Efate, Vanuatu Travel Guide – History, Travel, Hotels, and More!

Welcome to Efate, the tropical heart of Vanuatu! This beautiful island is home to Port Vila, the nation’s capital and a perfect base for your Pacific adventure.

Efate offers visitors a mix of stunning beaches, clear lagoons, and rich cultural experiences that blend British and French colonial influences with traditional island life. You can spend your days relaxing at seaside resorts, ziplining through lush forests, or exploring the vibrant Port Vila Market where locals sell fresh produce and handmade crafts.

Efate 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Efate! Look for deals here:
Efate Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs

The Vanuatu Tourism Office recommends several must-see attractions around the island, from hidden swimming holes to volcanic landscapes. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal waters or chatting with friendly locals, Efate delivers an unforgettable island escape that will leave you planning your return before you’ve even left.

How To Get To Efate, Vanuatu

Efate is the main island of Vanuatu and home to the capital city of Port Vila. Getting there is easier than you might think!

Most international visitors arrive at Bauerfield International Airport in Port Vila. Direct flights connect Efate to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and other Pacific islands.

Once you’ve landed, getting around the island offers several options. Taxis are readily available at the airport and throughout Port Vila. They’re a convenient way to reach your accommodation.

Local Bus Options:

Cost: 150 VT per trip within Port Vila
Cost: 200+ VT to villages outside town
Type: Minivans marked with “B” on license plates

These local buses are actually minivans that follow flexible routes. Flag one down anywhere in town by waving your hand. They’re affordable and an interesting way to see the area!

For exploring North Efate, you might need to charter a bus or taxi as regular buses may not go there reliably. Ask at the Vanuatu Tourism Office in Port Vila for current information.

If you want to visit Nguna Island, take a car to Emua Wharf (about an hour from Port Vila) and then a 10-minute boat ride.

Some accommodations offer shuttle services, which can be helpful for locations outside the main town center.

What To See In Efate, Vanuatu

Efate offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The Blue Lagoon is a must-visit with its crystal-clear waters perfect for a refreshing swim. It’s one of the most photographed spots on the island!

Mele Cascades provides a stunning series of waterfalls where you can climb the natural steps and enjoy a dip in the pools. The trek up is easy and suitable for most fitness levels.

For cultural immersion, visit Ekasup Village where you can learn about traditional Vanuatu customs and witness fascinating demonstrations. The locals are incredibly welcoming and happy to share their heritage.

Don’t miss the National Museum of Vanuatu to understand the rich history of these islands. It’s small but packed with interesting artifacts and information.

Iririki Island sits just offshore from Port Vila and offers beautiful beaches. You can reach it via a short water taxi ride.

Beach lovers should head to Breakas Beach or Konanda Reef for excellent snorkeling opportunities. The colorful marine life will amaze you!

For accommodation, consider Paradise Point Escape or Banana Bay Beach Club which offer beachfront properties with outdoor swimming pools and private beach areas.

Papaya Villa provides a boutique resort experience with free WiFi and barbecue facilities. Their terrace offers spectacular sunset views.

After a day of exploration, enjoy dinner at Waves at Surfside where fresh seafood is the specialty. The beachside setting creates a perfect atmosphere for evening relaxation.

Read our articles on the best things to do in Shefa Province, Vanuatu and best restaurants in Shefa Province, Vanuatu for even more ideas!

Where to Stay in Shefa Province

Read our article on hotels near Shefa Province, Vanuatu for the best options for your stay. Here’s a short list of some options:

If you’re looking to stay in a vacation home, apartment, BnB, or VRBO in Shefa Province, Vanuatu, we recommend you search on VRBO, Hotels.com, and Booking.com for up-to-date options.

History Of Efate, Vanuatu

Efate’s rich history stretches back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests the island has been inhabited since at least 2000 BC, making it home to some of the oldest settlements in the Pacific.

The first inhabitants were Melanesian people who established communities across the island. These early settlers developed sophisticated maritime skills and cultural practices that continue to influence life on Efate today.

European contact began when a Spanish expedition, led by Portuguese navigator Fernandes de Queirós, arrived in the 1600s. This marked the beginning of occasional European visitors to Vanuatu’s shores.

The Wotanimanu myth offers a fascinating glimpse into Efate’s past. This local legend can be read as an allegorical account of historical events, including the arrival of people from the south by sea.

Efate is volcanic in origin and occupies 353 square miles (915 square km). As the main island of Vanuatu, it has played a central role in the nation’s development.

When you visit Efate, you’ll walk in the footsteps of the Lapita colonists who arrived during the late Holocene period. These seafaring people were part of a remarkable migration that extended as far east as Tonga.

Today, you can explore archaeological sites that connect you to this fascinating past. Local guides often share traditional stories that bring the island’s history to life in ways no textbook could.

Efate 2025 Deals!
Get a discount of 15% to 70% on accommodation in Efate! Look for deals here:
Efate Hotels, Apartments, B&Bs