Karryon’s MARK HARADA visits New Caledonia and finds there’s far more to this Pacific paradise than beaches and baguettes (although they’re both fantastique!). Here’s why Aussies should put New Cal on their holiday radar this year – and why there’s possibly never been a better time to go.
It’s close, like really close
Most Aussies know New Caledonia is nearby; many of them don’t realise, however, exactly how close it is. From Sydney, a nonstop flight will get you there in 2.5 hours. From Brisbane, it’s an even shorter trip. Some East Coast Australians even hop on over for long weekends; it’s just that convenient.
New Cal’s proximity also means there’s very little difference in time zones – another big plus.
Read a review of my experience onboard the national carrier, Aircalin here.
It’s (surprisingly) affordable

Make no mistake, New Caledonia is by and large a premium travel experience. That’s part of its appeal. But it certainly shouldn’t deter anyone on a budget from holidaying on its golden shores.
Flights to the country are comparable in price to any of its Pacific neighbours (as little as around $550 return during sales), premium hotels like Le Méridien Noumea Resort & Spa, DoubleTree by Hilton Noumea and Château Royal Beach Resort & Spa don’t come with premium price tags (think around $300 per night), and many of the properties are self-contained – meaning holidaymakers can self-cater (and save money).
To this end (and as a bonus… because grocery shopping abroad is a thing now) visitors can stock up at any number of famous French supermarket chains also in Noumea – such as Auchan, Géant and Carrefour – and patisseries like L’Atelier Gourmand.
For a really French experience, grab some ‘fromage’ from the large (and we mean, large!) cheese delis, some condiments and a few baguettes to enjoy by the seaside or from the comfort of your apartment.
And if you’re eating out, don’t be fooled by some of the prices, because the serving sizes are mostly huge – even for someone with my larger-than-average appetite!
It’s safe… really


After experiencing a rough patch last year, New Caledonia is well and truly open for business in 2025 – and the key to this is its safety.
My experience in the country is like it is in any other nation in the region – one of feeling safe, with just a little vigilance required, which is no more than in most destinations.
Underlining its return to normality, in January, Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) downgraded its travel advice for the country to its second-lowest level of travel advice.
Making a difference


New Caledonia’s tourism industry needs visitors to return – and as the country’s second-largest market before last year (only behind France) Australians play a key role in its rebirth.
Yes, New Cal isn’t as reliant on tourism as some of its neighbours, but the sector still supports thousands of jobs and livelihoods in the island nation – from accommodation owners and tour guides to even retail outlets. So your dollars not only do good for you, but for the locals too.
Bragging rights


In 2023, around 30,000 Aussies visited New Caledonia. And while that was a record, it’s a figure that still pales in comparison to the number of Australians visiting Bali, Fiji and many other nearby destinations.
All of this means a trip to New Caledonia comes not only with incredible stories but many that are untold among friends and family or around the watercooler. And who doesn’t like to boast, even just a little, about their travels?
New experiences


With the new year, and a fresh start for tourism, come new experiences. This is led by a smorgasbord of new restaurants, bars and cafes like Port Moselle’s Bar en Mer, Anse Vata’s La Cocotte, Le Surf Greens & Coffee and Le Rendez-Vous du Faubourg in the heart of Noumea’s historic quarter. They’re all new and all cool.
While I’m in town, I get to try out the recently opened Elysium Restaurant with views over Anse Vata Bay. Expect tasty Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, cocktails and a warm welcome by experienced hospitality pro, Maitre d Patrick.
Elsewhere, the Noumea Beach Car service, with its cute pink electric mini mokes and beach buggies, has made its post-pandemic return, as has the Bourail Shuttle Service, offering electric motorbike rentals. There’s also a new treetops experience at the Giant Ferns Park in Farino.
For hotel stays, the Hilton Noumea La Promenade Residences has debuted its refurbed apartments. So expect this family favourite to become even more popular.
Noumea now


Noumea offers the only truly city experience in the South Pacific, meaning visitors can enjoy a dose of urban sophistication alongside its beachside vibes.
In the New Cal capital, you can hit up French cafés and patisseries (croissants by the sea? Yes, please!), visit local markets selling tropical fruits, fresh seafood and artisanal crafts, or wine and dine at countless top-notch establishments. And there are no shortage of those – would the French have it any other way?
Then there are the cultural experiences like the outstanding Tjibaou Cultural Centre (showcasing the country’s Kanak culture), the redesigned Maritime Museum of New Caledonia and the soon-to-open (and already impressive-looking) Museum of New Caledonia.
Food & a Francophile’s dream


Where else can Aussies immerse themselves in authentic French culture in around three hours?
Driving around Noumea (on the right side of the road too) feels as close to the South of France as you’re going to get. At times, as the high ratio of Peugeots and Citroens whizz by, it’s almost surreal.
You’ll also obviously hear French everywhere you go, so will get to practice a few phrases while exploring.
Most importantly, there’s the food and drink culture.


From fresh breakfast baguettes and pastries to haute cuisine by night, you’ll be left sated with cuisine as good as that in France. And when it comes to the seafood, it’s even better here.
Combine this with local Kanak ingredients like root vegetables and coconut in all its forms, and you have the epitome of fusion food.
For a wine bar that wouldn’t look out of place in Paris, check out Bar Le Chai de l’Hippodrome with its contemporary yet bohemian feel. The wine list here is seriously good, as is the typical French fare – I dine on a charcuterie and cheese board. And the service is anything but snooty, with the charming co-owner, Romain generous with his time and thoughtful in answering any questions I have about the menu. If you’re lucky, you might even get a peek at the impressive wine cellar.
New Caledonia Tourism Australia Country Manager Rebecca Marchal tells me this place is a favourite among the Aussie travel trade. And I can see why. Even on a Monday night, the wine bar is bustling, mostly with locals – and it’s not even on the waterfront.


Its beaches
New Caledonia’s beaches aren’t just the biggest drawcards for visitors, they’re also the centre of activity for residents – from kite-surfing to seaside picnics and everything in between. So by simply chilling on one of its beaches, you’ll be immersed in local life, which is how people are increasingly looking to travel.
Whether it’s the vibrant shores of Baie des Citrons and Anse Vata or the more tranquil coastlines in Lifou and Isle de Pines, be prepared for some serious flop ’n’ drop time… if that’s what you’re after.
All of this isn’t to mention what’s going on underwater – like coral reefs teeming with marine life.


Natural diversity
From rolling mountains to blue lagoons, lush rainforests to remote islands, New Caledonia is as diverse as anywhere in the Pacific.
Ideal for diving and snorkelling, its UNESCO-listed coral reefs are well-documented.


But there’s also the stunning Blue River Provincial Park – home to the rare Cagou bird and prehistoric trees, and the red earth of the south with its dramatic landscapes perfect for hiking and 4WD adventures.
On my visit to Lifou, the largest of the Loyalty Islands, I discover a white sand beach around almost every bend along its beautiful coastal drive. And it’s as if I’M discovering them, so unspoilt are they. Come to Lifou, and you can be the first to discover them too.


Karryon was a guest of New Caledonia Tourism with support from Atout France and Aircalin. All images by Mark Harada
While in New Caledonia, the writer stayed at the Château Royal Beach Resort & Spa and Hôtel Le Lagon in Noumea and at the Hotel Drehu Village in Lifou.
Read more about how New Caledonia is ready to welcome back tourists in our exclusive report here.