By Kate Love

If you're seeking the perfect blend of luxury, adventure and cultural immersion, look no further than Waves at Surfside in Vanuatu. This hidden gem in the South Pacific offers an unforgettable beachfront experience that will leave you yearning for more. Get ready to embark on a journey that reveals the beauty of this tropical paradise.

Luxury Living by the Beach

Our voyage began with a stay in one of the spacious 3-bedroom beachside villas, which surpassed all expectations. These elegant abodes are adorned with high-quality furnishings, and the generously sized bedrooms feature plush king size beds. But the true luxury lies in your private swimming pool and the mesmerising view of the ocean, which can be enjoyed right from the comfort of your own bed.

A Surfer’s Dream Come True

For the surf enthusiasts among us, Pango surf break at Waves at Surfside is a dream come true. It stands as one of the prime surf beaches in Vanuatu, and the annual Leimalo Surfing Competition adds an extra layer of excitement. You can ride the waves to your heart's content alongside Pango villagers and expats, and immerse yourself in the surf culture that this vibrant place has to offer.

Photo credit: Leimalo Surfing Competition

Gateway to Exploration

Situated adjacent to Pango village, Waves at Surfside provides easy access to local cheap buses that can take you on a 10-minute ride into Port Vila. This opens up a world of possibilities, from exploring the markets and shops to indulging in the flavours of various restaurants. It's all within reach and allows for an easy way to explore Port Vila while staying out on the Pango peninsula.

dugong Encounters

Our adventure didn't stop at surfing and Port Vila exploration. We took a plunge into Pango bay right in front of our villa for snorkelling. On our first day, I had the rare opportunity to swim alongside a dugong, a memory that will stay with me forever. To delve deeper into the local culture, we strolled through the vibrant Port Vila Markets, where we savoured the local cuisine and engaged with friendly faces.

Sublime Underwater World

Don't miss the incredible snorkelling experiences at the nearby Honeymoon Beach. The underwater world here is a true wonder to explore, with an abundance of marine life and vibrant coral reefs that will leave you in awe. The beach is run by the locals and you’ll pay a small fee that then goes back into supporting Pango village and its people.

Your Next Adventure Awaits

Waves at Surfside is a tropical paradise that offers the best of both worlds – relaxation and adventure. It's a place where luxury meets natural beauty, and where you can immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying the comforts of home.

Whether you're an avid surfer, a culture seeker or simply looking to relax by the beach, this hidden gem in Vanuatu promises an unforgettable experience. We can't wait to return for more oceanfront luxury, and we're sure you'll feel the same.

5 Fun Facts about Dugongs in Vanuatu

Mystical Sea Creatures: Dugongs, also known as "sea cows," are often referred to as the "mermaids of the sea" due to their graceful, mermaid-like swimming motions. Their unique appearance and gentle nature have led to various legends and folklore surrounding them.
Herbivorous Lifestyle: Dugongs are herbivores, mainly feeding on seagrasses in the shallow coastal waters of Vanuatu, including Pango. They can consume up to 40 kilograms of seagrass daily, making them vital for the health of seagrass ecosystems in the region.
Endangered Status: Dugongs are listed as vulnerable to extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Their population in Vanuatu, as in many other regions, faces numerous threats, including habitat loss, pollution and accidental entanglement in fishing gear.
Long-Lived Giants: Dugongs have a relatively long lifespan, with individuals living up to 70 years. This characteristic makes them a symbol of wisdom and longevity in some local cultures in Vanuatu.
Conservation Efforts: Vanuatu is actively involved in the conservation of dugongs and their seagrass habitats. The government and local organisations work together to monitor dugong populations, protect their habitats, and raise awareness about the importance of these gentle marine mammals in the region's ecosystem.

Check out the Dugong & Seagrass Conservation Project in Vanuatu.

Paradise Found: Discovering Waves at Surfside