Hideaway Island
Mele Island
A small island in Mele Bay, surrounded by a marine protected area. Snorkelers can see coral and tropical fish, and you can send a waterproof postcard from the world's first underwater post office.
Hideaway Island (officially Mele Island) lies in Mele Bay, about a 15-minute drive northwest of Port Vila. It is only a few hundred meters from the shore and reached by a free small boat. The waters around the island are a marine protected area. Coral reef begins in the shallows right off the beach, and snorkeling reveals plenty of tropical fish, starfish and giant clams, making it the most convenient snorkeling spot on Efate. The island resort has an underwater post office about 3 meters deep, where you can buy waterproof postcards and snorkel or dive down to drop them off for delivery. Entry to the island and protected area costs several thousand vatu, including boat transfers (check on site). You can rent snorkel gear or dine on the island. Note: touching coral and feeding fish are prohibited in the protected area. Use sun protection, and wear a UV rash guard when snorkeling.
Opening hours
About 08:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Mele Bay
- Secret Garden Cultural Centre (Mele)
- Mele Cascades
- Port Vila Waterfront
- Iririki Island
- Port Vila Market House
- Vanuatu National Museum (Vanuatu Cultural Centre)
- Pango & Breakas Beach