Anse Vata and Lemon Bay | Sud Tourism New Caledonia

Must-see places

The must-see seaside spot for Nouméans, bustling day and night.
List in the Top 10 must-visit in New Caledonia !

Nouméa

1. Anse Vata beach

Anse Vata is a majestic bay hemmed by a beautiful two-kilometre beach. This seaside district is one of Nouméa’s liveliest spots and one of New Caledonia’s most popular tourist destinations. Here you’ll find all the activities and facilities you need for a great stay: a beautiful coconut-fringed cove, water sports, choice hotels and restaurants, lots of shops and special access to the nearest islets. The beach is an ideal spot for a family picnic or lunch break. Wooden tables are arranged on the grass, and the view of the lagoon is magnificent. Is there anything more invigorating than a cooling swim as the temperature soars at midday?

2. An ideal beach for water sports

Anse Vata beach isn’t just a great place for families. As soon as the trade winds start blowing, it becomes a favourite spot for windsurfers. Hundreds of sailboards and wing foils then take to the sea, all the way to Duck island or îlot Maître Rental companies have taken up residence at Anse Vata. Set up along the Roger Laroque promenade, they rent out sailboards and wing foils, as well as paddle boards and kayaks. With Aloha Windsurfing, you can even get introductory lessons from an instructor!

A word of advice

Iif you want to try your hand at stand-up paddling or kayaking, it’s best to choose a calm, windless day. Early morning is also a great time!

Madeleine, Tourist Office of Nouméa

3. An invigorating walk accompanied by a stunning panoramic view.

The Promenade Roger Laroque is a popular place for a stroll at the end of the day and at weekends. Families and experienced walkers share the space to enjoy the superb views of the lagoon and islets, and get some exercise. In fact, a large part of Nouméa’s seafront has been converted into a huge fitness trail. Beyond Anse Vata, it leads to the Pierre Vernier promenade, skirts the islet of Saint-Marie, before continuing towards Magenta and then Tina. Pedestrians and cyclists alike can explore this magnificent path dotted with sports facilities. The views are breathtaking, especially in the light of early morning or sunset. If you don’t like crowds, come at dawn. Nights can be very busy!

4. Anse Vata and Lemon Bay, top shopping spots

La Promenade Shopping Center has got a bunch of big-name international brands for tourists and locals alike, including Billabong, L’Occitane, Havaianas, Malongo and Rip Curl. But that’s not all! This shopping area has really taken off, and recently we saw the opening of shops dedicated to locally made crafts, like Ardici. The shop features talented craftsmen offering authentic local products. You’re sure to find a great idea for a gift to send back home or to pack in your luggage!

Just like any decent beach resort, Anse Vata also has some top-notch shops selling swimwear, beach gear, and fitness items. The Palm Beach Shopping Center, along with the Bilboquet restaurant and the Faré snack bar, is a real hot-spot of Nouméan life. Finally, between Lemon Bay and Baie de l’Orphelinat, it’s at the Port Plaisance Shopping Center you’ll find everything you need for your shopping.

5. Ile aux Canards and îlot Maître just next door

From Anse Vata, it’s easy to get to Duck island and îlot Maître. In the middle of the beach, taxi-boats take you there in just a few minutes, at regular intervals. Duck island offers an underwater snorkeling trail, as well as a bar with deckchairs for lounging. Numerous theme nights are organised. Îlot Maître is home to a fancy resort hotel with overwater bungalows and its own restaurant, plus a wilder area where folks go for picnics and swims. It’s also the go-to island for kite surfers and a great spot to try your hand at this water sport.

6. The emblematic Lemon Bay

Anse Vata is separated from Baie des Citrons by the rocky sail. The “BD”, as it’s more familiarly known, is less than 10 minutes from downtown Nouméa. It’s the most popular seaside spot for Nouméans. The beauty of its beach, lined with banyan trees and tropical birds, and its many bars make it a perfect place to relax, party, and wander around. The beach is sheltered and supervised, with grassy picnic areas, calm waters, and a family atmosphere.

By the way, why the “Lemon Bay”?

This quirky name has led to all sorts of interpretations, but no one’s ever been able to pin down its exact origin for sure. Some believe it owes its name to the many lemon trees planted here before 1900. For others, six large ship’s trunks are said to have washed up there (look for the pun!)… What’s certain is that the bay has become the iconic spot of the capital and of its international appeal!

7. The “BD” is a favorite spot for night owls

Bars, restaurants and nightclubs line both sides of the Bay of Lemons. The vibe gradually picks up as sunset approaches, bringing together tourists, families, and groups of friends. People come here to admire the sunset, have a drink after a day’s work, or catch up with friends for pre-dinner drinks. Then it’s time to sit down at one of the many terraced restaurants. There’s plenty to choose from: seafood, crêperies, Vietnamese dishes, Italian pasta, burgers, traditional cuisine… Make way for diversity! Once you’ve filled your belly, head for the bars and nightclubs. Tucked into this classic beachside setting, the party spots around the bay offer live concerts and different vibrations. Something for everyone! For more details, read the post Where to go out in Nouméa ?

8. Lemon Bay and Anse Vata with your family

Lemon Bay boasts a beautiful promenade, sheltered from the prevailing winds. Swimming is supervised, and ice cream shops and juice bars are nearby. There are showers and shaded lawns… making it a very popular beach for families, especially at weekends. Between Lemon Bay and Anse Vata beach you’ll also find the Lagoons Aquarium, where you can discover the marine life of the New Caledonian lagoon. Kids love to scan the ponds for fish! On Anse Vata, you’ll also find work-out facilities, and a great tree-lined promenade along the water’s edge for a stroll with family or friends.