For many travellers, a spectacular view from their hotel is just as important as a sumptuous spa menu, gourmet dining or a swim in the pool bar. Particularly if they’re travelling to somewhere that’s known for its white sand beaches, blue lagoon waters and lush landscapes!
One such place is New Caledonia, a South Pacific archipelago less than three hours’ flight from Sydney, where stunning views overlooking its UNESCO World Heritage listed lagoon are commonplace. There’s no shortage of accommodation to explore, from resort hotels to locally run guesthouses. We’ve rounded up the top 10 places to stay with incredible lagoon views in New Caledonia, to inspire your next trip.
Chateau Royal Beach Resort & Spa – Noumea
Chateau Royal Beach Resort & Spa is situated on some of the most prime beachfront real estate in New Caledonia’s capital city, Noumea, on Anse Vata beach. It is undoubtedly the spot to enjoy the lagoon in Noumea, offering up contemporary suites (with all-important views of the sparkling blue lagoon waters), as well as direct beach access, making it ideal for taking a dip in the lagoon or enjoying a day out snorkelling at one of the small islands that dot Noumea’s shores. Not only this, but it offers a pool and swim bar, a range of restaurants and bars and a luxurious spa, all set within a tropical garden!
Le Meridien Ile des Pins – Isle of Pines
When you think of New Caledonia, it’s easy to conjure up images of the Isle of Pines, with its crystal-clear waters and iconic pine tree-lined shores. A short 20-minute flight or 2.5 hour ferry ride from Noumea, the Isle of Pines is a must-visit for anyone who loves to swim, snorkel or dive, and Le Meridien Ile des Pins, with its waterfront locale, is a must-stay. The resort offers recently renovated guestrooms and suites, a restaurant and bar that serves impressive views next to French-inspired cuisine made using local ingredients, an infinity pool and a relaxing spa. It’s also only a 15-minute walk to the famed Isle of Pines natural pool, a swimming spot brimming with tropical marine life.
Oure Tera Lodge – Isle of Pines
Also on the Isle of Pines is Oure Tera Lodge, which offers relaxed and comfortable bungalows nestled in a coconut grove on the calm shores of Kanumera Bay. Guests can choose from a range of accommodation types – a garden room, a garden bungalow or a family bungalow – however it’s Oure Tera’s beachfront bungalows are particularly striking, offering beachfront access, uninterrupted lagoon views and a simply perfect spot to watch the sun set. Oure Tera Lodge also offers two restaurants – one of which is on the beach – serving gourmet dishes made using locally-sourced produce.
Paradis d’Ouvea – Loyalty Islands
Paradis d’Ouvea literally translates to Paradise of Ouvea – and that it is! Ouvea is one of the three islands that make up the Loyalty Islands, which sit off New Caledonia’s east coast and are accessible via a short 40-minute domestic flight from Noumea. The Loyalty Islands are known for their bluer-than-blue lagoon waters and authentic island vibes, and Paradis d’Ouvea sits right on the beach offering guests unobstructed views. Guests can stay in their choice of garden or beachfront bungalows, as well as enjoy a restaurant, bar and pool, each of which also boast striking panoramas.
Drehu Village Lifou – Loyalty Islands
Lifou is another of the three Loyalty Islands and, similar to Ouvea, is famed for its postcard-perfect lagoon waters. Ideally situated on the beautiful Chateaubriand Bay, Drehu Village also offers garden and beachfront bungalows as well as suites, with the beachfront option proposing a private terrace with deckchairs for taking in the lagoon views before enjoying a refreshing dip. Its restaurant serves up breakfast, lunch and dinner daily, while its bar offers the perfect tipple to watch the sun set.
Kanua Tera Ecolodge – Mont Dore
Back on New Caledonia’s Grande Terre, or main island, sits Kanua Tera Ecolodge. Located in New Caledonia’s Great South, about a two-hour drive south-east of Noumea, Kanua Tera Ecolodge is nestled on the shores of the magnificent Port Boise Bay. It offers a range of spacious bungalows that were constructed using traditional techniques and locally sourced materials, and each featuring an individual terrace overlooking the bay that is perfect for watching the sunrise or sunset…or both. It also has a restaurant which serves up a delicious menu ranging from fresh seafood to bougna – a traditional Kanak dish – and a peaceful deck space that’s ideal for sipping an evening cocktail.
Relais de Poingam – Poum
Travelling from the south to the north! Relais de Poingam is located in the village of Poum, about a five-hour drive from Noumea (hot tip – New Caledonia is great for road-tripping, so grab a hire car and get out and explore!). It’s a laid-back and cosy spot to stay in New Caledonia’s north, offering comfortable rooms that are perfect for solo travellers, couples or families, a pool, a restaurant and bar, all overlooking the lagoon. Perhaps the best bit about a stay at Relais de Poingam is its friendly and welcoming team that go above and beyond to welcome travellers of all types.
Beach House Lodge – Boat Pass
Also in New Caledonia’s north is Beach House Lodge, located at Boat Pass, which connects the main island to the outer islands of Yenghebane and Baaba. Describing itself as a unique place far from hectic life, it offers a range of brightly coloured, comfortable villas that are great for groups and families and each offer views over the lagoon. As a fun twist, each villa is named after famous pirates from history and popular culture (like Jack Sparrow from Pirates of the Caribbean, or Abel Tasman, the Dutch explorer who discovered Tasmania and New Zealand)! Beach House Lodge also offers a restaurant, bar, pool, activities like beach games and mini golf, and day trips out to the outer islands.
Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort – Bourail
Over on New Caledonia’s west coast sits Sheraton New Caledonia Deva Spa & Golf Resort. Situated within the Deva Domain natural reserve, guests are treated to must-write-home-about landscapes: from the grasslands and rolling hills of the reserve, to the glistening blue lagoon and secluded white sand beach that lines its shores. The resort itself offers a range of rooms and bungalows, as well as a pool, bar and two restaurants, beautifully appointed spa and professional golf course. The highlight however might just be the comfortable sun lounges that line the beach and provide superb views of the sun setting over the lagoon!
DoubleTree by Hilton Noumea Ilot Maitre Resort – Noumea
Newly renovated and rebranded DoubleTree by Hilton Noumea Ilot Maitre Resort is the perfect tropical island getaway. Surrounded by a 200-hectare marine reserve, and situated only 30 minutes by boat from Noumea, the resort features 25 overwater bungalows, all with direct access to the lagoon and facing the sunset, and 39 beach or garden bungalows nestled in the tropical gardens or located on the beachfront. Travellers can dine at the poolside restaurant or the hotel’s café for light meals, relax by the pool bar, enjoy a massage or take advantage of the many water activities available to explore the lagoon.
What To Do That’s Off The Beaten Track
Visit the magnificent Blue River Park on an all day adventure trip. Take in the sights of this wildlife sanctuary by taking a seven hour day trip in a 4WD to get away from it all. The Toutazimut Eco Trip is a superb way to get lost in nature.
More details here.
