The spirit of Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu

It is the largest island in the South Pacific nation of Vanuatu, with 3,955.5 km² of lush rainforest, scattered islands and coastline boasting some of the best dive sites in Vanuatu.

Espiritu Santo is a short 45 minute flight from Port Vila but feels miles away from anywhere.  There are now also quick connecting international and domestic flights from Brisbane, Sydney and Auckland arriving five times a week, making Espiritu even more accessible.

Stunning islands lay scattered like jewels in amazing blue waters, just a few hundred metres from coconut palm fringed powdery white sand beaches.  Mysterious swimming holes connect to underground caverns and rainforest expansive mountains stretching from one end of the island to the other.

This unrushed region of Vanuatu gives those who visit the opportunity to do as much or as little as they like.  The wide variety of adventures and experiences to be had in Santo range from relaxing on deserted beaches, diving the famous SS Coolidge shipwreck or snorkelling with a thousand colourful fish, exploring tribal and ritualistic cultural sites to ending the day with dinner on a jetty overlooking the South Pacific as the sun sets.

Just as abundant is the choice of places to stay in Espiritu Santo.  The range of hotels, lodges and resorts cater for ever budget from backpackers to 5 star private island luxury.  KarryOn has visited some of the places to stay in Espiritu Santo to give you a sneak peak on what is available.

Village de Santo Village de Santo Resort in Luganville on the island of Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu, offers 16 semi-self-contained suites surrounded by lush tropical gardens. An intimate boutique Resort offering modern, spacious and well equipped Deluxe Village Suites. The resort also features a restaurant, bar and crystal clear pool. www.villagedesantoresort.com

The Espiritu The Espiritu offers hotel accommodation for all types of travellers, whether you are traveling alone or a corporate traveller or even family with kids; we have a room for you! Choose from our Superior, Deluxe or Dormitory category rooms. www.the-espiritu.com

Coral Quays Resort Coral Quays Fish and Dive Resort is surrounded by natural & tropical beauty are 18 spacious bungalows, plenty of room to relax and unwind. Either Air conditioned or Fan cooled bungalows with private balconies are available.  Single, Twin, Double, Triple or Family Accommodation and Group bookings welcome. www.coralquays.com

Bokissa Private Island Resort All accommodations are right on the beach and shaded by the canopies of enormous beach trees creating a private retreat.  All accommodations are well appointed and very comfortable and include air-conditioned Beachfront Fares, Deluxe Beachfront Fare, Duplex-style Fare and a Deluxe Beachfront Villa. www.bokissa.com

Ratua Private Island Resort Ratua Island is a wild, magical place with authentic people who offer a simple and warm reception in a naturally beautiful environment. The 146-acre island is also home to horses, ponies, cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, and chickens that roam free across the land. 13 Indonesian-style villas are shared between 3 villages: Fish Village, West Point Village and South Point Village.  It is a uniquely different resort with 5-star opulence. www.ratua.com

Top 5 things to do

1. Dive the SS President Cooliage wreck
2. Swim and walk along Champagne Beach
3. Visit Blue Hole
4. Explore the Millenium Caves
5. Lunch at Restaurant 1606 at Village de Santo