Blue Lagoon Santo, Vanuatu: Visitor Guide

, Welcome to a quick, mobile-friendly snapshot of blue lagoon santo vanuatu. This guide shows you where to go, how to get there and what to pack. It sets clear expectations so you can plan a safe, fun day on the island.

Índice

The island has more freshwater blue holes than many places. Rainwater runs through volcanic rock and limestone caves. It resurfaces as glassy springs that give the water that unreal, luminous look.

You’ll get tips for transport, tricky entrances, snorkel-and-fish moments and rope-swing fun. These holes can be deep and very clear, so planning matters for kids and safety.

Who this guide is for: Aussies planning a day trip, families, snorkellers and anyone chasing the best blue water experience on the island.

Key Takeaways

Quick guide to reach and enjoy the most famous spots.
Clear explanation of why the water looks so vivid — limestone filtration.
Practical safety tips for deep, crystal-clear holes.
Combine multiple sites in one easy island day trip.
Perfect for Aussie travellers after a simple, memorable swim.

How to plan a visit to blue lagoon santo vanuatu

Planning a day at one of the island’s famed freshwater holes starts with a little geology and a simple checklist. A clear, quick plan saves time and keeps kids safe.

What makes Vanuatu’s blue holes so clear and intensely blue

Rainwater falls on volcanic slopes, sinks through limestone and travels in underground caves. That filtration strips sediment, so the spring water resurfaces ultra-clear. The depth and mineral refraction give the signature intense colour you’ll see in many blue holes.

Choosing between Espiritu Santo and Efate (Port Vila)

If you want multiple sites in one day, choose Espiritu Santo — you can string Nanda, Riri and Matevulu into a full trip. If you’re short on time, Efate near Port Vila offers the easiest jump-in and a half-day option.

Timing, crowds and a quick checklist

Go early for calm water and better photos. Ask your resort about cruise-ship arrivals and pick quieter hours. Many holes are deep; bring floaties for kids and plan shaded breaks.

Checklist: cash, snorkel, sunscreen, mozzie repellent, water, towel.

Getting there and getting around Espiritu Santo

Make Luganville your navigation hub — it’s the practical starting point for exploring the island’s famed water sites. From Australia you can fly into Port Vila and connect to Luganville with Air Vanuatu, or grab a direct flight to Luganville when available. This saves time and gets you on the water sooner. 🙂

Drive times from town (easy planning):

Nanda: ~32 km — the classic 40-minute drive to the main site.
Riri: ~23 km — roughly a 30-minute drive.
Matevulu: ~25 km — about 35 minutes on the road.

Transport choices — honest take:

Hire car — most flexible for DIY routes; expect around 10,000 vatu a day.
Private driver/charter — from ~6,000 vatu+, less stress and local knowledge.
Day tour — best if you want zero navigation hassle and a set plan.

Entrances can be a bit tricky. Some sites are poorly signposted and Nanda has a second entrance that leads to a different river section. Ask your resort to mark the correct turn-offs and download offline maps before you leave.

Final tip: leave early, plan one or two sites per day, and enjoy the santo blue spots without rushing.

What to do at the lagoon: swimming, snorkelling and rope swings

Expect crisp, cool water and clear sightlines the moment you step in; it feels almost like floating above glass. Nanda’s hole is famously clear and can reach around 13 m deep, so ease in and let your eyes adjust.

Swimming conditions, depth and freshwater feel

Water is cool and fresh. The depth can surprise you, so wade slowly at first. If you have young kids, use floaties and stay within arm’s reach.

Snorkel spots and borrowing gear

Small tropical fish often hug the edges and shelter under boardwalks. A quick snorkel turns a dip into a mini underwater “wow.” Tip: ask your resort the day before to borrow a snorkel and fins so you don’t scramble in the morning.

Rope swings, platforms and full-day relaxation

Riri and Matevulu offer rope swings, jump decks and jungle edges. One jumper at a time, check below before you launch and watch for slippery steps.

Facilities versus what to bring

Some sites have basic change areas and decking for sunbaking. Most are remote, so pack cash, a picnic lunch, plenty of water, sunscreen and mozzie repellent. Rotate swim–snack–sunbake to make it a full-day place you’ll remember.

“Ease in, borrow gear ahead, and enjoy the simple thrill of clear water and a safe jump.”

For a quick planner on nearby santo blue spots, see our guide at santo blue spots.

Nearby blue holes to add to your Santo itinerary

Make a simple loop and tick off the three must-do holes in one relaxed trip. Start with the most visited, then pick a quieter stop or a jungle-feel spot depending on how much time you have.

Nanda Blue Hole (Jackie’s)

What to expect: Nanda blue hole sits about 32 km (≈40 minutes) from Luganville. Look for clear signposting and a small roadside house where you pay the ~1000 vatu entrance fee.

The site has wooden boardwalks and very clear water. Depth is commonly around 13 m and feels much deeper when you float above it.

Finding the correct Nanda entrance

Make sure you take the right turn. A second entrance exists and leads to a different river section under separate ownership. If you end up at the wrong place, you miss the main lagoon experience most visitors expect.

Riri Blue Hole — walk or canoe?

Riri is roughly 23 km (≈30 minutes) from town. It’s less signposted and feels more jungle‑wrapped.

Options: walk in for a short trek and free entry (~500 vatu). Or hire an outrigger canoe for about 500 vatu extra for a peaceful approach. Total typical cost if you take the canoe is ~1000 vatu (entry + canoe).

Matevulu Blue Hole — quieter pick

Matevulu sits about 25 km (≈35 minutes) out and tends to be quieter. It’s not well signposted, so ask locals for directions.

Entry here is about 500 vatu. Note the water can look cloudy or green after heavy rain, changing the usual clear colour.

Site	Distance from Luganville	Typical entry / fees	Vibe
Nanda blue hole	32 km / ~40 min	~1000 vatu (pay roadside)	Well signposted, boardwalks, deep
Riri blue hole	23 km / ~30 min	~500 vatu entry + ~500 vatu canoe (optional)	Jungle, rope swings, quieter access
Matevulu blue hole	25 km / ~35 min	~500 vatu	Very quiet, limited signage, variable water after rain

Suggested DIY order: Nanda first (best signage), then Riri for a lunch break and canoe ride, finish at Matevulu if you want peace. Stop in Luganville for snacks and cold drinks before you go.

For a fuller overview and map, check a guide to local holes and tailor the trip to your energy level. 🙂

Conclusion

Wrap your trip with one simple call: choose Port Vila for an easy half‑day at the famous blue lagoon, or pick Espiritu Santo for a full‑day drive to multiple blue holes.

Plan transport, start early, carry cash for entry fees, and remember how deep each hole can be for relaxed swimming. Borrow snorkels, pack lunch and time your visit away from cruise crowds for the best blue days.

Bring floaties for kids, sunscreen and mozzie repellent to keep the family comfortable. Choose your island, lock in a day plan and get ready to enjoy unreal clear water.

Curious where the film locations sit? See a short film‑location guide where the film was shot for one extra layer of fun.

FAQ

What should I know before visiting Blue Lagoon Santo, Vanuatu?

Pack swimwear, reef-safe sunscreen, water and a towel. Expect freshwater pools with clear, vivid colour and natural rope swings. Bring cash for small entry fees and local food stalls. Wear sturdy sandals for short walks and a hat — shade can be limited. If you have kids, keep a close eye around the water.

What makes Vanuatu’s blue holes so clear and intensely blue?

The colour comes from deep freshwater fed by underground springs and rivers, combined with limestone and mineral-rich beds. Clear water and strong sunlight create that intense hue. Low sediment and limited pollution help maintain visibility, so avoid stirring the bottom to keep it pristine.

Should I visit Espiritu Santo or Efate (Port Vila) for the best swim?

Santo (Espiritu Santo) is the choice for multiple, large freshwater holes and a day-trip driving route. Port Vila on Efate has its own small, scenic spots closer to town. If you want variety and a day of exploring multiple sites, head to Santo. For convenience or a short excursion, Efate works well.

When is the best time to go to avoid crowds, especially when cruise ships are in?

Early mornings on weekdays are quieter. Cruise-ship days bring groups mid-morning to mid-afternoon, so aim to arrive before 9am or late afternoon. Outside peak season (school holidays) you’ll find fewer people and a calmer experience.

How do I get to Espiritu Santo from Australia?

You can fly into Port Vila from Australia and connect domestically, or book a direct flight to Luganville on Santo when available. Check Air Vanuatu and regional carriers for current schedules. Allow time for transfers and local transport when planning a day trip.

How long is the drive from Luganville to the classic 40-minute site?

Many popular holes sit roughly a 30–45 minute drive from Luganville, depending on road conditions. Allow extra time for stops, signage checks and slow sections on rural roads. A local driver can help navigate turns and short walking tracks.

Hire car, private driver or day tour — which is best for a one-day visit?

Hire a car if you’re comfortable driving on rural roads and want flexibility. Choose a private driver for local knowledge and safety. Day tours suit visitors who prefer a guided experience with transport, fees and some snacks included. Weigh cost, comfort and how much wandering you want to do.

Entrances aren’t always well signposted — how do I find the right way in?

Use recent GPS pins, ask locals or your accommodation for the correct entrance, and follow worn paths or small parking clearings. Look for boardwalks and small signs near river mouths. If unsure, stop and ask — locals often guide you to the better access point.

What are swimming conditions, depth and the freshwater feel like?

Expect cool, fresh water that can feel oddly buoyant and silky. Depths vary from shallow entry pools to deep central holes suitable for jumping. Check conditions first — currents at inlets and sudden drop-offs exist. Swim within your limits and supervise children closely.

Are there good snorkel spots and can I borrow gear from resorts?

Some holes have excellent snorkelling for small fish and freshwater species. Many resorts and dive shops rent or lend snorkel gear; call ahead to reserve. Bring your own mask for hygiene and the best fit if you plan to snorkel often.

Can I use rope swings and platforms? Are they safe?

Rope swings and platforms are common and fun, but safety varies by site. Inspect ropes and landing areas before use. Jump only where water is deep and free of submerged rocks. Take turns, use a spotter, and avoid risky stunts.

What facilities are available on-site and what should I bring?

Facilities range from basic shelter and toilets to no services at all. Bring water, snacks, rubbish bags, a towel, hat and cash for entry or canoe hires. If you need shade or changing areas, check reviews or ask your host before heading out.

What should I know about Nanda Blue Hole (Jackie’s)?

Nanda Blue Hole is well loved for its clear pools, boardwalks and a small entry fee (around 1,000 vatu). There’s a managed access track and good swimming spots. Arrive earlier to avoid crowds and to find parking close to the boardwalk.

How do I avoid taking the wrong turn to Nanda entrance?

Use local directions, recent GPS pins and confirm with locals or your accommodation. The correct entrance often has a small sign or lane, while the wrong turn leads to private land or rough tracks. When in doubt, ask for “Nanda Blue Hole near Luganville” for clear guidance.

What are the options and costs for Riri Blue Hole access?

Riri can be reached by walking in or by hiring a small outrigger canoe from nearby villages. Costs vary — expect a modest entry fee plus canoe hire if you choose that route. Confirm prices locally and agree on return time with canoe operators.

Why visit Matevulu Blue Hole and what should I expect after heavy rain?

Matevulu is quieter and often less crowded, making it great for a peaceful swim. After heavy rain, the water can cloud slightly and change colour; wait a day for clarity to return if you want the clearest view. Access can be muddy, so bring appropriate footwear.

Can I visit Nanda, Riri and Matevulu in one day from Luganville?

Yes — it’s a popular day drive. Start early, plan your route and factor in walking, canoe time and breaks. Hiring a local driver or joining a day tour makes timing easier and reduces navigation stress.