If you’re in the process of booking your Vanuatu family holiday, then I guess you’re also wondering which are the best Vanuatu resorts for families that won’t completely blow the budget.
When it comes to where to stay in Vanuatu with kids, the first thing you’ll notice is just how expensive some Vanuatu family accommodation can be. You also might be surprised that unlike neighbouring islands such as Fiji and Tahiti, you won’t find a stack of Vanuatu hotels and resorts decked out with family-friendly facilities such as kids’ clubs and playgrounds. So you do need to your homework to determine which are the best hotels in Vanuatu for kids.
In this family-friendly resorts Vanuatu guide, I’ve gathered all the information for you. This guide covers general information about the hotels as well as everything you’re going to want to know about what facilities they have to keep the kids entertained.
However keep in mind, that with over 80 different islands in Vanuatu, it is impossible to cover accommodation across all the islands, and so this guide will include Vanuatu island resorts mostly for Efate (the most popular island tourists visit) as well as a few options for Espiritu Santo Islands. Now I haven’t included every family-friendly accommodation Vanuatu offers on these islands, just 12 that I’ve determined are the best resorts in Vanuatu. The Vanuatu resorts for kids I’ve included in this guide provide excellent value for money, come well recommended from a range of families and/or I’ve personally stayed there or visited myself.
So let’s get into it and find you the best family resort Vanuatu has for your upcoming holiday!
This post may contain compensated links. Please refer to my disclaimer here for more information.
Page Contents
- 1 Quick Overview of the Best Vanuatu Resorts for Families in this Guide
- 2 Where to Stay in Vanuatu with Kids
- 3 Best Place to Stay in Vanuatu with Kids
- 3.1 1. Holiday Inn Resort
- 3.2 2. Erakor Island Resort
- 3.3 3. Warwick Le Lagon Resort
- 3.4 4. Hideaway Island Resort
- 3.5 5. Pacific Lagoon Apartments
- 3.6 6. Fatumaru Lodge
- 3.7 7. Kaiviti Motel
- 3.8 8. Kooyu Villas
- 3.9 9. Waves on Bukura
- 3.10 10. The Espiritu Hotel
- 3.11 11. Aore Island Resort
- 3.12 12. Lonnoc Ocean View Bungalows
Click here for our guide on things to do in Vanuatu with kids
Quick Overview of the Best Vanuatu Resorts for Families in this Guide
Below is a super quick overview of all the best accommodation Vanuatu has that is reviewed in this guide. You can use this guide to quickly determine if the accommodation is right for you and your family. For a more comprehensive review, keep reading below.
| Resort | Location | Bedding | Hotel Facilities | Price Guide | Book Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holiday Inn | Port Vila | 2 large beds | Kids Club 2 pools Tennis courts Golf Course Water Sports Restaurants Bars Casino | $$$ | Book Now |
Erakor Island Resort | Erakor Island - Port Vila | 2-bedroom villa with 1 large bed and 2 singles | Private Island Restaurant Bar Water Sports Playground | $$$ | Book Now |
Warwick Le Lagon Resort | Erakor Lagoon - just across from Erakor Island | 1 large bed and 2 singles | Kids Club Gym Tennis Court Day Spa Pool Water Sports Golf Course | $$ | Book Now |
Hideaway Island Resort | Hideaway Island in Mele Bay | 1 large bed and 2 singles | Private Island Pool Water Sports Restaurant Bar | $$$ | Book Now |
Pacific Lagoon | Erakor Lagoon - just across from Erakor Island | 2-bedroom apartment with 1 large bed and 2 singles | Pool Water Sports | $$ | Book Now |
Fatumaru Lodge | Fatumaru Bay | 2-bedroom apartment with 1 large bed and 2 singles | Pool Water Sports | $$ | Book Now |
Kaiviti Motel | Paradise Cove | 2 bedroom villa with 2 large beds | Pool Restaurant Bar | $$$ | Kaiviti Motel |
Kooyu Villas | Port Vila | 2 bedroom apartment with 1 large bed and 2 singles | Pool Restaurant Bar | $$$ | Book Now |
Waves on Bukura | Mele Bay | Family bungalow with 1 large bed and 2 singles | Pool Restaurant | $$ | Book Now |
The Espiritu | Luganville | Rooms have 1 large bed and 2 singles | Pool Restaurant Bar | $$ | Book Now |
Aore Island Resort | Aore Island | One-bedroom bungalow includes 1 large bed and 2 singles | Private Island Pool Restaurant Bar | $$$$$ | Book Now |
Lonnoc Ocean View Bungalows | Hog Harbour - 600m from Champagne Beach | Family bungalow has 1 large bed and bunk beds | Restaurant Bar Water Sports | $ | Book Now |
Where to Stay in Vanuatu with Kids
As mention above, when it comes to Vanuatu holidays with kids, there are many many islands you may visit. Given most people fly into Port Vila, on Efate Island, Efate is the island where most people choose to holiday in Vanuatu. Some families may choose to split their time between Efate and another island, with the second most popular island being Santo.
Other islands which are popular to visit for a few nights include Tanna, Pentecost, Malekula, Epi and Ambrym. However given Efate is most popular in Vanuatu for families, most of the places in this guide are in Efate with a few options for Santi.
Where to Stay in Efate
Most of the accommodation in Efate can be found close to Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu.
In the town centre of Port Vila is where you will find all the shops and restaurants. However, Port Vila is a harbour, so there is no beach to swim here, and in my view, it is not the ideal place for families to stay. However, if you’re only in Vanuatu for a short time and spending most of your days making day trips, this is a really convenient location, plus you can find some excellent accommodation at bargain prices.
In my view, one of the best family resorts is located not too far from the centre of town, and that is the Holiday Inn. However, this is not the ideal area for swimming or snorkelling.
Close to Port Vila, there are two large peninsulas called Pango and Eratap. These peninsulas run parallel two each other creating a lagoon, in the middle of the lagoon you will find the gorgeous Erakor Island. There are many hotels and resorts around the lagoon, particularly on the Pango peninsula.
In my view, the Pango peninsular is the best place to stay in Vanuatu for families. Here you will find the best spots for swimming and snorkelling, and you are only a 10-minute drive from the centre of Port Vila.
On one side of the Pango peninsular, there is the lagoon (between Eratap), and the other side faces Mele Bay where Hideaway Island is located. On both sides, the further you are away from Port Vila on the Pango peninsular, the better for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking.
Eratap is much more isolated, and I don’t recommend this area for families.
If you prefer to be a little bit further from all the other tourists, then consider Hideaway Island in Mele Bay or any of the other resorts located along the shore here. Mind you, lots of tourists come to Hideaway Island for a day trip.
Where to Stay in Espiritu Santo Island
The town of Luganville is Vanuatu’s second-largest town as well as being the provincial capital. This is where you will find most of the shops and restaurants on the island; however, like Port Vila, this is not the nicest area to stay. You won’t find any beaches here for swimming, but it is convenient for its amenities.
If you must stay close to Luganville, then it’s recommended to stay on Aore Island. Here you have beautiful beaches for swimming and snorkelling as well as being easy to reach the town centre.
Another option is to consider staying near Champagne beach, said to be one of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Best Place to Stay in Vanuatu with Kids
Below I have listed some of the best family accommodation Vanuatu offers that provides great family-friendly facilities as well as being good value for money.
1. Holiday Inn Resort
The Holiday Inn Resort is one of the best places to stay in Vanuatu with kids. The resort overlooks the Erakor Lagoon, just a few kilometres from the centre of Port Vila – a short taxi ride away.
The resort is packed with fantastic family-friendly facilities. There are two swimming pools (including a kids swimming pool), a kid’s club, table tennis and water sports such as kayaking. The kid’s pool is fantastic – it has a shallow area for kids with interactive water activities like a tipping bucket and spraying mushrooms. There are also plenty of pool floaties and noodles for the kids to use too.
The Holiday Inn Vanuatu kids club is open daily between 9 am and 9 pm and is free for guests staying at the resort. Children between the ages of 3 and 12 can join in a range of fun activities such as arts and crafts, games, books and more. Kids can also participate in activities like basket weaving, skirt making and coconut painting.
It’s not all about the kids; there are plenty of great activities for the adults too. On-site, there is a day spa, golf course, gym, casino, restaurants and bars. The kids even eat free at the restaurants too.
Standard hotel rooms include two large beds, or for families that want more space, there are also suites which include one large bed and two single beds. The suites are located in overwater villas which have lovely views across the lagoons. All rooms include air conditioning, TV, free Wi-Fi and tea and coffee making facilities.
What do we love?
The facilities – there is so much to do here you could easily never leave during your holiday in Vanuatu. The kids will love the kid’s pool and the kids club.
What’s not to love?
The location is a little bit isolated, and the lagoon is not the best for swimming or snorkelling. So if a gorgeous beach is a priority for you, this is probably not the best place for you.
Summary
The Holiday Inn is a great choice for families after the best place to stay in Vanuatu with kids. The facilities here for both the kids and the parents are amazing, and you could easily be forgiven for never leaving the hotel.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
2. Erakor Island Resort
When it comes to accommodation Port Vila, Vanuatu has on offer for families; the Erakor Island Resort is one of my favourites. The resort is situated on a small island just off Efate and is just stunning with a lovely beach and crystal-clear water just perfect for swimming and snorkelling.
There is a range of accommodation on the island from standard bungalows to two-bedroom villas. Both options feature one large bed and two singles beds, as well as fans (not all rooms are not air-conditioned), tea and coffee making facilities and a private garden with terrace. The bungalows are plenty big enough, but if you want to splurge, I definitely recommend getting a two-bedroom villa.
The resort is small, and you will always only be metres away from the stunning crystal clear water of the lagoon. The island has a small playground as well as a basic kids club where there are daily organised activities such as basket weaving, island walks, colouring-in and movies. Other activities on the island include kayaking, stand up paddleboarding and beach games such as volleyball. The resort also has its own restaurant and bar.
Read our detailed Erakor Island Review here.
What do we love?
The absolutely stunning beach with calm and crystal-clear water just perfect for swimming, snorkelling and kayaking.
What’s not to love?
There is no swimming pool here and being on an island, you will need to get a ferry across to the mainland every time you want to go into town, but it really doesn’t take that long.
Summary
For families that want to stay on a small tropical island, with the most amazing lagoon for swimming and snorkelling – the Erakor Island is definitely the place for you.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
3. Warwick Le Lagon Resort
The Warwick Le Lagon is a first-class resort located on the edge of the Erakor Lagoon, just across from the Erakor Island Resort. This is a massive resort ideal for families that want access to a stack of family-friendly facilities.
Rooms can accommodate families of up to 4 people. Rooms come with either two large beds or one large bed and two singles. There is also the option of interconnecting rooms. Each room has air conditioning, TV and small sitting area.
Kids aged between 3-16 will love the Funtastik Kids Club, which is free for those staying at the resort. Activities here include PS3 games, a cinema, cooking classes, activity program, a kids pool, a fun factory playground and games room.
Other facilities at the Warwick Le Lagon Resort include three restaurants, two bars, two swimming pools (one with a swim-up bar), golf course, day spa, tennis courts, a range of water sports and gym.
Read our detailed Warwick Le Lagon review here.
What do we love?
There is a stack of excellent facilities here at the Warwick Le Lagon Resort, so no matter what each member of your family is into, they will have something they love here.
What’s Not to Love?
This is a massive resort, and for me, it’s missing some of that intimacy you get from smaller resorts.
Summary
For families that love those massive resorts which have a stack of first-class facilities, you’ll just love the Warwick Le Lagon Resort. There is so much to do here that there is no chance anyone in the family will get bored.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
4. Hideaway Island Resort
If a small island is more your style, the Hideaway Island Resort is well worth considering. Located a little out of Port Vila and just a short ferry ride from Efate, Hideaway Island Resort is a lovely slice of paradise just perfect for a family holiday.
If staying on a tiny tropical island in the South Pacific wasn’t enough, there are a great range of things to do here. Facilities include a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, beach volleyball and a variety of water sports such as kayaking and stand up paddleboards. There is even a lounge which has a small library and board games too.
A unique feature of Hideaway Island is they have the world’s only underwater post box. Snorkelers and divers can take special waterproof postcard down and post them to their friends and family around the world. How cool is that!
Families are best accommodated in a standard one-bedroom bungalow which includes one large bed and two singles. The bungalows also include a lounge area, dining area, fans and an outdoor terrace. While standard bungalows aren’t air-conditioned, you can upgrade to bungalows which include air conditioning and ocean views.
Read our detailed Hideaway Island Resort review here.
What do we love?
The best part is staying on a small tropical island, surrounded by crystal clear water — such a stunning location.
What’s not to Love?
The location is a little isolated, and even though the island isn’t too far from Efate, it’s still a bit of a drive from there into the centre of Port Vila. Also keep in mind that Hideaway Island Resort is popular for day-trippers, so it can get busy during the day.
Summary
There is no doubt the Hideaway Island Resort is a fantastic spot for families. This resort is gorgeous, and you will love spending your days swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. It will take a bit of effort getting into Port Vila, but if you don’t plan on leaving the island too much, it is the perfect place to base yourself.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
5. Pacific Lagoon Apartments
Situated on the edge of Erakor Lagoon, the Pacific Lagoon Apartments are well-positioned for families wanting to spend their holiday’s swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. The apartments are also a short drive to the centre of town where you will find restaurants and shops.
With only 11 apartments on-site, you don’t have to worry about this place being swamped by other tourists. All apartments have two bedrooms with the main room having a queen bed and the other having two single beds. Apartments feature air conditioning, lounge room, dining room, fully equipped kitchen, multiple TVs and DVD players and free Wi-Fi.
On-site, there is a swimming pool as well as BBQs, kayaks, board games, book library, DVD library, and laundry facilities.
What do we love?
Families will love how cheap this place is, plus being self-contained you can save even more money on preparing your own meals as well as everyone being able to have their own space.
What’s not to love?
The apartments are nothing fancy, so if you’re after something a little luxurious perhaps stay elsewhere.
Summary
For families looking for a budget option for their Vanuatu family holiday, you really can’t go past the Pacific Lagoon Apartments. This is a beautiful spot on the lagoon as well as not being too far from the centre of town and also spacious for families.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
6. Fatumaru Lodge
Another great budget option for families is the Fatumaru Lodge. Located only a few kilometres from the centre of Port Vila, it’s within walking distance or just a short taxi ride away. There are also places to eat and a supermarket within a short walk.
This is another excellent location for families. The hotel is on a sandy bay in Fatumaru Bay, which is perfect for swimming and other water activities such as kayaking and stand up paddleboarding. On-site, there is a swimming pool.
There are only ten apartments on-site, so again you don’t have to be worried about being mobbed by tourists. Families are best accommodated in one of the two-bedroom apartments; some apartments can even accommodate up to five people. The apartments include one large bed, two singles and with some also having a sofa bed. All apartments are self-contained and include air conditioning, TV, large terrace, free Wi-Fi, kitchenette, and panoramic ocean views.
What do we love?
Well priced, self-contained apartments not too far from the shops and cafes of Port Vila.
What’s not to Love
Given this is a small hotel, there are not too many facilities here.
Summary
If you’re looking for budget accommodation close to the centre of town, you can’t go wrong with Fatumaru Lodge. Here you will find spacious self-contained accommodation, great location and all at a really affordable price.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
7. Kaiviti Motel
If you’re only in Port Vila for a short time and wanting somewhere super central to all the shops and restaurants, the Kaiviti Motel is a great choice. This motel is located on the main street of Port Vila overlooking the harbour.
The two-bedroom apartments are best for families and include one large bed and two singles. The apartments also include a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, lounge and dining area, TV and a balcony with harbour views.
Onsite is a restaurant and bar and a swimming pool.
What do we love?
Reasonably priced self-contained accommodation in a central location to all the amenities of Port Vila.
What’s not to Love?
There is no beach here to swim – so if you’re after a beautiful beach – pick one of the other hotels in this guide.
Summary
If you’re in Port Vila for a short time and looking for central self-contained accommodation which is also reasonably cheap, the Kaiviti Motel is a great one to consider.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
8. Kooyu Villas
Located in a quiet little cove, the Kooyu Villas are perfect for families that want to relax in the peace while being on a lovely stretch of beach with clear sparkling blue water.
On-site there are only four villas, so you won’t be swamped with a bunch of tourists. Families are best accommodated in the two-bedroom villas, which include two large beds. Each villa consists of a kitchen, free Wi-Fi, washing machine, fans, spacious terrace with sea views and the property also offers a grocery delivery.
What do we love?
Gorgeous villas, just metres from the water and so private with only four villas on site.
What’s Not to Love?
The villas are a little isolated from restaurants and shops, but that’s part of the attraction to the place.
Summary
For families looking for a more rustic, peaceful vibe definitely check out the Kooyu Villas. And if you do decide to stay here, have a bit of a splurge a book the villa with a private pool.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
9. Waves on Bukura
Located 16kms outside of the centre of Port Vila, the Waves of Bukura offer families accommodation in a peaceful beachfront setting in Mele Bay. Here families can enjoy self-contained accommodation at a great price.
Families are best accommodated in the family bungalows, which include one large bed and two single beds. These bungalows are spacious and simple but include everything you need for a lovely family holiday. Each bungalow features a kitchenette, dining area and wide bi-fold doors that open up to a tropical garden only metres away from the water.
On-site, there is also a swimming pool and restaurant.
What do we love?
Families will love having a kitchenette to prepare meals, and the location is lovely in a quieter part of the island just outside Port Vila.
What’s not to Love
This hotel is situated a little far from the town centre or any nearby shops and cafes – but that’s likely to be what will attract certain families here.
Summary
Waves on Bukura is perfect for families wanting to get away from all the tourists and crowds and have their own little slice of paradise.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
10. The Espiritu Hotel
For families wanting accommodation in the heart of Luganville, the Espiritu Hotel is well worth considering. This three-star hotel has modern accommodation with good onsite facilities, and you’re also surrounded by a range of shops, restaurants and cafes.
Family rooms include one large bed and two single beds. Rooms also include air conditioning, TV, lounge area, free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee making facilities and a balcony. Onsite there is also a swimming pool, restaurant, pool bar and lounge and free on-site parking.
What do we love?
The Espiritu Hotel is located in the heart of Luganville, so you can easily walk to the shops, cafes and dive centres.
What’s not to Love
There is no beach around Luganville, but it is just a short ferry ride from here to Aore Island Resort.
Summary
For families wanting to stay in the heart of Luganville, the Espiritu is a lovely hotel to consider.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
11. Aore Island Resort
Located on a secluded tropical island, Aore Island Resort is the perfect place for families coming to Espiritu Santo for their holiday. The Aore Island Resort is just a short ferry ride from Luganville and Aore Island is the nearest beach to the town centre.
The resort features gorgeous lush tropical gardens, a swimming pool, restaurant and bar. Families can spend their days relaxing on the beach as well as swimming, snorkelling and kayaking. From Aore island you can also join dive trips to the famous “USS President Coolidge” wreck as well as the popular Million Dollar Point.
One-bedroom bungalows can accommodate up to four people and include one double bed and two single beds. Bungalows also include fans, tea and coffee making facilities and a spacious balcony. If you can spare a little extra cashand book one of the beachfront bungalows, which are only metres from the water, do! You won’t regret it.
What do we love?
Staying on a stunning tropical island only a short ferry ride away from Luganville.
What’s Not to Love?
Compared to staying in Luganville, it’s pretty expensive to stay at Aore Island Resort.
Summary
For families that want to stay close to the town of Luganville yet want access to a stunning beach and gorgeous crystal clear water, the Aore Island Resort is your best option. Despite being located on a secluded island, you’re only a short ferry ride from Luganville so you can still easily explore all that Espiritu Santo has to offer.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
12. Lonnoc Ocean View Bungalows
Located only 600 metres from Champagne Beach, said to be one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, the Lonnoc Ocean View Bungalows is the perfect place for families that prefer more low-key accommodation.
These bungalows are relatively basic and are one of the cheapest places listed in this guide. Bungalows can accommodate families of up to seven with bedding configurations including one large bed, either one or two sets of bunk beds and single beds. Each of the bungalows includes patios with sea views.
Onsite there is a restaurant and bar, free parking as well as free use of kayaks.
What do we love?
Only 600 metres from the stunning Champagne Beach – considered one of the world’s best beaches!
What’s Not to Love?
Staying in a basic bungalow is not for everyone. If you’re used to your luxuries, this place isn’t for you.
Summary
For families that want to completely disconnect and stay in rustic accommodation a short distance from one of the world’s best beaches, the Lonnoc Ocean View Bungalows is a fantastic choice.
Click here to check current prices and availability.
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Hopefully you found this guide on where to stay in Vanuatu with kids helpful. if you love to holiday in the South Pacific we also have a guide on where to stay in Fiji with kids here.
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