Things to do in Aore Island
Discover the best attractions and experiences Aore Island has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Espiritu Santo’s wartime history and coastal relics that shaped Aore and its surroundings.
Million Dollar Point
A famous WWII-era site where U.S. Navy gear was dumped into the sea; a short visit reveals a storied past.
SS President Coolidge wreck
A renowned WWII wreck dive site off Santo, offering dramatic underwater history in clear waters.
Espiritu Santo WWII relics trail
A curated route along coastal markers and remnants from the Santo campaign.
Museums
Learn about Santo’s heritage, including its WWII past and local crafts, through small museums.
Luganville War Museum
Exhibits and artifacts related to Santo’s WWII history and local culture.
Santo Cultural Centre
Displays on island traditions, crafts, and everyday life.
Espiritu Santo Maritime Museum
Collections highlighting the sea-faring history around Santo.
Religious Monuments
Visit the island’s historic churches and faith communities.
St. Michael’s Cathedral, Luganville
A historic church offering a glimpse into local faith and community life.
Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Church
A coastal parish church with traditional Pacific worship traditions.
All Saints Anglican Church, Luganville
An active church with weekly services and local gatherings.
National & Theme Parks
Natural landscapes and protected beaches around Aore offer scenic escapes.
Matevulu Blue Hole
A striking freshwater swimming hole set in lush surroundings; perfect for a refreshing dip.
Aore Island Marine Reserve
Protected coastal area with thriving reefs ideal for snorkeling and wildlife viewing.
Porter’s Nature Trails (Santo coast)
Coastal and forest trails offering birdwatching and scenic overlooks.
Neighborhoods
Discover local life in Luganville and nearby coastal hamlets and villages.
Luganville Waterfront
Stroll the lively harbor area, watch fishermen, and sample casual eats.
Aore Village Life
Visit small coastal communities to learn daily routines and crafts.
Espiritu Santo Hinterland Trails
Quiet backroads and hillside lanes for a relaxed exploration.
Free Things to Do
Many of Aore’s charms are free to enjoy: beaches, views, and outdoor spots.
Beach time on Aore Island
Lay back on pristine beaches, sunbathe, or swim in calm lagoons.
Sunrise at a coastal lookout
Hike or stroll to a vantage point for panoramic sea views.
Shore snorkeling
Explore colorful reefs and marine life right from the beach.
Gastronomy
Taste fresh island flavors, seafood, and tropical fruits at markets and beaches.
Fresh tropical fruit tastings
Sample a seasonal selection of local fruits straight from the stalls.
Beachfront seafood barbecue
Enjoy grilled fish or prawns with island sides by the water.
Kava ceremony experience
Participate in a traditional kava ceremony with locals.
Nightlife
Relax at seaside bars and waterfront spots with sunset views.
Seaside sunset bar at Aore Island Resort
Unwind with a tropical drink as the sun goes down.
Luganville waterfront evenings
Casual bars and cafes along the harbor with live music.
Beachside live music
Relax to local bands at a relaxed beach venue.
Entertainment
Enjoy cultural performances, storytelling, and outdoor movie nights.
Cultural dance performances
Evening showcases of island dances and costumes.
Traditional storytelling nights
Hear legends and history shared by local elders.
Outdoor cinema under the stars
Seasonal film nights at the resort or beach.
Sports
Active travelers can snorkel, kayak, and hike along coastal trails.
Snorkeling the reef around Aore
Swim with tropical fish in clear, calm waters.
Kayaking along the coast
Paddle between coves and mangrove-lined shores.
Coastal hikes and viewpoints
Trail routes offering sweeping ocean vistas.
Off the Track
Go off the beaten path with village visits and nature outings.
Village crafts workshop
Learn traditional weaving or carving from local artisans.
Guided nature walk inland
Explore forest zones and discover native flora and fauna.
Private boat trip to a secluded beach
Escape to a pristine cove for a day of sun and surf.