New Caledonia is a fresh, exciting and hassle-free surf holiday destination close to Australia. The climate is warm, with sub-tropical water temps and powerful offshore reef breaks that can be world class on their day.  New Caledonia is like nowhere else, a registered UNESCO World Heritage lagoon. The west coast zone is one of the most beautiful landscapes within New Caledonia, notably containing the sublime lenticular reef which stretches from Bourail to Moindou. The main island, Grande Terre, boasts spectacular natural scenery, a true adventure playground. Jaw-dropping islands hosting a mix of French and Melanesian heritage reveals the perfect combination of amazing landscapes and superb hospitality.

Quick Facts

Uncrowded reef breaks that handle real size

Suits intermediate to experienced surfers

The capital Noumea offers a tropical cosmopolitan vibe

Where to surf

New Caledonia is surrounded by a 1700 km barrier reef, which counts 200 passes with surfing potential. The most consistent region is the southwest coast, as it offers the best swell and wind conditions. Charters will take you to most of the breaks and there are around 10 known breaks within 8 hours sailing from one end of the island to the other.

When to go

The best surf season is the Australian autumn and winter when southeast swells push swells up through the Tasman Seas straight to New Caledonia. All of the surf spots however are offshore and can be at the mercy of local winds. Luckily the predominant southeast trade winds are offshore on west coast where the best waves are located.

Attractions

The fishing is world class and when the wind picks up in the afternoon it’s a perfect time to get a GT or Wahu on the hook. As for the culture, the French colony is blessed with great food and wine. New Caledonia is also a great destination for golfing, kitesurfing, trekking and horseriding.

The Country

New Caledonia is a French territory comprising dozens of islands in the South Pacific. Discovered and named by explorer Captain James Cook in 1776, the island of New Caledonia became a French colony in 1853 and a French Overseas Territory in 1946. It’s known for its palm-lined beaches and marine-life-rich lagoon, which, at 24,000-sq.-km, is among the world’s largest. A massive barrier reef surrounds the main island, Grand Terre, a major scuba-diving destination, but New Caledonia isn’t just a tropical playground. There’s a charming mix of French and Melanesian: warm hospitality sitting beside European elegance, gourmet food beneath palm trees, sand, resorts, and bungalows. Long gorgeous beaches are backed by cafes and bars, with horizons that display tiny islets to attract day trippers. Be lured into kayaks or microlights, rock climb, sail, dive into a world of corals, canyons, caves and shipwrecks, go whale watching or snorkelling, or relax on the warm sand of a deserted isle. The capital, Nouméa, is home to French-influenced restaurants and luxury boutiques selling Parisian fashions. 

Getting There

The main airport, La Tontouta International Airport Nouméa (NOU), is 2.5 hours from Australia’s East Coast hubs of Brisbane (BNE) and Sydney (SYD). Multiple cruise itineraries also visit various islands. 

Travel Information

Time Zone

UTC+11

Currency

EUR

Calling code

+262

Electric

220V at 50 Hertz – Plug type F