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Charlotte 0510Is it raining? Well, if you’re going to get wet, you might as well do it while admiring the lagoon’s marvellous coral and marine life! Contrary to what you might think, the rain offers excellent conditions for scuba diving. When it rains, the sea is generally calmer and there’s not as much wind. Under the water, you’ll quickly forget the gloomy weather above the surface. Immersed in the silence of the depths, you’ll delight in the peaceful atmosphere surrounded by fish and reefs. In Nouméa, Bourail, La Foa, Île des Pins, Prony, and elsewhere, diving centres offer different types of excursions for beginners or advanced divers.
If the rain is dampening your snorkelling plans, there’s nothing stopping you from discovering the fish of the New Caledonian lagoon while staying dry. Head to Nouméa’s Aquarium des Lagons ! Between Anse Vata and Baie des Citrons, you’ll find 3,000 square metres of tanks awaiting you. Replicating the various marine ecosystems of New Caledonia, they feature sea snakes, nautiluses, clownfish, butterflyfish, sharks, sting rays, turtles, and more. Kids can spend hours admiring the underwater fauna, while their parents can learn about the threats to species and their habitats.
Visite Aquarium de NouméaWhat better way to enjoy a rainy day than by delving into New Caledonia’s heritage? There’s no shortage of cultural activities in the communes, starting with Nouméa! History, architectural heritage, Kanak culture, mining history, and more, the museums and historical monuments are as numerous as they are varied. Even better, some are perfectly suited to family visits, with routes specially designed for kids. Among the places of cultural interest not to be missed in the South Province, you’ll find, for example:
Turn that nasty downpour into a real moment of pleasure: indulge in some wellness for your body and mind. A hammam session with friends, a spa, a treatment in a spa, an aquatonic experience, among other services. Take some time for yourself, for a morning or an afternoon. Many spas and institutes are located in top-notch hotels. These quiet, restful settings are perfect for extending these sweet moments with a cup of tea or a cocktail.
Explore our list of the best spas in South Province such as :
Relax in lush natural surroundings, join your hosts in making a traditional bougna, spend time reading, or simply recharge your batteries… in a cosy lodge, a rainy moment can quickly become a joyful interlude. In South Province, there are a number of eco-lodges, homestays, and comfortable cottages, perfect for relaxation and cocooning. By the river, by the sea, in a bubble open to the stars, or in a cosy wooden bungalow, you’re sure to find the perfect place for you!
Is the weather not looking great? Take the opportunity to treat yourself to a gourmet coffee break. Sit facing the sea or in a hidden garden, and watch the raindrops fall while you stay comfortably dry, sipping a hot chocolate, a fresh fruit cocktail, a tasty crêpe, or a homemade pastry in one of Nouméa’s concept stores, neighbourhood cafés, or upscale hotel bars: let your mood guide you!
Make the most of a gloomy day by strolling past the artwork exhibited in South Province, especially in Nouméa. Galleries showcase local talent, both well-known and lesser-known. This is a chance to discover New Caledonian artists in a diversified artistic offering. Passionate collectors and gallery owners will love to share their enthusiasm for contemporary art, indigenous art, or photography with you. Some galleries are located in magnificent colonial houses, like the DZ Galerie in Nouméa. in Nouméa. Others are also highly reputed: Arte Belloin the Quartier Latin, Lec Lec Tic at Anse Vata, or the Andemic Art Gallery at Le Meridien. Places filled with history such as the Hagen Castle or the Higginson House regularly feature exhibitions not to be missed. These can be found in the Agenda of events.
Art Factory Maison Cheval Salle Dexposition Charlotte Bertonneau 0228
Chateau Hagen Charlotte Bertonneau 5732
Art Factory Maison Cheval Salle Dexposition Charlotte Bertonneau 0387If you’re looking for souvenirs to bring back or send, now’s the time to get busy! At the Chambre des Métiers et de l’Artisanat, visit the workshop-boutiques of local artisans. You’ll find woodcarving, pareos, coral jewellery, framing, and mini showcases. In ARDICI retail points and tourist office boutiques, Caledonian artisans are also in the spotlight. The Caledonian brand ARDICI brings together artists who craft by hand many objects that are emblematic of the region, often using local materials. They’ll be delighted to introduce you to their creativity, technique, and production process.
Hotel Beaurivage Charlotte Bertonneau 8757
Theatre De Lile Charlotte Bertonneau 3997If it’s raining, why not take refuge by seeing a good film or a theatre piece or a dance performance? Cultural and festive events take place all year round in South Province. The weather forecast is grey and rainy? Check out the Events Calendar to see what’s on at cinemas in South Province: Théâtre de l’Île, Rex, Centre d’Art in Nouméa, Centre Culturel du Mont-Dore, Arènes de Païta, Chapitô itinérant, among others. If nothing suits you, then get a cinema ticket in Nouméa, Bourail or La Foa. You’re sure to find a good movie to cheer you up or keep the kids entertained.
Is it raining? Take shelter in a bookshop or library. Browse the bookshops and come away with a treasure trove, or take your kids to the media library for some entertainment, or just immerse yourself in books: there’s plenty to keep you busy for a while! The bouquinerie du Liseron in Nouméa’s Quartier Latin, and the libraries and mediatheques in Nouméa and Le Mont-Dore offer pleasant reading spaces. To discover the bookshops and libraries in South Province, check out our list using the “book” filter.
