vanuatu surf tours

Best Surf Spots In Vanuatu

Formerly known as New Hebrides islands, Vanuatu is an island country in the South Pacific Ocean. While Vanuatu still very much lies in the shadow of its neighboring countries like Fiji and Samoa, it has more than a fair share to offer from a surfing point of view. Indeed, Vanuatu is undoubtedly on par with many of the world’s top surfing destinations.

Surfing in Vanuatu is gradually gaining a reputation of equal standing to the likes of Fiji and other top surfing hotspots. Vanuatu boasts some high-quality waves that are suitable for all surfers. The affordability and lack of overcrowding make Vanuatu the ideal destination to catch some waves.

Undoubtedly one of the most difficult parts about traveling to the world’s best surf spots is that they are often extremely expensive places to visit. Thankfully, Vanuatu is an island getaway that has some incredible surf on offer and is by far cheaper than its neighboring countries like Fiji, as an example. Discover why Vanuatu should be your next surfing destination.

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Surfing In Vanuatu

Vanuatu is undoubtedly a surfer’s paradise that has remained (for the most part) relatively unknown. Indeed, the island country has long been overshadowed by its neighboring countries from both a surfing and tourism point of view. However, slowly but surely, that is beginning to change as more and more people realize that Vanuatu offers surfers something truly special.

Vanuatu is widely untouched from a surfing perspective. There are undoubtedly still parts of the roughly 80 islands that make up Vanuatu that have yet to be explored for their surfing quality. However, the parts of Vanuatu that have been explored are unquestionably on par with some of the world’s top surfing destinations, thanks to the waves and overall consistency.

As surfing continues to gain popularity worldwide, it is becoming more and more difficult to enjoy a secluded surfing experience. And it is exactly that that makes Vanuatu so special. The waves here are on par with the likes of Fiji; however, crowding in the waves is virtually non-existent. It is undoubtedly every surfer’s dream to enjoy quality waves without the crowds.

The waves in Vanuatu offer lengthy rides and typically reach heights of up six feet and higher. Sure, it might be somewhat of a stretch to say that this is the best place to surf on earth, but it certainly is a top competitor. Indeed, surfers will undoubtedly enjoy the top-quality waves that Vanuatu has to offer. The breathtaking views and secluded experience are a welcome bonus.

When To Go Surfing In Vanuatu

If you have already been on the surf scene for a few years now, you will know that there are several variable conditions that can play a role in the surfing experience that you can expect to have. Everything from the wind, swell, weather, and the overall time of year play a significant role in the quality of the surf.

Another great part about Vanuatu is that surfing here can be enjoyed throughout the year. Indeed, the conditions are almost always near perfect. That being said, for the best possible experience, the best time to go surfing in Vanuatu is between March and December. That’s right, Vanuatu’s prime surf season is the majority of the year. How many other spots could make that claim?

Vanuatu also has an incredible climate. Surfers will get to enjoy some of the best temperate weather throughout the year, and water temperatures very rarely – if ever – drop below 77 degrees Fahrenheit (roughly 25 degrees Celsius), so you certainly won’t be needing any form of a wetsuit to surf here, no matter what time of year it is.

Vanuatu’s prime surf season thankfully caters to surfers of all skill and experience levels. It is all about knowing which spots you should visit based on your surfing ability. All in all, beginner and highly advanced surfers will both have plenty of suitable waves to enjoy in the pleasure of a secluded surfing experience.  

The Best Surf Spots in Vanuatu

Alright, now that you know more about Vanuatu’s surfing experience as well as the best time to pay the country a visit for a surfing adventure, there is really only one thing left to cover – and an important one at that. Let us dive into planning your next surfing excursion by showing you a few of the best surf spots in Vanuatu.

Note that most of the best surfing in Vanuatu is found on one of the islands known as Efate Island. Most of the spots that we will cover will be found there.

Erakor Point

First on our list is one of Vanuatu’s surf spots that intermediate to highly advanced surfers will enjoy. Erakor Point is undoubtedly one of Vanuatu’s prime surf spots, and when the conditions here are at their prime, you will not want to miss out on these waves. Ideal waves heights at Erakor Point range from six to eight feet tall – perfect for the advanced surfer.

Even outside of prime conditions, you can still expect good waves ranging from four to six feet tall, with wavelengths ranging anywhere from 50 to 100 feet. Erakor Point does have some sharp coral to watch out for, so this spot should really only be attempted by more experienced surfers.

Port Resolution

Port Resolution is undoubtedly the perfect Vanuatu surf spot for beginner to intermediate surfers. The bay area protects most of the water from strong winds, so the waves here never really get to challenging levels. However, there is still a ton of fun to be had at Port Resolution. For those new to surfing, this is the spot where you want to find yourself at.

Pango Point

Last on our list – but not the last of the surf spots that Vanuatu has to offer – is Pango Point, which in many ways is similar to Erakor Point. Though not as advanced, the waves at Pango Point still reach average heights of four to six feet, which undoubtedly makes for the perfect day of surfing for all surfers. Indeed, both beginners and highly advanced surfers will enjoy this spot.

Coral is also something to watch out for at Pango Point, but it isn’t as much of a concern as places like Erakor Point. Pango Point is also a great place for diving, so surfers will be able to enjoy a whole day of water adventures.

All in all, Vanuatu, in many ways, is one of those “see it to believe it” kind of surf spots. Thankfully this prime surf spot is beginning to gain recognition – and rightfully so! Any surfer would be lucky to enjoy a surfing experience in Vanuatu, and what an experience it will be! Do not pass by on an opportunity to surf the top-quality waves of Vanuatu! 

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Surfing in Vanuatu

Vanuatu is an archipelago located in the South Pacific Ocean and has amazing waves. It’s often compared to many other famous surf destinations in the world, however with way less crowds and certainly at a cheaper price. The archipelago has more than 80 islands and it’s known for having excellent surf spots coexisting with a beautiful tropical scenery. Vanuatu is probably one of the best kept secrets of the surf community and offers some of the most hollow and powerful surf breaks in the South Pacific. Solid swells coming from deep Antarctic lows hit the perfect shaped reefs around the islands creating fantastic surfing conditions. Although there is a big range of surf spots that work from low to high tides, the best waves break on top of coral reefs making Vanuatu a surf destination better suited for intermediate and advanced surfers. The archipelago has waves all year round but the peak season is from March to December when the southern coasts of the islands capture lots of swell. 

Climate in Vanuatu  

Vanuatu has a tropical climate with warm sunny days and humid conditions during most of the year. Although the archipelago has a wet season from November to April, and cyclones occur from December to February, the weather conditions are generally good and downpours are usually short. The average temperature during this period of the year is around 22°C. From May to October the island country experiences a warm dry season with temperatures averaging around 30°C. The best time to surf in Vanuatu is from March to December when southern swells coming from deep Antarctic lows bring powerful swells. During the cyclone season there is also potential for huge swells.

Best surf spots in Vanuatu

Vanuatu has lots of potential to find new surf spots but there are already many well known world class waves. These are the most popular surf spots in the archipelago: Erakor Point, Pango Point, Tanna Village, Cookies Reef, Breakas, Port Resolution, Fishermans.

Budget Planning

Meal price range

Simple meals start at $7 USD. Mid-range meals start at $20 USD. Dining & drinking at high-end restaurants can cost anywhere from $60-80 USD

Equipment rental

Bring your own gear and don’t forget to pack your spare gear too.

Prepaid SIM cards

Digicel is a good choice. SIM cards can be purchased from their kiosk in Bauerfield International Airport or in their stores. Prepaid packages start at $3 USD.

Public transport

Taxis are marked with a red 'T' on their number plates. Charges depend on distance, but also on the state of the road. A short trip in Port Vila might cost $3.50 USD, but a day charter will cost between $66-100 USD.

Roads on most of Vanuatu’s islands are not even suitable for cars or 4WDs. In remote areas --like the east coast of Maewo, Pentecost, Ambrym, and the west coasts of Santo and Malekula – the only access is by foot or speedboat. 

Minibuses with a red ‘B’ on their number plates operate in Port Vila, Luganville and northeast Malekula. They don’t run along fixed routes but instead go directly to the destination of each passenger. 

Gas prices  

$1.44 USD a liter.  

Types of risks

Reef Sharks, Sharp Coral, Sunburn.

How to prepare

Citizens from 120 countries, including EU, US, and Australia, can enter Vanuatu without a visa for 30-90 days --duration depends on what nationality you are.

Although it's not mandatory, it’s recommended that you have been vaccinated for hepatitis A & B, typhoid, rabies, meningitis, polio, Tdap, chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia, influenza, measles, mumps and rubella.

Things to know

Language & Currency

There are 3 official languages: English, French, and Bislama.

Ni-Vanuatu Vatu (VT) is the official currency.

Best time to go

Experiences year-round swells. 

Between November and April there are huge and frequent cyclonic swells.

Between March to December, southern swells originating from deep Antarctic lows send consistent solid breaks along the South Coast.

Checking Surf forecast 

Checking the forecast about a week before your trip is always a good idea. Understanding what the waves will be like and knowing what gear to pack is essential. You can check the forecast for the waves here .

Do I need pack a pharmacy kit

You should bring a basic kit. Including ear drops, eye drops, bandaids, ear plugs, gaze, alcohol, mosquito repellent and broad spectrum antibiotic ointment.

Travel/Surf Insurance

World Nomads has great travel insurance packages that are not super expensive and they cover surfing.

Dial 111 for emergencies. 

Check surf pictures of Vanuatu at #surfvanuatu

For availability and quote

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24 hours support on Skype (nomadsurfers-europe) and Calls  +33 970445933

Surfing Vanuatu.

You'll hear "there's no surf in Vanuatu" but that's what they said about Fiji not long ago. Vanuatu surfing can be as good as some of the crowded spots in Fiji, Samoa, Tonga but takes patience and transport to get to the more innaccesable surf spots. Surfing in Vanuatu is still in its infancy. More time is needed by the hearty few to get out and discover. There's plenty of potential, not only on Efate but also on the many of this Y shaped chain of four main islands and 80 smaller islands.

Vanuatu surfing climate is tropical. S.E. tradewinds blow from May to Oct. You can expect moderate rainfall between Nov. to April. Cyclone season is Dec. to April

Efate Island Surfing Spots in Vanuatu

1. breaka's resort, port vila - efate island.

Location : Breaka's Resort, Pango Road, Port Vila Directions : Catch a bus or drive on the Pango Point Road until you come to Breaka's Beach Resort.

Pango also has one of the most beautiful diving site, here in Port Vila on the out skirts of Pango Point.

Type of wave : Hollow barreling wave Direction : left and right Break : Reef break Bottom : Coral Length of ride : 40-50 meters Best tide : High tide Wave size : Good 6-8 ft in autumn and ok 4-6 ft rest of year Best months : April to June Best winds : South-east Level of surfing : Beginner Ideal board : 6'2-6'4 Thruster

Hazards : Reef Sharks, Sharp Coral, Sunburn.

2. Erakor Point, Port Vila - Efate Island

Location : Erakor Point, Erakor Island, Port Vila Directions : Catch a bus to the Erakor Ferry. Then a free ferry followed by a short walk. Ferry runs on the half hour and the hour.

Type of wave : Occasionally barreling wave Direction : left Break : Reef break Bottom : Coral Length of ride : 50-100 meters Best tide : High tide Wave size : Good 6-8 ft in summer & autumn and ok 4-6 ft rest of year Best months : January to March Best winds : All directions Level of surfing : Intermediate Ideal board : 6'4-6'8 Thruster

3. Pango Point, Port Vila - Efate Island

Location : Pango Point Road, Port Vila Directions : Take or drive out to Pango Village on the Pango Road. The Point is not far past the Village and Breaka's Resort is on the same road.

Type of wave : Hollow barreling wave Direction : left and right Break : Reef break Bottom : Coral Length of ride : 50-100 meters Best tide : High tide Wave size : Good 4-6 ft in summer and ok 2-4 ft rest of year Best months : January to June Best winds : north ,north-west ,east ,north-east Level of surfing: Intermediate Ideal board : 6'4-6'8 Thruster

4. Eratap island, Eratap village- Efate Island

Location : Head out to Eratap village and ask for a canoe ride out to the island.

Type of wave : Righthander, hollow.

Hazards : Reef Sharks, Sharp Coral, Sunburn. Getting stranded.

Places to stay in Vanuatu

There are many great places to stay in Vanuatu if you are a surfing enthusiast. We have approached many of the resorts where the great surfing spots can be found. Some of the resorts we have listed in this section allow you to book your accommodation with them online. With the others you have to send them an email and the management will get back to you.

Port Vila, Efate Island

Breaka's beach resort.

Pango Road. This is an adults only Resort and you have the surf right outside your front door.

Tradewinds Resort

Captain Cook Avenue. This mini resort is situated in the town of Port Vila and only a few minutes by bus or hire card to the surfing spots near Port Vila.

Treetops Lodge & Bungalows

Pango Raod. Ideal cheap accommodation only a short walk from Breaka's and a couple of minutes by buses from the other great spots.

SURF TRAVEL

Surfing in Vanuatu

Surf Spots In Vanuatu

• Submit a Surf Spot
• Surf Map Guide
• Surf Travel Forum
• Packing for a Surf Trip
• Packing a Board Bag
• Surf Travel Insurance
• Airlines & Surfboards
• Surfers Medikit
• Surfers Luggage
• Surfboard Bags
• Boardshorts

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Surf Travel

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• Ultimate Round Efate Island Tour
• Blue Lagoon & Turtle Beach
• Chocolate Factory & Custom Village & Turtle & Blue Lagoon
• Survivor Beach & Mele Cascade
• Cultural Villages Combo - Legend “Toka Dance”
• Surfing experience
• Home staying experience
• Tree house stay and Yasur Volcano adventure
• Making Original Kava
• Cooking & Weaving Experience Tour
• Lava Lakes Treking Tour
• Dugong searching trip
• Lava Lake Ambrym Island - Helicopter Tour
• Hidden Cascade
• Commercial filming Pre-research, filming permission and coordination

Surfing experience at Pango beach

Frankly speaking, Vanuatu is not a destination of surfing. Wave is not consistent compared with other famous surfing spots such as Bali or Fiji. However, there are untouched breaks over a cristal clear coral water.

Pango Beach facing south is a popular surfing beach among locals.

Waves and smiles of local surfers would give you a good start of the day.

South Pacific Tour - Port-Vila - Vanuatu

Adventure on Your Doorstep

We are nearby many local attractions, including: Epule River, Cascades & Rainforest, Takara Hot Springs, WW2 museum & history, living villages, local stores, coral reef, islands, blue hole, beaches, surfing, top rock lookout, underwater caves, cultural shows, restaurants, havannah harbor, Emau Wharf, Old Ferrari Mine and more!

Activities & Tours

Prices are per person, in AUD.

Kayaking & Cascade River Trail

Take a guided tour up Epule River, wave to the locals on the river banks and spend some time swimming in the waterhole as the river ends. If you are up for some fun, try out the rope swing.

Foodies Adventure

This is no ordinary food tour! It’s is a jam-packed cooking class that includes some fun, some laughs, and a whole lot of authentic culinary traditions. Put your hunting and gathering skills to the test as you make a real Vanuatu feast!

Wilderness Discovery Adventure Tour

Calling all adventure seekers! Experience the best of island life on this full-day tour that includes kayaking, hiking, swimming, sunning, and even a lesson on how to survive in the jungle.

Take a relaxing dip in one of several private swimming coves along the resort front or float about in our Bay.

Scuba Diving

Why travel around the island to experience the best of Vanuatu waters when we have it all here. Only 200 metres from the resort front you will find Scuba bliss.

You are in for a treat with a stunning reef right out front of the resort. You can snorkel effortlessly through the natural current as you take in all of the beautiful marine life.  Float around in the beautiful Paradise bay or relax in one of our secluded coves for free, or check out our secret spots with a local for $10. 

from FREE-$10

Cultural Experience

Bike Riding

We have bikes available for Resort guests to use at their own pace. Take‎ a leisurely ride around the resort and take in the stunning sites.

Sport/Game Fishing

Really love fishing? So do we, head out to the best fishing spots Vanuatu has to offer and hook onto some serious fish! a Blue Marlin, Mai Mai, GT, Wahoo and enjoy a complimentary picnic basket while you take in the ocean breeze and soak up the sun. Half day $50, Full day $80.

from $50-80

Local Fishing Experience

Fish like the locals do on the beach with your very own custom made bamboo fishing rod.

Catch some of the best waves in Vanuatu right out front of the resort. BYO surf board.

Bush Walking

Take a guided tour through the beautiful terrain of North Efate. Walk up the mountain and get amongst it all.

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Paradise at Turtle Bay

Turtle bay beach house, holiday house espiritu santo, vanuatu.

BEACHSIDE ISLAND Resort Vanuatu

Breakas Beach Resort is an intimate tropical retreat providing the ultimate “feet in the sand” beach holiday. Enhanced by the natural beauty of a private cove on Pango peninsular, Breakas Beach Resort rests in an unrivaled backdrop in Port Vila. The Award Winning Resort features a stunning 22-metre infinity pool which falls into the horizon of the Pacific Ocean.

TROPICAL LIVING

Tropical garden faré.

Beach Front Faré

Facilities Include:

• Massage Faré
• Free Parking

ACTIVITIES IN BREAKAS

Picnic at eton beach.

This is probably the nicest white sand beach on Efate. Set yourself up in for the day for a picnic.

Lelepa Island Day Tour

You’ve never been to Vanuatu, unless you visit our beautiful Paradise Island.

Volcano Experience

Head off across Tanna Island on an extraordinary adventure safari to Mt Yasur Volcano.

WATERSPORTS

Dive into adventure with Vanuatu Watersports Port Vila! 

Horseriding

Club Hippique is located on the shores of the beautiful Etmat Bay, Erakor and only a short drive from town

Surfing at PANGO SURF CLUB

Breakas Beach Resort is positioned near the best surfing Beaches in Port Vila.

Adults only

Environment.

Breakas Beach Resort provides a magical holiday experience for those seeking a beachfront getaway in an Adults Only environment (yes-leave the children at home and relax!)

Love Breakas

I thoroughly enjoyed my time here last week. If I was going back to Vanuatu, I would stay here once again. The beachfront bure was lovely, the staff super friendly and the food and drinks were delicious (the Kava colada was strong, let’s just say ‘I only needed one’ :P). The setting is perfect along the beach front with many a photo opportunity to remember the trip in years to come. The pool was nice too, would have been cool if there was a swim up bar, but in saying that the bar is next to the pool area anyway – so it is certainly not an issue. I would highly recommend you book the trip to Breakas Beach Resort to experience the island paradise for yourself. I really miss the shower! Looking at the moon, sun, stars and trees was a refreshing change from my bathroom ceiling at home 😀

I loved my stay at Breakas Resort! It’s perfectly situated in Port Vila with a private beach and easy access to shops and restaurants. The resort offers everything you need, so there’s no need to even leave. The snorkeling in Vanuatu is fantastic, right by the resort’s private beach. The pool overlooking the water is stunning, and the food was exceptional. The staff were friendly and attentive, and the bungalows provided a memorable and enjoyable stay. The tour desk is excellent at arranging a variety of day trips, they handle all the logistics to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip. I highly recommend Breakas Resort and look forward to returning soon! – Olivia McDonald from Defining Decade

Stayed here for a week. This along with many other accommodation venues in Port Vila are rated 3 star, but this is 5 star. Great facilities (no a/c in cabins) friendly staff and good.food and.drinks. A beautiful location on the water. Would definitely recommend it to everyone.

Award Winning Resort

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Surfing in Vanuatu

Vanuatu has been a relatively unknown and an underground surf destination for a few years now. The island is rich in culture and history, has beautiful sandy beaches, lush jungles and mountains as well as some really good surf breaks!

It’s the perfect destination to take a non-surfing partner or family with a variety of activities and surf breaks to keep everyone entertained.

Comprising of 83 islands, with the capital of Port Villa being on the main island its only 3 hours flying time from Auckland.

The best way to take advantage of Vanuatu’s surf is to base yourself at one of the islands resorts and explore the surf spots around the island by rental car. Alternatively you could paddle out to the main breaks off the south coast.

This is also a great destination for the more adventurous if you’re up to it! The outer islands offer amazing snorkelling, pristine beaches, live volcanoes and – if you search for them – some epic uncrowded (and possibly) un-named surf breaks….

Vanuatu Surfing Tours

Breakas beach resort.

Surfers, sightseers and families love this exotic island nation for its fun waves, great beaches and wealth of cultural attractions.

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Waves at Surfside

Self Contained Pango Phone: +678 25334 or + Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. Web: Visit website

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Description

Waves at Surfside are peaceful villas right on Pango Beach with the best surf break on the Island, a short 20 minutes drive from the airport.

Map & Directions

waves at surfside, Port Vila, Vanuatu

5-10minutes drive from the capital town Port Vila, located along Pango bay.

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