Stroll along white-sand beaches, snorkel in the clear waters and discover offshore islands in this laid-back town backed by lushly forested hills on Espiritu Santo.
Port Olry is a rustic beach town perched on a picturesque stretch of coast on the Sakao Peninsula on the northeastern tip of Vanuatu’s largest island. The township, which was formerly a Catholic mission, hugs a magnificent crescent-shaped beach that looks out toward tree-capped islands. Relax on the soft white sands and swim in the warm waters of the Coral Sea. Go snorkeling and meet some of the underwater wildlife or wander out to the islands at low tide.
Spend some time exploring Port Olry Beach. This exquisite strip of sand extends along the town’s eastern edge and is an idyllic spot to relax and enjoy the views. Go for a walk along the beach and check out the palm fronds that overhang the sands. Look out across the cerulean waters to the islands of Malmas, Malet and Dolphin. The beach’s clear waters are perfect for swimming and playing in the shallows. Grab your snorkel and mask to explore the deeper waters and you might spot some of the local marine life, such as dugongs and turtles.
If the tide is low, walk along the sandbar to Malet and Dolphin islands, which are protected nature reserves. Explore the verdantly vegetated islands to find secret beaches and unbeatable viewpoints. Be sure to keep an eye on the tide, however, and return before the waters begin to rise.
Wander up to the mission that extends across the village’s northerly headland. Check out the Église de St Anne and meet the town’s Catholic community. Port Olry has a couple of restaurants with pretty thatched-roof bungalows and menus featuring fresh seafood and tropical fruits.
Port Olry is located on Espiritu Santo’s northeastern coast. It is an hour and 15 minutes’ drive north from the international airport in Luganville. The town has a selection of rustic accommodations, including traditional bungalows. If you are making the trip up the east coast from Luganville, be sure to save some time to explore the Blue Hole and Champagne Beach.
