One of the first questions travelers ask when planning a trip to Vanuatu is how to actually reach the island of Espiritu Santo.
It is easier than many people expect. Once you know the route, getting to your Espiritu Santo resort is a straightforward part of the journey rather than a stressful one.
Here is a full breakdown of how to reach Coral Quays Resort from Australia, New Zealand, or Port Vila.
The Journey in Four Steps
- Fly into Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu.
- Continue on to Santo by domestic flight or ferry.
- Arrive at Santo Pekoa International Airport.
- Transfer to the resort by taxi, rental car, or pre arranged transfer.
Step One: Fly Into Port Vila
Most international travelers begin their journey by flying into Port Vila. Direct flights are available from major cities including Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Auckland, operated by airlines such as Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Air New Zealand.
Port Vila serves as the main gateway into the country, so nearly every visitor passes through it before continuing on to Santo.
Travelers flying from Brisbane have an even more convenient option. Solomon Air offers direct flights straight to Santo on Thursdays and Saturdays. This route gets you from Brisbane to Santo in under three hours, skipping the Port Vila stopover entirely.
Step Two: Continue On to Santo
From Port Vila, the next leg of the trip is a domestic flight with Air Vanuatu to Santo, also known as Espiritu Santo.
Ferries are also an option for travelers who prefer to see more of the country along the way, although flying is generally faster and more convenient for most holidaymakers heading to their Luganville resort.
Domestic flights and ferries can fill up quickly during peak travel periods, so it is worth booking this leg of the journey well in advance rather than leaving it until the last minute.
Step Three: Arrive at Santo Pekoa International Airport
Once you land at Santo Pekoa International Airport, you are only a short drive away from Coral Quays Resort.
The airport is compact and easy to navigate, and the resort is roughly a fifteen minute drive away, making the final stretch of the trip quick and simple.
Step Four: Transfer to the Resort
From the airport, guests can:
- Use local taxis
- Arrange a rental car
- Organize a pre arranged transfer directly through the resort
For travelers who would rather not deal with logistics after a long flight, contacting the team at your Espiritu Santo resort ahead of time to arrange a transfer is usually the easiest option.
Getting Around Once You Arrive
After checking in at your Luganville resort, getting around Luganville and the surrounding area is simple.
The resort offers a shuttle service into Luganville town, which is useful for visiting the market, shops, and cafés without needing your own vehicle. For guests who prefer to explore independently, bike and kayak hire is also available directly through the resort.
Because Coral Quays sits only about five kilometers from town, many guests find they do not need a rental car at all during their stay, relying instead on the shuttle and the resort's tour desk for day trips further afield.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
Planning ahead makes a noticeable difference when travelling to a destination like Santo. A few tips worth keeping in mind:
- Check flight and ferry schedules well before your trip, particularly during peak season.
- Book your domestic flight or ferry to Santo as early as possible, since seats can be limited.
- Contact the resort in advance if you would like help arranging airport transfers.
- Allow a little buffer time between connecting flights in case of schedule changes, which are common with smaller regional airlines.
Why the Location Makes a Difference
Choosing a well positioned Luganville resort like Coral Quays takes a lot of the stress out of arrival day.
Rather than facing a long or complicated transfer after your flight, you are settled into your bungalow within minutes of landing, with the beach, gardens, and restaurant close at hand.
For travelers who want their holiday to start the moment they land, this kind of convenience is hard to overstate.
If you are still finalizing your travel plans, the resort's team is happy to help answer questions about flights, transfers, and the best way to reach your Espiritu Santo resort based on where you are travelling from.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nearest airport to Coral Quays Resort?
Santo Pekoa International Airport is the nearest airport, roughly a fifteen minute drive from the resort.
Do I need to fly through Port Vila to reach Santo?
Most travelers connect through Port Vila, although Solomon Air offers direct flights from Brisbane to Santo on Thursdays and Saturdays.
Can the resort arrange my airport transfer?
Yes. Guests can contact the resort in advance to arrange a pre arranged transfer, or use local taxis and rental cars on arrival.
How far is the resort from Luganville town?
The resort is about five kilometers from town, and a shuttle service is available for guests who want to visit without their own transport.
Should I book my domestic flight to Santo in advance?
Yes, particularly during peak season, since domestic flights and ferries can fill up quickly.
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