Just 12 months post-earthquake, Vanuatu’s tourism scene is bouncing back, with new resorts, reopened icons, and a recent cheeky campaign that reminded Aussies why it’s worth the short hop.
Demand in Australia for the South Pacific archipelago of 83 islands is growing rapidly, helped by a clear message: Vanuatu is open, refreshed, and closer than you think.
In September 2025, the Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) launched one of its boldest campaigns to date, The Wake‑Up Call, designed to reposition the destination with quirky humour and energy.
Fronted by dry-witted Kiwi comedian Ray O’Leary, the hilarious campaign followed a “reluctant (suit-wearing) traveller” who slowly discovered just how good Vanuatu really is, complete with waterfalls, volcanoes and direct flights.
The eight-week digital push, backed by social and programmatic media, aimed to reach over 9.3 million Australians. It was described by VTO CEO Adela Issachar Aru as “a cheeky smile” inviting Aussies and Kiwis to rediscover Vanuatu for adventure, connection and culture.
Now concluded, the campaign has seemingly already helped drive genuine interest: Ignite Travel Group reports that bookings are up 29 per cent year-over-year, while VTO confirms a 27 per cent increase in Australian arrivals in the first eight months of 2025, already overtaking 2024’s total.
Which resorts and restaurants are opening or returning?
In 2026, a mix of major restorations and new boutique properties are expected to come online, particularly on Efate.
Set to open next year:
- The Grand Hotel & Casino, centrally located in Port Vila, is nearing completion of a large-scale restoration and will reopen as a refreshed harbourfront icon for leisure and business guests alike.
- Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu is undergoing extensive refurbishment, with a re-launch planned by mid-2026. A revitalised accommodation wing will bring new energy to this family-friendly favourite.
- Turtle Cove Villas, a boutique development on Efate’s northern coast, is scheduled to open in January 2026. With four self-contained villas, a pool and onsite restaurant, it’s positioned for relaxed, independent travel.
Recently relaunched properties include:
- E’Nauwi Beach Resort, which opened southwest of Efate in November, offering 16 beachfront bungalows, a restaurant, bar and spa.
- The Havannah Vanuatu, an adults-only luxury resort, also reopened in November after being offline for nearly a year, bringing back its signature romantic serenity.
- Tamanu on the Beach, located on Efate’s south coast, returned in November with newly built villas following a two-month renovation.
- Mali Beach Club, a new restaurant and bar on Mele Beach, is offering beachside cocktails and pizza just 30 minutes from Port Vila.
How are flights adapting to the renewed demand?
- Qantas (QF) will increase to daily Brisbane–Port Vila services from March 2026
- Solomon Airlines (IE) is adding two more weekly flights on the Brisbane–Espiritu Santo route
- Virgin Australia (VA) is operating up to 12 weekly services between Brisbane and Port Vila during the festive period
Combined, this represents over a 30 per cent increase in peak-season capacity compared to 2024, significantly improving travel flexibility.
The Wake-Up Call campaign, although now wrapped up, helped reposition Vanuatu as an easy escape that still offers genuine, grounded experiences. It reframed the destination not just as relaxing, but as “real and ready”, ideal for advisors wanting to pitch a high-satisfaction island trip without the over-tourism baggage.
Vanuatu Tourism Office’s CEO Adela Issachar Aru said Australian tourism has been instrumental to the destination’s recovery and is looking forward to welcoming even more Australians in 2026, thanks to new accommodation offerings, restaurants and experiences.
“We’ve already seen a 27 per cent increase in Australian arrivals during the first eight months of 2025, overtaking total arrival numbers in 2024. We are so grateful for the support from our Australian neighbours, which has boosted Vanuatu’s recovery following the earthquake.
“We’re excited to start the new year with the reopening of major accommodations in Efate and the introduction of new dining options.”
Crucially, over 75 per cent of Australian visitors to Vanuatu book through agents or wholesalers, according to VTO. That gives travel sellers a renewed edge in shaping itineraries, from boutique beach villas to multi-generational packages.
For more information, head to www.vanuatu.travel/au
KARRYON UNPACKS: Vanuatu’s blend of resort reboots, flight uplift, and bold campaign momentum is more than a rebuild. For travel advisors, it’s a chance to put the close-to-home South Pacific standout back on top-of-mind itineraries with fresh product and punchy appeal.
