I’d never heard of a “swim holiday” before Vanuatu. Turns out, it’s when you swim. A lot.
Every single day of the holiday we swam in places that looked like they belonged in a documentary. We snorkelled reefs alive with colour and fish, floated around in resort pools, jumped off waterfalls and into swimming holes.
Though this wasn’t just a holiday that made a splash – it was a family reunion and a celebration. Thirty of us flew in from all over Australia to meet in one central spot for my daughter’s 18th birthday. Vanuatu turned out to be the perfect choice as the moment you land you feel like you have stepped into another world.
What struck me most was how untouched Vanuatu still feels. Life moves at its own pace. The people are warm, welcoming and genuine, living their island lives while visitors come and go. Most days felt relaxed and unhurried, with none of the usual rush you sometimes get in tourist destinations. The only time it felt busy was when a cruise ship was in town. On those days, my tip is to hire four wheelers and head out to discover hidden beaches, swim under waterfalls and pull into beach bars for a beer with sand between your toes.
We split our stay between Iririki Island Resort and Warwick Le Lagon. Iririki is right in the middle of Port Vila yet still feels like its own island escape. The staff could not have been friendlier, and it made exploring town so easy.
Warwick Le Lagon is a little further out, more affordable, and has everything you would want in a resort. Both resorts had swim up bars, free buffet breakfasts each morning, and the kind of hospitality that makes you feel at home. The bonus at Warwick Le Lagon is that kids eat free, which makes a huge difference when you are travelling with a group. And when the days were done, there was nothing better than a massage, listening to the sound of the water and feeling every bit of stress just disappearing.
One of the highlights of our trip was Arthur Ron’s Tours and Transfers. With such a big family, flexibility was key.
Arthur tailored each day to us, from cascades and blue lagoon visits to cultural stops. And when it came to my daughter’s birthday, he went above and beyond, organising a full 18th birthday pub crawl for the whole family. It was unforgettable and just showed the kind of personal care that makes travelling here so memorable.
Another must see is Moso Island and the Blue Cave. Imagine floating in a natural cathedral of blue light, with sunbeams streaming through rock openings. It is one of those places you will never forget.
And do not miss Top Rock. Perched high with sweeping views across the islands, it is not only a spectacular lookout but also home to a unique restaurant. Sitting down to eat with that view laid out in front of you is something pretty special.
What makes Vanuatu truly unforgettable is its people. They are honest, kind and welcoming. Spend some time chatting with locals, wandering through markets, sipping cocktails by the pool, treating yourself to a massage, or simply enjoying the slower pace of life. That is where you will find the heart of the islands.
