Australia’s Hidden Gem: Why Vanuatu is the Must-Visit Destination for 2026!

Published on December 2, 2025

Vanuatu, an idyllic archipelago of 83 islands located in the South Pacific, is preparing to welcome a wave of tourists in 2026, following significant recovery efforts after a recent earthquake. This popular destination is undergoing a renaissance with new hotels, restaurants, and flight services aimed at accommodating increasing demand, particularly from Australia.

Vanuatu’s Tourism Revival Post-Earthquake

Just over a year after a devastating earthquake, Vanuatu is bouncing back. The tourism sector, a vital part of the nation’s economy, is witnessing a resurgence, aided by a range of developments that promise to offer new experiences for travelers. The country has seen remarkable growth in bookings, with many visitors eager to explore its beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and renowned hospitality.

A critical part of Vanuatu’s recovery strategy has been its tourism campaigns. In September 2025, the Vanuatu Tourism Office (VTO) launched an ambitious marketing initiative called The Wake-Up Call. The campaign, which emphasized humor and energy, successfully repositioned the destination, reminding Australians that Vanuatu is an easily accessible, refreshing getaway. The campaign’s success can be seen in the significant increase in bookings, with travel group Ignite Travel reporting a 29% rise in year-on-year reservations. Additionally, VTO data reveals a 27% surge in Australian arrivals during the first eight months of 2025, surpassing total arrivals for 2024.

New Resorts and Renovated Properties Set to Open in 2026

As demand grows, Vanuatu is expanding its accommodation offerings. Several new resorts and renovations of existing properties are scheduled to open in 2026, particularly on Efate Island, which is expected to see significant tourism activity.

• The Grand Hotel & Casino, located in Port Vila, is nearing completion of an extensive restoration. Once reopened, it will offer both leisure and business guests an iconic harborfront experience.
• Holiday Inn Resort Vanuatu is undergoing a major refurbishment, with plans for a mid-2026 relaunch. The renovation will introduce a revitalized accommodation wing to enhance the family-friendly resort’s appeal.
• Turtle Cove Villas, a new boutique development on Efate’s northern coast, is set to open in January 2026. This property will feature four self-contained villas, a pool, and an on-site restaurant, catering to guests seeking a more independent, laid-back experience.

In addition to these new openings, several recently relaunched properties are already attracting visitors:

• E’Nauwi Beach Resort, located southwest of Efate, welcomed guests in November 2025. The resort features 16 beachfront bungalows, a restaurant, bar, and spa.
• The Havannah Vanuatu, an adults-only luxury resort, also reopened in November after nearly a year offline, offering its signature serene environment perfect for romantic getaways.
• Tamanu on the Beach, on Efate’s south coast, resumed operations in November with newly constructed villas following a two-month renovation.
• Mali Beach Club, a new restaurant and bar situated on Mele Beach, offers guests beachside cocktails and pizza just a short 30-minute drive from Port Vila.

These additions significantly boost Vanuatu’s appeal as a top-tier destination in the South Pacific, offering diverse experiences that cater to various travel preferences.

Increasing Flight Availability to Meet Rising Demand

To accommodate the growing influx of tourists, particularly from Australia, flight services to Vanuatu are expanding. Several airlines are increasing their capacity to meet the demand during peak seasons:

• Qantas will begin operating daily flights between Brisbane and Port Vila starting in March 2026.
• Solomon Airlines will increase its weekly services between Brisbane and Espiritu Santo, adding two additional flights.
• Virgin Australia is also boosting its service capacity, offering up to 12 weekly flights between Brisbane and Port Vila during the festive season.

This flight capacity increase represents a significant 30% rise in peak-season availability compared to 2024, making it easier for Australians to visit Vanuatu. The enhanced connectivity is expected to make travel more convenient, with more flexible options for holidaymakers.

A New Image for Vanuatu: Beyond Relaxation

The Wake-Up Call campaign, which concluded in late 2025, played a pivotal role in redefining Vanuatu’s image. While traditionally seen as a serene, relaxing destination, the campaign presented Vanuatu as a place offering genuine experiences—from thrilling adventures to cultural immersion, and relaxation without the pressures of overtourism. This fresh portrayal attracted a wide audience, particularly Australians seeking a nearby but unique getaway.

VTO’s CEO, Adela Issachar Aru, emphasized the importance of Australian tourism in Vanuatu’s recovery. She noted the 27% rise in Australian arrivals in 2025, which has already surpassed the total arrivals of 2024. This growth has been instrumental in helping Vanuatu rebuild and recover from the earthquake. Aru also expressed excitement for 2026, with the country poised to welcome even more visitors due to the new accommodations, dining options, and attractions.

The Role of Travel Agents in Shaping Itineraries

Travel agents are playing a crucial role in facilitating this tourism revival. With over 75% of Australian visitors to Vanuatu booking through travel agents or wholesalers, there is a clear opportunity for travel advisors to capitalize on the destination’s revitalization. Vanuatu’s diverse new offerings, from boutique villas to multi-generational packages, allow travel agents to tailor unique itineraries that meet the specific needs of their clients.

The Future of Vanuatu’s Tourism: Looking Ahead

Looking forward to 2026, Vanuatu’s tourism sector is set for continued growth. The combination of new properties, upgraded flight services, and a fresh marketing approach is positioning the destination as an attractive option for travelers, particularly Australians. Whether it’s for a luxurious retreat, an adventurous escape, or a cultural exploration, Vanuatu offers a range of experiences that will appeal to a broad spectrum of tourists.

As Vanuatu continues to rebuild and expand its offerings, it remains a top contender in the South Pacific tourism market. For travel agents and visitors alike, it is the perfect time to rediscover this gem of the Pacific and embrace all it has to offer.