'Everyone's rushing to Fiji, but this Pacific paradise has empty beaches and so much more.'

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I just got back from a tropical island getaway and honestly, the place blew me away. As my new expat friend Ben said, "It's like Fiji was in the 80s'".

I've never been to Fiji, but my friends have told me it's the kind of place you go and bunk in and don't leave your resort.

Although they do have stunning resorts, they're not why you visit this place. Rather, this is the kind of trip that's perfect for the curious solo traveller — someone who's looking for something a little more off the beaten track.

But also, my teen and tween-aged sons are blue-lagoon-with-envy they missed out. There are just so many activities for adventure-hungry kids (and grown-ups…)

It's not in any way crowded. In most instances, we were the only tourists, and there are so many wonderful, traditional, enriching experiences.

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My new tropical obsession? Vanuatu. And it's so much more than just a tropical island destination. It's often listed amongst the world's happiest countries, and I can see why.

They have a saying, "No hurry, no worry," which means that yes, everything runs on "island time", so you need to adopt the saying and go with the flow.

But also? You can escape on "island time" and immediately switch off and relax.

And you can't help but be happy there. It's a Pacific paradise.

From the incredible drama of an active volcano to the dazzling colours of tropical coral and fish; from huge stretches of untouched jungle to breathtaking blue lagoons and the relaxing sound of gentle waves on the beach, this place has everything.

Over 300,000 people call Vanuatu home, with the majority residing in rural villages and small towns where you get to experience real culture, not the staged stuff you find elsewhere. Comprised of 83 islands across the archipelago, Vanuatu's main island of Efate includes the nation's harbourside capital, Port Vila.

The official languages are Bislama, English, and French. Nearly everyone speaks English, so it's easy to get around and chat with locals.

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Getting to Vanuatu.

I flew from Sydney with Jetstar and it only took three hours! The low-cost carrier operates up to four flights a week from Sydney to Port Vila. The cost for a return flight is typically around $400 AUD, which is very reasonable for a Pacific island.

With direct flights from Brisbane (via Virgin or Qantas) and Sydney available to Port Vila, travellers tend to start their trip here before venturing out to some of the wilder islands like Tanna and Malekula.

Where to stay in Port Vila.

Mangoes Resort on the left, Breakas Resort on the right (take me back). Image: Supplied.

I stayed in two resorts during my four-night stay, and as I was not with my kids, they were for grown-ups only.

Mangoes Resort is serene, tropical, and offers a peaceful escape surrounded by pools, lush gardens and swaying palms. My garden-view bungalow cost $285 AUD per night.

Our last night here, we had an intimate, 'Trust The Chef' curated four-course degustation that featured exquisite local and international flavours thoughtfully curated by my beautiful new chef friend Taku.

Breakas Beach Resort has the most adorable garden and beachfront bungalows styled with traditional thatched roofs, open-air windows and an outdoor shower (bliss). I could hear the waves crashing as I went to sleep and woke up. The tropical garden room costs $335 AUD per night.

Next time I come back (with my kids), there are many family-friendly places to stay that typically start around $100 to $350 AUD per night, depending on the property, season, and room type.

What to do in Vanuatu: Beach and water.

The beaches near Port Vila have soft, white sands and clear, turquoise waters. They're never crowded — even during peak visiting times — so you really don't have to compete for space.

Several spots around Port Vila, including Mele Reef, Hideaway Island, and Pele Island, are great for snorkelling. Think vibrant coral gardens, crystal-clear waters, and heaps of marine life like parrotfish, triggerfish, clownfish, angelfish, and sea turtles.

Blue Lagoon.

Blue Lagoon, has to be seen to be believed. Image: Supplied.

I have never seen anything like it. Its captivating blue colour comes from the way the sunlight interacts with the limestone base and mineral-rich water, reflecting brilliant hues that seem to quite literally glow.

It's about a 45-minute drive from Port Vila and a popular day-trip destination for both families and groups of friends. There is an entrance fee, and is cash-only, so it's important to bring local currency. It's approximately $7 AUD per adult.

Waterfalls.

There are many beautiful waterfalls to visit around Port Vila, but we went to the Rarru Cascades as it's a 10-minute drive from the Blue Lagoon, so we smashed them out back to back.

I jumped off a rope swing, off a waterfall's edge and a six-metre platform into the most beautiful fresh water, surrounded by tranquil jungle.

Sailing Vanuatu.

Captain Bowie and I, and my beautiful friend Missy at 'mamas markets' Lelepa. Image: Sailing Vanuatu.

Sailing was one of many highlights that really captured the essence of adventure, culture, and genuine community connection.

Run by Aussie expats Ben and Emily (and their adorable dog Bowie), we were aboard their beautiful 60ft custom-built sailboat "Major Tom" (there were a lot of appreciated David Bowie references).

We sailed to secluded reefs (including a sunken plane site), snorkelled amongst vibrant coral and tropical fish, and enjoyed a delicious BBQ lunch while relaxing on the luxury day beds and hammocks on deck. We even had an appearance from a sea turtle.

During the five-hour sail (which is $199 AUD per adult and $99 AUD for kids 6-12) we were very privileged to be invited to the off-the-grid Island of Lelepa, a traditional village of about 800 people who all live off the land and work together.

We were brought there by Masten, who works for Sailing Vanuatu and whose father-in-law is the village chief. He proudly took us through his village to the "Mamas' Markets", run by Lelepa's respected elder women ("mamas") who sell local handicrafts and souvenirs.

These markets are cooperatives, where the proceeds provide for the village. I met the most beautiful three-year-old called Missy, and I fell in love with her and their beautiful village.

Ben and Emily's deep-rooted love and respect for Vanuatu and its people was contagious, and after a day on their tour I quite literally felt part of the family. I will never forget it.

Adventures for the thrill-seekers (me now).

An actual active volcano.

Climb every (volcano) yes, it was active and thrilling (scary but worth it). Image Supplied

We flew via private charter with Unity Airlines for a day trip to Tanna, a beautiful remote island full of traditional villages and home to the world's most accessible active volcano 'Yasur', which stands 361 metres tall. We drove by 4WD and then hiked to its smoking crater rim.

The whole experience was quite literally out of this world. Even the drive there — witnessing the different iterations of the jungle and how it morphed as we got closer to Yasur — was captivating. All that eery fog, rain and earth quite literally changing to black volcanic ash.

It was raining at the volcano site on the day we went (it creates its own weather system) so the smoke and steam meant we couldn't see the actual lava. But on a fine day, I've been assured you can see its almighty red glow.

The grumbling noises of an active volcano was a visceral catch-your-breath moment that I will never forget. It was Mother Nature at her most untamed and unbridled.

The produce on the Island of Tanna grows so quickly because the earth is so hot, and the flavours are remarkable. A visit to the local fresh produce market was the most visually stunning and vibrant display of colour and wonderment.

Vanuatu Jungle Zipline.

Initially, I thought the six ziplines and suspension bridges over canyons and ravines — where we zipped from platform to platform through lush jungle with magnificent views of Mele Bay and the surrounding islands — was scary.

Then, I was (peer and pride) pressured into jumping off the 'Canyon Swing'. I thought it was an actual rope-like swing, and I would be George of the Jungle.

I didn't realise that it was actually a free fall drop of nearly 70 metres until the rope (swing) kicked in…

I think it's the scariest and bravest thing I have ever done, and I'm still reeling from the adrenaline and the buzz of it. It was just an unforgettable experience.

River Kayaking.

Kayak on the left, zipline in the jungle on the right. Image Supplied

Kayaking down the gently flowing freshwater Rentapao River through lush tropical rainforest and local village areas, I had hours to get to know one of the guides from Vanuatu Ecotours. Ellora is a brilliant, clever and very cool woman, and over the course of the tour, I learnt so much about the history and people of Vanuatu. It was the people I met on this trip who have left such a lasting impression.

Where to eat and drink in Vanuatu.

Have a sunset cocktail at Stone Lounge on a stylish terrace with a pool and sweeping harbour and sunset views.

It's run by a French expat Lilly, and she seriously knows how to nail a cocktail, creatively, and will happily have a chat and a drink as she shares some hilarious local anecdotes.

She gave us Bloody Marys in syringes with fresh lime and local fresh chilli that were so delicious I had three.

Then, finish with dinner at Stonegrill Restaurant next door. These are seriously good steaks. You choose your premium meat cut or seafood, they arrive on sizzling hot volcanic stones, and you cook it yourself at the table.

Stone Lounge on the left, self-cooked steak on volcanic stone on the right. Image Supplied

Other notable mentions:

Mele Beach Bar: A laid-back beachfront hangout famous for wood-fired pizzas and classic pub fare, paired with a lively atmosphere and stunning sunset views.

Banyan Beach Bar: A vibrant local favourite known for great pizzas and casual dining with energetic live music and a weekend fire show.

Lalala Restaurant & Bar: Cosy, deluxe and traditional French fine dining. I rolled out of there (literally with a French cheese baby in tow).

Banana Bay Beach Club: A trendy beachfront club that offers tropical cocktails and contemporary fusion cuisine with upbeat, stylish island party vibes.

Best time to visit Vanuatu.

July–September is ideal, as it's warm, dry, and less humid, which makes for the perfect Aussie winter escape. I was there in September and the weather was beautifully warm but not too hot at all.

The top temperature we had was 26 degrees. The rain came in and out, but it didn't dampen our mood or very high-octane levels of activity.

Getting around: Hiring a driver for the day is the best way to get around. We travelled with Bountiful Tours and Transfers — ask for my friend Nick. He'll take great care of you, and he's such good company — you'll end up friends for life.

It typically costs around $155 AUD for a 14-seat air-conditioned bus for the whole group. This price usually covers about 6–7 hours of personalised touring where you can choose your own stops, giving you flexibility and comfort. Plus, a friend for life.

Currency: The official currency is the Vanuatu VATU and 1 AUD is equal to around 79 VATU as of September, 2025.

The beautiful markets on the Island of Tanna, Sunset moment at Banyan Beach Bar. Image: Supplied.

The verdict.

Vanuatu is brimming with natural spectacle, living tradition, and easygoing Pacific charm. It's ideal for travellers with a taste for adventure or a search for paradise.

Their main source of income is tourism, and they've had a run of bad luck with natural disasters that have meant things have been quiet recently. While it's refreshing from a tourist's perspective, it's not for the beautiful, warm and welcoming people who rely on visitors as their livelihood.

The best thing we can do? Go visit. And after being there myself, I can assure you, it's legitimately a gift to us, and not a favour at all.

Ta ta lukim su, tanku tumas (bye bye see you soon, thank you so much) Vanuatu, and all my beautiful new friends, who I can't wait to come back and visit.

Mamamia travelled as a guest of Vanuatu Tourism Office and Jetstar. All opinions expressed in this article are the author's own.

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Feature Image: Supplied/ Sailing Vanuatu.