Photograph by Courtney Ries Named for the trees that dominate the island, the Isle of Pines is one of the top-visited places in the country. Despite its popularity, the island is refreshingly free of the hoards of tourists that usually overrun must-see destinations. With two small villages, the local people ensure that the island maintains the rustic, natural feel with limits on commercial developments and resorts.

How to Reach the Isle of Pines

There are two ways for travelers to reach the Isle of Pines. Day-trippers are best off catching the early morning flight from Magenta Domestic Airport directly to the Isle of Pines Domestic Airport. Note that the Magenta airport is not the international airport where you arrived. Magenta Domestic Airport is located 2 miles (4 km) outside of the city and can be easily reached by 10-minute taxicab ride.

Flights to the Isle of Pines on the domestic airline, Air Calédonie, cost approximately $180 USD, round trip. For those who are not staying overnight, Air Caledonie flies twice a day (9 a.m. and 4:10 p.m.) from Noumea to Isle of Pines. There are also two flights from the Isle of Pines to Noumea around 8 and 5 every day. Although there are no assigned seats on the flight, try to sit next to the window so you can catch a glimpse of the atolls and their vibrant colors upon arrival. Flight times are approximately 20 minutes.

For a slower paced visit of the Isle of Pines, catch the catamaran ferry that departs and returns to Noumea three times a week, on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday. The ferry takes two hours and fifteen minutes.

Helicopter transfers from the capital can also be arranged in advance through your travel agent.

What to See and Do on the Isle of Pines

Not unsurprisingly, travelers come to the Isle of Pines to relax and recharge with unspoiled nature. With a total population of less than 2,000 residents, it's a popular getaway for both New Caledonians and tourists alike.

There are a number of good ways to explore the relatively flat island. Although many weekend guests will rent a car, hotels will also provide transfers and rent out bikes. Despite the island's name, there are actually many different types of trees and flowers. Try to spot the coconut, paw-paw (papaya) and lychee trees.

For a unique exploration of the island, catch a ride on pirogue, or outrigger canoe. An adventure company near the Le Meridian hotel will arrange travel throughout the waterways.

Although visitors are drawn to the towering trees, the beauty of the Isle of Pines continues below the surface and into the lagoons and bays. Near Le Meridien is the Baie d'Oro, or natural pool. A fifteen-minute walk through coconut groves and around crab holes in the sand, this enclosed lagoon contains spectacular snorkeling opportunities and a small 15-foot opening into the ocean. There are large, noticeable differences between high and low tide. Diving opportunities are also plentiful.