Best things to do in Noumea
Find out more about those top places in Noumea
Located Southwest of the Pacific Ocean, New Caledonia remains one of the best tourist destination in its region. The archipelago which is part of the Melanesia sub region is a French territory and it is known for its pristine beaches, marine-life-rich lagoon and diversified culture.
If you are looking to enjoy the island lifestyle of tour packages and luxury resorts, or just a quiet budget friendly place to relax, New Caledonia is one of the few destinations in the Pacific region where you can get both.
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Fort Teremba
Located near Moindou, the Fort Teremba is one of the many sites in New Caledonia that had a strong part to play in the nation’s history. The former military fort and prison was built in 1871, under the orders of Governor Eugene Gaultier de la Richerie and was one of the primary locations for the Kanak revolutions. Neglected, the fort was finally restored and classified as a national monument – it hosts the Fort Teremba celebrations held every October honoring the revolt.
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Blue River Provincial Park
Founded in 1980, the Blue River Provincial Park is a must-visit. The park is a part of the Upper Yate Fauna Reserve, it features several rivers, waterfalls, and water holes. But undoubtedly the main attraction of the park is it flora and fauna presence with a high rate of biodiversity including a thousand-year-old tree. While visiting stop at the “Maision du Parc” a small museum set up to educate visitors about the environment and displaying several exhibitions in relating to the park.
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Jean – Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre
Built to celebrate the Kanak people, it is the best architectural work in the country and is named after Jean-Marie Tjibaou - who was one of the main leaders in the nations fight for freedom from the French Government. The building designed by Renzo Piano was constructed to mimic the villages of the local people, with its interior and exterior having traditional outlook. The centre in recent years serves has a museum, a library, and theatre, making it the number one stop for tourists looking to immersed themselves in the Kanak and New Caledonian cultures.
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Beaches
A trip to any island would be incomplete without exploring its beaches and luckily New Caledonia has an abundance of them. With several activities to engage in, it is one of the best ways to spend the weekends. The popular of all is the Anse Vata beach in Noumea and the Fayaoue beach of Ouvea.
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Oumagne Caves
Located north of the Isle of Pines, the caves are one of the marvels of New Caledonia should not be missed. Also, named the Cave of Queen, it is filled with stalagmite and stalactites - it is believed that the wife of a local chief took refuge there during inter tribal conflicts in 1855. With the help of a guide visitors can go into the deeper areas of the cave for a full experience.
