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Iririki Island Resort

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Iririki Island Resort (Vanuatu)

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Iririki Island is a prominent private island located in the heart of Port Vila's harbor, hosting one of Vanuatu's most iconic luxury resorts. Historically, the island holds great significance as it served as the seat of the British Residency during the colonial era. The former residence of the British Commissioner still stands atop the island's highest point, serving as a reminder of the Anglo-French Condominium period. Today, Iririki is synonymous with high-end tourism, offering a blend of upscale accommodations and pristine natural environments. The island is just a short ferry ride from downtown Port Vila, providing remarkable panoramic views of the bay and the surrounding volcanic mountains. Beyond its leisure facilities, Iririki is an important location for marine conservation, with animated coral reefs accessible directly from its shores. The island's development mirrors Vanuatu's transition from a colonial outpost to a modern, independent tourism destination.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C282828272625242425252627
Rain mm211190237222127109766667107116147

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The island is a private resort, entry is allowed only for guests. Day visitors need a prior reservation or may not be admitted.
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Typical hours
Opening hours follow resort operations. Typically facilities are open from morning to evening, for non-guests only by arrangement.
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Photography
Photography is allowed for guests within the resort. Drone flights are not permitted without authorization.
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Time needed
As a day visitor you can arrange your stay flexibly, usually a few hours are typical. Overnight guests typically spend a full day or longer.
Combine with
Combine the visit with Port Vila, which lies directly opposite. The nearby Mele Market gives local crafts.
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Getting there
The island is accessible by water taxi from Port Vila. The crossing takes just a few minutes.
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Insider tip
Book your stay well in advance as the resort is very popular. Ask about day passes for pool and beach access.

Geography

Coordinates
-17.74220, 168.30950

Facts

  • The island covers an area of approximately 69 hectares (170 acres).
  • The historic British Residency building was completed in 1910.
  • Iririki is connected to Port Vila by a free, 24-hour ferry service.
  • During World War II, the island was utilized as a strategic lookout post.
  • The island's resort underwent major redevelopment following Cyclone Pam in 2015.
  • The surrounding waters are a designated marine sanctuary with diverse coral life.

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 Iririki Island Resort (10)

Tranquillity Dive

Dive school and excursions around Iririki Island, suitable for beginners and advanced divers.

Paton Memorial Church (PMC)

Church in Port Vila built in memory of Reverend Paton, Presbyterian denomination.

Quartier Chinois

Chinatown in Port Vila with shops and restaurants.

Musée National de Vanuatu🏛 museum

National Museum in Port Vila, displaying artifacts and cultural history of Vanuatu.

National Archives and National Library🏛 museum

National archives and library in Port Vila, preserving documents and books.

Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur

Roman Catholic cathedral in Port Vila, seat of the bishop.

Seaside Paama Presbyterian Church

Presbyterian church near the coast, serving the Paama community.

No. 1 SDA Church Building

Seventh-day Adventist church building in Port Vila, used for worship services.

Chief's Nakamal

Meeting building of the national council of chiefs, designed as a traditional nakamal.

Top blo hill

Hilltop viewpoint offering views over Port Vila and the harbor.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How do you get to Iririki Island?
A free boat shuttle runs regularly from Port Vila.
Can you visit the island as a day guest?
Yes, there are day passes for non-hotel guests.
What can you do there?
Swimming, snorkeling and enjoying the view of Port Vila.
Is the island family friendly?
Yes, there are many facilities for children and safe beaches.
Are there restaurants there?
Yes, several restaurants offer various dishes.
Iririki Island Resort: where is it located?
Iririki Island Resort is located in Vanuatu.
Iririki Island Resort: what is there to see?
Highlights include Tranquillity Dive, Paton Memorial Church (PMC), Quartier Chinois.
Iririki Island Resort: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Iririki Island Resort: why is it worth visiting?
Iririki Island is a prominent private island located in the heart of Port Vila's harbor, hosting one of Vanuatu's most iconic luxury resorts.
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