Must-see places in Isle of Pines | Sud Tourism New Caledonia

Must-see places

If you haven’t taken the time to visit the island yet, we’ve selected the must-see spots on the Île des Pins, iconic sites to see or revisit. Discover all the wonders of this paradise!
Feel free to explore the Sud Tourisme website and visit tourist offices, where our memory makers will share their best tips and reveal hidden gems!

Isle of Pines

Kuto and Kanuméra Bays

Located in the southwest of the Île des Pins, the bays of Kuto and Kanuméra are awe-inspiring. As you approach, you’ll be dazzled by the white sand and turquoise blue of the lagoon. Put on your snorkelling gear and set off to discover the clownfish, butterflyfish, and striped tricoloured fish that gravitate around the rocks of Kanuméra! If you’re feeling sporty, the Ouré Tera hotel rents out paddleboards and transparent kayaks. Nestled at the end of a small cove dotted with coral reefs, the hotel’s restaurant is both discreet and luxurious. After your excursions underwater and on the immaculate sand, take a seat at a beachside table. Feast on freshly caught mahi-mahi or snapper and soak in the idyllic scenery.

Upi Bay

From Baie Saint-Joseph, you can explore one of the island’s treasures aboard a traditional pirogue. It’s an authentic way to enjoy a breathtaking panorama. Picture yourself comfortably seated in your pirogue… Upi Bay looms in the distance on your left. Your piroguier hoists the sail, and you’re already in the middle of coral rocks that seem to float as if by magic… Surrounded by Araucaria pines tree, you savour the gentle breeze that caresses your face. Your piroguier signals to you. The turtles poke their heads out of the water. Or maybe it’s the back of a dolphin in the distance, or the wings of a stingray!

The Natural Pool of Oro Bay

In the Bay of Oro, a marvellous swim among small multicoloured fish awaits you. If you’ve just crossed Upi Bay by pirogue, the trail that leads you to the Piscine Naturelle is already magical: sometimes in the forest, sometimes with your feet in the water, you follow the inlet lined with Araucaria pines tree. The colours are incredibly pure. After paying an entrance fee of 200 francs, you arrive at this open-air aquarium. All that’s left to do is enjoy a snorkelling session around the coral rock!

Brosse and Moro islets

The lagoon of the Isle of Pines is home to a number of small islands, each more magnificent than the last! Often deserted, populated by coconut palms and pine trees, some are accessible by boat on sea excursions. Such is the case of îlot Brosse off Kuto Bay. It’s the araucaria pines and their characteristic shape that give it its name. Visit îlot Brosse on a full-day or half-day excursion. On site, you’ll be able to swim and admire the fish and coral, take a stroll through the vegetation, and enjoy a delicious lobster-based meal.

Grotte d'Oumagne

The island’s interior is full of well-guarded treasures. The Grotte de la Reine Hortense, also known as Grotte d’Oumagne, is one of them. Rent a car or take a guided tour for an enchanting, mystical excursion. The cave’s fame stems from the legend that surrounds it, that of the young Kanedjo, who became Queen Hortense. The sovereign is known to have taken refuge here during the tribal wars of succession in 1855 and 1856. Tree ferns, kaoris, and tropical flowers lead you to the cave entrance. Inside, giant stalactites, bats, and banyan roots welcome you. At the far end of the grotto, a pretty crown-shaped skylight awaits you. Despite the symbolic importance of this site, you’ll probably be almost alone there, enjoying the mysterious atmosphere to the full. Take some change, as the entrance fee is XPF300 per person.

Discover the fascinating destiny of the daughter of Grand Chief Kaoua, who gave her name to this unusual cave hidden in the rainforest!

At the cave entrance, the giant stalactites, banyan vines and roots are impressive. To explore the tunnel to the skylight, don’t forget to bring a flashlight.

Be sure to bring cash to pay the entrance fee (500 XPF).

Bon à savoir

Grotte d’Oumagne, better known as Grotte de la Reine Hortense, is located in the north of the Île des Pins, in the heart of lush tropical vegetation, with a stream running through it. At the entrance, you’ll find a small temple dedicated to the memory of the Queen. The young Kanedjo, from her Kanak name, later christened Hortense in honour of Napoleon III’s mother, made this place a refuge at a time of inter-tribal conflict. She was and remains an important figure in the hearts of the Kuniés.