Best Time To Visit: April to August are dry and cool making pleasant sailing, though the best time to cruise in September to mid-November.

Key Cruising Areas: The main island and islets of New Caledonia offer a number of anchorages, and it is an ideal place to start a South Pacific cruise to Vanuatu and the Solomon Islands.

Don’t Miss: The best way to view the archipelago is by air. See the islands from an incredible angle with a private helicopter tour. The Ile de Pins and the world’s largest lagoon are stunning from the air, but the pièce de resistance has to be the Coeur de Voh – a mangrove swamp that has grown into the shape of a heart (and can only be seen from above) that has become an iconic symbol of the romantic destination.

Best Spots for Wining and Dining: Its French heritage means that New Caledonia is not short of excellent places to eat and drink. The capital of Noumea is the gourmet epicenter of the island, filled with bars and restaurants. One not to be missed is L’Hippocampe. The chic décor and exquisite food will make a memorable evening – order the degustation menu for a gastronomic adventure!

Best Local Dish: The flavors of the islands revolve around fresh fish, coconut taro, and yams. New Caledonia has a surprising number of unique dishes – Civet de Rousette (bat stew) and a salad of unripe pawpaw. For authentic food, l’Assiette serves excellent local favorites – be sure to try the obsiblue, a particular type of prawn that breeds off the coast of New Caledonia.

Local Culture: The fascinating blend of French and Melanesian influences give the islands their unique ambience, a mixture of modern and simple traditional customs. Visit the New Caledonia Museum to see an amazing collection of Melanesian art, or the Tjibaou Cultural Centre in Noumea to listen to the legends told by the tribes.

Best Beach:  Powder-soft sand, walking trails through pretty forests and a number of good beach resorts make Kanumera Bay on the Ile des Pins a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. The bay is especially beautiful at sunset when the huge, sacred coral rocks are silhouetted against burning skies.

IYC recommends: Travel to the east of Grand-Terre to experience Kanak life. Many tribes have opened their doors to visitors in recent years. Bring a customary gift for a homestay in a traditional hut. Experience the warm welcome of the Melanesians, learn about their customs and secret caves, beaches, and other sites, then finish with a real treat – traditional food. The most traditional is bougna–lobster or fish (or for special occasions, flying fox) with yams, sweet potatoes, and coconut cooked on hot stones in banana leaves.