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©default|Sud Tourisme NC - Charlotte Bertonneau
The most beautiful beaches in South Province

The most beautiful beaches

in the South Province

New Caledonia boasts a fantastic array of sites and museums that showcase a rich history. Many old buildings are now listed as historic monuments in the Southern Province. This effort to preserve and highlight the region’s material heritage makes these places as captivating as they are educational. Whether it’s a theatre, a museum, a mine, or a colonial house, there’s plenty to explore in the towns of the Southern Province. The intangible heritage and cultural diversity are also celebrated during local fairs, performances, and certain festivals. Finally, events like Heritage Month or Museum Night shine a new light on Caledonian history and culture.

Kuto and Kanuméra Beaches Isle of Pines

Down in the southwest of the Isle of Pines, Kuto and Kanuméra bays are real stunners. The first one boasts a long stretch of white sandy beach that seems to go on forever. You can, of course, take a dip in its crystal-clear waters before embarking on a leisurely stroll. Bordered by coconut palms, it’s so large that you’ll soon find yourself alone to enjoy the scenery. Don’t miss the sunset in the evening! Kanuméra beach nestles in a small cove. In the middle, there’s a coral rock surrounded by multicoloured fish. You’ll want to quickly put on your snorkelling gear to admire them before enjoying some relaxation. These postcard-perfect landscapes will stay with you for a long time!

Oro Bay "Natural Pool" Isle of Pines

Isle of Pines boasts some of the finest beaches in the Pacific. This time, we’re taking you to Baie d’Oro, amidst the columnar pines. Here, little inlets that are full of charm lead you down into the crystal-clear water to an open-air aquarium. You’ll find a plethora of vibrantly coloured fish awaiting you there, in a natural pool that is already overflowing with its own surreal colours. There is a charge for access to the site, and you’ll get there after a lovely short walk.

Poé Beach Bourail

Looking for a spot that combines beaches, water sports, and accommodation? Welcome to Poé! Facing the turquoise lagoon, where the coral reef is closest to the shore, you can share your leisure time with family and friends. This long stretch of white sandy beach is ideal for kids. The water is shallow, activities such as pedal-boating, paddle-boating and kayaking are possible, and accommodation is nearby. Wild camping areas are even allowed! Poé Beach in Bourail is also a highly appreciated kite surfing spot for sports enthusiasts.

Anse Vata Beach Nouméa

A pretty beach in the heart of downtown? It’s possible in Nouméa! Anse Vata combines a long beach, shaded areas, picnic tables, and opportunities for water sports like windsurfing. Workout stations, pétanque courts, restaurants, cafés, and ice cream shops in the vicinity make it a pleasant leisure spot for families or friends. At weekends, it’s customary to bring your mat and cooler for a picnic in the shade of the coconut palms. This beach is also the departure point for shuttles to îlot Maître and îlot Canard.

Mwara Beach Thio

Located in the commune of Thio to the east of the Chaîne Centrale, Mwara beach offers a stretch of golden sand surrounded by coconut palms. The surrounding landscapes are wild, giving it an atmosphere worthy of Robinson Crusoe’s beaches. On site, you can camp or simply picnic for the day. There’s an entrance fee. You might even spot a dugong in the water from time to time! The surrounding areas are definitely worth a visit.

Turtle Bay and Lover's Bay Bourail

In Bourail, to the north of the Roche Percée beach, the Baie des Tortues and the Baie des Amoureux have beaches that are often deserted. They can be admired from afar, from the Bonhomme of the Roche Percée. The leaning columnar pines that line the beaches give them a unique atmosphere. Having a picnic there is very enjoyable, as is dipping your toes in the water. A magnificent trail allows you to explore the bays, offering multiple viewpoints. It’s the 4-kilometer-long Trois Baies trail.

Lemon Bay Nouméa

This is Nouméa’s liveliest beach spot, right in the heart of the city. Surrounded by shops and bars, the Baie des Citrons beach – the “BD” as Nouméans call it – is a place for relaxation, picnics, and strolls. For families, the trees and lawns provide welcome shade, the swimming is supervised, and the floating pontoons keep the kids entertained. Having a drink or an ice cream after your swim is a must!

La Roche Percée Bourail

Famous for its Bonhomme, the Roche Percée beach is bordered by waves that delight surfers and the more adventurous. Be careful, as swimming can be dangerous because of the currents. The beach is large and lends itself to many outdoor games, for fun with family and friends. It’s a good place to rest in the midst of visiting the surrounding points of interest and hiking. A snack-shop located right in front of the beach also provides a refreshing stop!

Somme Bay Beach Prony

If you’re looking for a wild, atypical beach, head for Baie de la Somme. This long beach of reddish-brown sand offers a landscape typical of New Caledonia’s Great South. The red earth is close by, and the forests tower above. The water takes on a strange, pretty blue-green hue. On clear days, the underwater depths are perfect for beautiful dives. The nearby aiguille de Prony is a curiosity for all scuba diving enthusiasts. The Baie de Somme beach is also the starting point for whale-watching day-trips, from July to September.

Ouano Beach La Foa

Looking for a sporty, uncrowded beach where you can sleep over? Ouano Beach might just be your cup of tea! This place has plenty to offer. You can come for a picnic or camp without the need for advance reservations. Its orientation makes it an excellent kite surfing spot for all levels. The beach is long, so it’s easy to find a quiet spot where you can relax. From Ouano, you can enjoy the nearby mangroves. Surf enthusiasts can take a boat to the reef to catch some waves.

Carcassonne Beach Mont-Dore

This small brown sand beach has an authentic atmosphere. Popular with locals, it offers the perfect setting for a family picnic and an afternoon of leisure. Water activities include stand-up paddle, kayak and va’a. Areas for pétanque are also available. Carcassonne beach is an interesting alternative for families who want a change from the beaches of Nouméa, without having to drive too far.

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