The Best Luxury Resorts in Vanuatu

The exclusivity of Ratua Island Resort and Spa is immediately apparent – boats or light aircraft are the only ways to reach the private island. When you do arrive, it will feel as if you’ve reached the end of the earth. The 59ha (146-acre) barefoot paradise is home to a cluster of ultra-luxe wooden villas set beside a sapphire lagoon. A day spa, a yacht club and meals made with organic produce are the cherries on top.

Warwick Le Lagon makes a strong case for being one of the top luxury hotels in Vanuatu. Flanking the shores of Erakor Lagoon, the overwater villas, which couples with love, have direct water access and deep-soak tubs. When in need of pampering, retreat to the Oasis Day Spa for a massage or a facial with locally sourced Volcanic Earth products.

Home to the first – and only – underwater post office in the world, it’s safe to assume that you’ll spend most of your time at Hideaway Island Resort in your swimmers. Take advantage of the on-site PADI training centre for scuba divers, snorkel to see tropical fish or simply sunbathe on the beach – there will be no one else around, as this resort in Vanuatu sits on its own private island.

Carved into a cliff face beside Erakor Lagoon, the Ramada Resort places you close enough to the capital of Vanuatu to explore, but far enough away to truly relax. The tranquil waters make it a great spot for families. Kids will love the kayaks and paddleboards on offer, as well as the fire dancing shows come nightfall. Did we mention there’s also a swim-up bar?

After you’ve experienced a romantic dinner with sand between your toes, it will be hard to go back to reality. Breakas Beach Resort offers just that in a private cove on the Pango peninsula. Choose between a beachfront or tropical-garden villa. Don’t leave without booking a traditional Ni-Vanuatu massage, which will ensure you feel relaxed for the remainder of your stay.

A truly romantic option, the Havannah Vanuatu is perfect for honeymooners and loved-up couples. Expect champagne, seaside candlelit dinners, private-island picnics and massages for couples as well. To add an extra dose of luxury, a stay in one of the deluxe waterfront villas – which comes with a private pool, a beach, a sun deck and an outdoor tub – is a must.

White Grass is an adventure lover’s haven. Stay in a thatched bure, and you’ll be perfectly placed for exploring the volcanic island of Tanna. It’s home to some of the best scuba diving in Vanuatu. Book into the on-site dive centre that will take you to sea caves and reefs filled with green turtles and resident dugong. Land lovers will relish in the resort day spa – or, if you’re up to it, a volcano safari can be arranged.

Sitting prettily on a private island, just minutes from Port Vila, Iririki Island Resort and Spa is flanked by the crystalline waters of Mele Bay. With overwater bungalows, luxury penthouses and poolside suites, there’s something here to cater to every traveller. Book a table at the intimate Azure restaurant – all meals here are made with ingredients sourced from the garden market on Iririki or locally from the mainland.

Imagine miniature Hamptons-style beach homes plonked in the middle of the Pacific. That’s what you’ll find at Tamanu, a minimalist-chic haven, just 20 minutes from the capital of Vanuatu. Think shuttered windows, white tongue-and-groove walls, rattan furnishings and a two-person deep-soak tub in the bathroom. A real highlight is the spa, known as one of the best on the island. Opt for the signature lava body scrub, made with volcanic ash.

Aore Island Resort makes for a secluded stay, just off the coast of Espiritu Santo, the largest island in Vanuatu. Here, the brilliantly blue waters hold vibrant coral reefs and wrecks to dive to. Alternatively, climb aboard a traditional outrigger canoe to explore above the surface. On land, choose from garden or beachfront bungalows, each with a terrace to curl up on with a book.