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Hideaway Island
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Hideaway Island, locally known as Mele Island, is a small coral atoll situated in Mele Bay just off the coast of Efate island. The island is globally renowned for its underwater post office, established in 2003, which allows visitors to mail waterproof postcards directly from the seabed. Geographically, the island is surrounded by a protected marine sanctuary that has maintained a strict ban on fishing and coral harvesting for decades. These conservation efforts have resulted in exceptional biodiversity, featuring over 400 species of fish within the surrounding reefs. Historically, the island served as a retreat for local chiefs before being developed for tourism in the mid-20th century. Today, Hideaway Island combines environmental preservation with modern hospitality infrastructure and remains a key location for marine biology research and recreational diving.
- Location: Vanuatu
- Top sights: Mele Bay · Mormons · Mele Beach
- Nearby: Ifira Island Traditional Village (6 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
Visiting
The island is open to visitors daily. You can reach it by a short boat trip from Efate. Explore the entire atoll and swim in the sea.
Typical hours
The island is typically accessible during daylight hours. Exact opening times vary seasonally, so it's best to inquire locally.
Photography
Photography is allowed across the entire island. Underwater shots of the bustling coral reefs are especially worthwhile.
Time needed
Plan at least half a day for your visit. For snorkelers and divers, a full day may be more appropriate.
Combine with
Combine the trip with a visit to Port Vila on Efate. The nearby Mele Cascades are also worth a detour.
Getting there
Access is by boat, which runs regularly from Efate. The crossing takes about ten to fifteen minutes.
Insider tip
Bring your own snorkeling gear, as local rental fees can be high. An underwater photo light can better capture the reef colors.
Geography
Facts
- The underwater post office is located at a depth of 3 meters.
- The island is situated only 100 meters from the main Efate coastline.
- The marine sanctuary was established as early as the 1990s.
- Visitors can reach the island on foot via a sandbar during low tide.
- Over 400 distinct species of fish have been cataloged in the reefs.
- The official opening of the underwater post office took place in May 2003.
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 Hideaway Island (6)
The Kava House
Attraction on Hideaway Island, Vanuatu.
Secret Gardens Cultural Centre and Native Reserve
Showcases Vanuatu's early history, artwork, wildlife, fauna and custom stories.
Wet n Wild Adventure Park
Adventure park on Hideaway Island, Vanuatu.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Is there an underwater post office there?
Yes, that is the world's only underwater post office.
Is it suitable for snorkeling?
Yes, it is a fantastic marine protected area.
Do I have to pay for entry?
Yes, there is a small fee for access to the reserve.
Are there accommodations there?
Yes, there is a resort right on the island.
How do you get over from the mainland?
A short boat ride that runs regularly.
Hideaway Island: where is it located?
Hideaway Island is located in Vanuatu.
Hideaway Island: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mele Bay, Mormons, Mele Beach.
Hideaway Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Hideaway Island: why is it worth visiting?
Hideaway Island, locally known as Mele Island, is a small coral atoll situated in Mele Bay just off the coast of Efate island.
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Nearby cities
History & landmarks
Port Vila City Hall
The City Hall is the administrative center for the municipal government of the capital, Port Vila.
Hideaway Island Post Office
The world's only underwater post office is located in the marine park of Hideaway Island.
Mele Village Nakamal
The Mele Nakamal is one of the largest traditional meeting houses located near Port Vila.
Mele Village Traditional Grounds
Historical gathering grounds of Mele Village, the largest village on Efate with a rich Polynesian exclave history.
Mele Cascades Legend Site
A natural landmark deeply rooted in the oral history and legends of the Mele people.
British High Commission
This diplomatic building represents the United Kingdom in Port Vila.
Iririki Island Resort
This private island across from Port Vila is a landmark and formerly housed the British High Commissioner.
Port Vila Market
The waterfront market building is a central gathering place for locals and tourists in the capital city.
Nature
Hideaway Island Marine Sanctuary
This sanctuary off Efate is famous for its vibrant coral reefs and the world's only underwater post office.
Mele Cascades
Mele Cascades is a series of terraced waterfalls on Efate Island.
🗺️
Erakor Lagoon Mangroves
This shallow lagoon system serves as a critical nursery for many reef fish species and hosts seagrass beds.
More places
Efate Quarry
A major source of coral stone and basalt for road construction and the building industry in Port Vila.
Mele Cascades Nature Park
These limestone terraces and waterfalls house a rich flora featuring tropical ferns and rare orchid species.
Malapoa College
Malapoa College is one of the most prestigious secondary education institutions in Port Vila.
Tanna Coffee Roastery
Processing facility for Arabica coffee grown on Tanna Island, representing one of Vanuatu's key premium exports.
Port Vila Financial Centre
The heart of Vanuatu's offshore financial sector, providing services to international businesses and corporations.
French War Memorial
This memorial in Port Vila commemorates the soldiers from Vanuatu who fell during World War II.
Port Vila Main Wharf
The primary international gateway for Vanuatu's maritime trade, handling container ships and major cruise liners.
Lapetasi Multi-Purpose Wharf
A modern container facility in Port Vila opened in 2018 to enhance international trade handling capabilities.