champagne Beach
Spend a day with Santo's freshwater pools and white sand.
- Blue holes: Millennium Cave, Riri Blue Hole and Nanda Blue Hole are the most visited
- Champagne Beach: White sand and calm water, worth the drive from Luganville
Ask the tour desk to book your blue hole trip. Bring your complimentary snorkelling gear, which needs a deposit.
Day 4: Town, History and Markets
Take the shuttle into Luganville for a slower day.
- Visit the Luganville market for tropical fruit and local produce
- Look for old airstrips and wartime relics around town
- Snorkel at Million Dollar Point, where old military vehicles rest on the seabed
During WWII, Luganville was one of the largest Allied bases in the South Pacific. Walking the town makes that history feel real.
Carry cash for markets and small vendors. Shops and services often close earlier than visitors expect.
Who Will Enjoy This Plan?
This itinerary suits many travellers:
- Divers
- Families
- Couples
- Solo travellers
- Friends travelling together
Day visitors are welcome too. The team can also arrange special dietary needs and babysitting.
Practical Tips Before You Go
- Currency: Vanuatu Vatu, though many businesses accept Australian dollars
- Languages: Bislama, English and French
- Cash: ATMs exist in town, but carry cash for markets and small vendors
- Weather: Warm all year, with a wetter season from November to April
- Safety: Vanuatu is generally safe. Take normal precautions for water activities and remote areas
Choose Your Bungalow
Every bungalow is 30m2. Rates include VAT and a complimentary continental breakfast.
- Superior Queen Room: 2 guests, from VUV 15,600
- Superior Ocean View Room: 2 guests, from VUV 17,600
- Triple Share: 3 guests, from VUV 18,600
- Family Bungalow: 4 guests, from VUV 19,600
Each room has a hair dryer, tea and coffee facilities, towels and toiletries. Cooked breakfast is half price for in house guests.
Getting Around
Taxis, rental cars and pre arranged transfers are available after landing. International flights from Australia and New Zealand land in Port Vila, and Air Vanuatu flies on to Santo. Ferries are also available.
The shuttle, bike hire and kayak hire make it easy to explore at your own pace.
Booking Details
A 50% deposit confirms your booking. Cancel with at least 15 days' notice for a full deposit refund.
Book on the official website for exclusive direct discounts. You can also call (+678) 37799 or email admin@coralquaysresort.vu.
Final Thoughts
So, is Luganville worth visiting? With wreck diving, blue holes, markets and wartime history, a few days here will go quickly.
Staying at Coral Quays Resort gives you a warm welcome, clear prices and easy access to it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Luganville worth visiting for a short stay?
Yes. Four days is enough to dive the wreck, visit a blue hole and explore the market.
How many days should I spend in Santo?
Most guests need 3 to 5 days to see the main sights and dive the wreck.
Do I need to be a certified diver?
No. Introductory dives are offered for the SS President Coolidge.
What is the best season for diving and beaches?
The dry season, from May to October, is recommended for diving, hiking and beaches.
Does the resort offer airport transfers?
Yes. Ask the team to arrange your airport transfer. The airport is about 10 minutes away by car.
Which currency should I carry?
Vanuatu Vatu is used, though many businesses accept Australian dollars.
