The most beautiful natural sites to discover Noumea

Once arrived, we are on a hill overlooking Noumea, we discover the superb panorama on the lagoon, the Tjibaou Cultural Center and the Mont-Dore. Below the hill, Notre-Dame-du-Pacifique watches over Nouméa. One of the last dry forests still preserved in the vicinity of Nouméa can be found on 36 hectares. In the Valley of the Endemics, many unique animals in the world are a real showcase of New Caledonian fauna!

If you leave the Ouémo peninsula on your right and the Magenta bay a little further north. At the junction, not far from the former University of the Pacific and the airfield, you will be able to admire the small strip of fine sand bordered by superb columnar pines. There are tables and benches for picnics. A playground is also available for children. It is the ideal place to start windsurfing from the beach when you are a beginner. Beware of swimmers and webbed hikers though!

South of the Rocher à la Voile, you approach Anse Vata (stone in the local language), closed off to the south by Point Magnin. Formerly marshy, it was called the Bay of Ducks, the cove is now one of the most popular tourist spots in New Caledonia. Don't worry, the number of visitors in high season is equivalent to that of the Côte d'Azur in winter... Exposed to the prevailing winds, it is also a very famous windsurfing site. The nautical structures abound in the area, as do the hotels and restaurants.

The Bay of Lemons, or "BD" as it is known locally, is sheltered from the wind and is lined with numerous snack bars, restaurants, cafes and hotels. Some say that a boat full of lemons once ran aground here, releasing its cargo, hence the name. Others say that the bay was once lined with lemon trees. With its sea of oil, its trees and its fine sand, it is the family beach par excellence. The Cap du Rocher à la Voile in the south was the place where Nouméans would gather for a last farewell when the sailing ships left for France.

An original and exotic excursion at 5 minutes from Noumea in a marine reserve and a treasure island. Under a pretty "faré" in the center of the islet or directly at your deckchair, you can enjoy a snack (nice salads with shrimps, children's menu...). A good idea to have lunch with your feet in the water. Underwater path for snorkeling. Tapas evening every first Thursday of the month. Permanent open-air exhibition: corals and sculptures (more than 100 pieces). Charming paths lead you there.