Top 5 Things To Do In NOUMEA

Ever dream of visiting the Pacific Islands? A crucial stop to make is Nouméa! A French territory, situated in the idyllic and tropical Pacific, the island of New Caledonia is full of gorgeous scenery and rich culture. Here's a handy list of 5 things to do and places to check out on this island! 💕

✨NUMBER 1 ✨ - walk along the beach 🌴

Nouméa, particular the South end is full of gorgeous beaches, and its everlasting tropical climate make it one of the best beach holiday destinations all year round. The beach is never far away when you're in Nouméa, so get some exercise between the scrumptious French food by taking a stroll along the beach! In particular, the Plage de la Baie des Citrons (Beach at Lemon Bay) is Nouméa's most popular beach, and is surrounded by cute shops that have everything from swimwear to yummy snacks. So take some time off from busily touristing (is that a word?) and soak up some Vitamin D at Lemon Bay! 💛

✨NUMBER 2 ✨ - visit Amorino for gelato 🍦

One of the most memorable place that I visited in Nouméa was Amorino, a gelato shop right by the beach at Lemon Bay that sells delicious and refreshing treats. Notably, when you order ice cream in a cone, they make it into the shape of a rose! 🌹 What could be better than eating ice cream shaped as a rose, on the beach of a Pacific Island, looking at the breathtaking ocean views 😍

✨NUMBER 3 ✨ - learn French from a local 🇫🇷

If you’re in Noumea for a while and want to learn a bit more about the culture, there are French language classes that you can take in town so you can order your next Croque Monsieur in the local dialect! I took a few classes at L'Institut Voltaire during a week-long holiday and loved my teacher and the happy learning environment 🤓

✨NUMBER 4 ✨ - visit the Tjibaou Cultural Centre 🇳🇨

This centre is a perfect blend of urban and natural landscape 🌳 and pays homage to the independence movement in New Caledonia, led by Kanak political leader, Jean-Marie Tjibaou. While visiting the 8 hectares of amazing architecture and gorgeous nature you'll come across many learning experiences in the culture and history of New Caledonia and unique interpretations of traditional Kanak huts (pictured below). It’s a lovely area with fresh, tropical surroundings and intricate and remarkable architecture that’s definitely worth a visit if you want to immerse yourself in the culture of New Caledonia and educate yourself on their history!

✨NUMBER 5 ✨ - go paddle boarding 🏄🏽‍♀️

If you’re keen for a bit of adventure in your holiday, hire a paddle board and spend a few hours paddling away in the ocean! It’s super fun to learn a new skill - and even better when it involves having fun in the water 😆 Fingers crossed you pick it up better than me!

Whatever you decide to do and for however long you decide to stay in New Caledonia, you're sure to have an amazing time! Let me know if you try out any of these activities at @julesescapes 🤎

Have fun and safe travels! - jules xx