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Havannah Harbour
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Havannah Harbour, located on the western side of Efate Island, is a pristine deep-water anchorage that served as a critical strategic asset during World War II. In 1942, the United States Navy recognized the harbor's natural protection and depth, establishing it as a major fleet base for the South Pacific operations. At its peak, the harbor sheltered hundreds of Allied vessels, including massive aircraft carriers and battleships, as they prepared for engagements in the Solomon Islands. The surrounding shoreline was heavily developed with fuel depots, repair shops, and recreational facilities for the thousands of stationed servicemen. Today, the harbor is a tranquil destination, yet it remains littered with wartime relics, ranging from submerged machinery to concrete foundations hidden in the jungle. Its historical legacy is a defining element of the region's identity, marking the period when Vanuatu was at the forefront of global conflict. It is now a focal point for both historical study and high-end eco-tourism.
- Location: Vanuatu
- Top sights: Tanoliu SDA church · Haos Kingdom o Jehova's Witnes · WW II Museum
- Nearby: Mangaliliu Village History (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 211 | 190 | 237 | 222 | 127 | 109 | 76 | 66 | 67 | 107 | 116 | 147 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
This expansive natural harbour on the island of Efate holds immense historical significance as a major World War II base for the massive United States naval fleet in the Pacific.
Visiting
The entire harbor area is generally open to the public for exploration, although specific historic military remnants might be scattered and are best explored alongside a local historical guide.
Where to view it
Excellent, sweeping panoramic views of the entire sheltered bay and its exceptionally calm waters can be appreciated from the winding coastal road that runs along the northern shoreline of Efate.
Local products
Visitors can frequently find small roadside market stalls nearby offering fresh tropical fruits, locally woven traditional crafts, and occasional historical souvenirs from the surrounding villages.
Active season
The area remains particularly tranquil throughout the entire year, but visiting during the cooler, dry season from May to October features the absolute most comfortable conditions for historical exploration.
Nearby
Combine your insightful historical tour of the harbor with a relaxing afternoon at the nearby pristine white sand beaches, or embark on a snorkeling trip to discover the bustling coastal coral reefs.
Geography
Facts
- Named after the British ship HMS Havannah, which visited in 1850.
- Served as a primary staging area for the Battle of the Coral Sea.
- The harbor is deep enough to accommodate the largest aircraft carriers.
- Wartime debris, known as 'white glass,' is still found by divers.
- The US Seabees built extensive infrastructure around the harbor in 1942.
- It is currently a site for significant marine conservation initiatives.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Havannah Harbour (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes Havannah Harbour special?
It is a historically significant natural harbor with deep water, used during WWII.
Is there a visitor center?
No, there is no official center, but the site is known for its history.
Is it good for swimming?
The water is calm and clean, well-suited for swimming and snorkeling.
How do I get there?
It is best accessible by car or rented boat from Port Vila.
When is the best time to visit?
During the day in dry weather is the most pleasant.
Havannah Harbour: where is it located?
Havannah Harbour is located in Vanuatu.
Havannah Harbour: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tanoliu SDA church, Haos Kingdom o Jehova's Witnes, WW II Museum.
Havannah Harbour: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Havannah Harbour: why is it worth visiting?
Havannah Harbour, located on the western side of Efate Island, is a pristine deep-water anchorage that served as a critical strategic asset during World War II.
Explore with Plizio
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Mangaliliu Village History
A historic coastal village on Efate serving as the gateway to Chief Roi Mata's UNESCO World Heritage site.
History & landmarks
Port Vila City Hall
The City Hall is the administrative center for the municipal government of the capital, Port Vila.
Fels Cave
A monumental cave on Lelepa Island, considered the place where the legendary Chief Roi Mata died in the 13th century.
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Moso Island
Moso Island forms a natural barrier for Havannah Harbour on Efate.
Lelepa Island Reefs
The waters around Lelepa host pristine coral gardens and are part of Chief Roi Mata's UNESCO World Heritage site.
Lelepa Island
Lelepa Island is a rugged island off Efate featuring significant limestone caves and pristine snorkeling spots.
Hat Island (Eretoka)
This distinctive island is part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and the burial place of Chief Roi Mata.
Chief Roi Mata's Domain
This UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses several locations on Efate, Lelepa, and Artok islands associated with the chief's life.
Mele Cascades Legend Site
A natural landmark deeply rooted in the oral history and legends of the Mele people.
Nature
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Moso Island Turtle Sanctuary
Moso Island serves as a critical nesting site for Green and Hawksbill sea turtles in the South Pacific.
Mele Cascades
Mele Cascades is a series of terraced waterfalls on Efate Island.
Mount McDonald
Mount McDonald is the highest peak on the island of Efate.
Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary
This sanctuary off Efate is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and the world's only underwater post office.
Nguna-Pele Marine Protected Area
A community-managed region protecting seagrass meadows, mangroves, and volcanic reefs.
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Mount Zeila
Mount Zeila is the highest peak on the volcanic island of Nguna.
More places
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Port Havannah Dugongs
The deep natural harbor of Port Havannah is known for its seagrass meadows that feed rare dugongs.
Havannah Shipping Channel
A deep, sheltered waterway north of Efate used as a strategic anchorage and regional shipping route.
Havannah Seaplane Ramp
These relics in Havannah Harbour are from a US seaplane base used during World War II.
Mele Cascades Nature Park
These limestone terraces and waterfalls house a rich flora featuring tropical ferns and rare orchid species.
Efate Quarry
A major source of coral stone and basalt for road construction and the building industry in Port Vila.
Bauerfield Logistics Hub
The air cargo hub at Port Vila's international airport, managing the import of time-sensitive goods and equipment.
Bauerfield Airport Terminal
The main terminal of Port Vila's international airport is the primary gateway to the country.
Malapoa College
Malapoa College is one of the most prestigious secondary education institutions in Port Vila.