IIf you’re dreaming of crystal-clear water, vibrant coral reefs, and uncrowded tropical beaches, snorkelling in Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu is one of the best experiences in the South Pacific.
Unlike more commercial islands, Santo offers easy-access reef snorkeling, unique WWII wreck sites, and pristine marine life—all without the crowds.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best spots for snorkeling in Espiritu Santo, what makes each special, and tips to make the most of your trip.
1) Million Dollar Point – WWII Wreck Snorkelling in Espiritu Santo
Arguably one of the most famous spots for snorkelling in Espiritu Santo, Million Dollar Point offers one of the most unique underwater experiences in the South Pacific.
This former WWII dump site has transformed into a thriving artificial reef, where you can snorkel over bulldozers, cranes, and military equipment now covered in coral. The result is a surreal mix of history and marine life you won’t find anywhere else. Read more about the unique history of Million Dollar Point Here.
Things to See: Turtles, schooling fish, clown fish, electric clams, rays, barracuda, squid
How to get here: Located just outside Luganville, the site is about a 10-minute drive along the southeast coast road. You can get there by bus, taxi, or rental car.
Cost: If using the ‘official’ million dollar point entrance then the fee is 1000 Vatu per person/per day. If you use Million Dollar View resort next door then the fee is only 500 Vatu.
Local Tip: Million Dollar Point is divided between two kastom landowners, each with their own entrance and fee.
- The official Million Dollar Point entrance has an easier water entry, making it more family-friendly and ideal for kids, but it is more expensive.
- The Million Dollar View Resort entrance is cheaper and often better for snorkelling and beachcombing, with more visible marine life—but access can be rocky and a bit more challenging.
Either way it is highly advised that you bring reef shoes as there is lots of metal and glass across both sites. Snorkel equipment can be hired from Triton Explorers at Million Dollar View Resort.
2) Aore Island – Best Coral Reef Snorkelling in Espiritu Santo
Just across the channel from Luganville lies some of the best snorkelling in Espiritu Santo—Aore Island.
The island is home to several resorts, including Aore Island Resort and Freshwota Resort, both of which have excellent house reefs just off the beach. Expect clear water, healthy coral, and plenty of marine life.
These resorts are private, but if you make a booking (for example, lunch, a tour, or a day spa), they are usually happy to let guests snorkel. This makes Aore Island a great all-round day trip combining snorkelling, food, and relaxation.
Things to see: Healthy coral reefs and tropical fish.
Cost: No direct snorkelling fee, but you’ll need to make a reservation with one of the resorts.
How to get there: Boats depart from the wharf behind Santo Hardware in Luganville. There is a regular ferry service, or you can arrange transport directly with the resorts.
3) Tutuba Island – Remote Reef Snorkelling in Espiritu Santo
Another small island off the southeast coast of Espiritu Santo, Tutuba Island offers a more remote and off-the-beaten-path snorkelling experience.
While it’s not an official snorkelling tour, local landowners are happy to arrange boat snorkelling trips to nearby reefs. These tours usually depart from Million Dollar View Resort and can be booked through them.
One of the most well-known spots is Charles Reef, known for its calm, clear water and healthy coral. There is very little infrastructure on Tutuba, so it’s best to bring your own snacks, water, and gear for the day.
Things to see: Turtles, coral reefs, and tropical reef fish.
Cost: Local boats typically charge around 10,000 Vatu for a half-day trip, but prices can vary depending on the driver.
How to get there: Boats to Tutuba Island depart from Million Dollar View Resort, next to Million Dollar Point—approximately a 10-minute drive from Luganville
4) Surrunda Bay – Snorkelling with Dugongs in Espiritu Santo
Just a 15-minute drive from Luganville, Surrunda Bay offers some of the most unique snorkelling in Espiritu Santo.
This is a 2-hour guided snorkelling tour over beautiful coral reefs, with the rare chance to spot dugongs (sea cows) in their natural habitat. It is the only operator on the island offering dedicated dugong snorkelling, making it a truly exclusive experience.
The tour operates seasonally and is closed during February to protect the animals during mating season.
The same operators also run the well-known Santo horse adventure tours, making it a great way to tick multiple experiences off your Espiritu Santo bucket list in one trip.
Things to see: Dugongs, turtles, coral reefs, and tropical fish
Cost: 8,500 Vatu per adult, 4,000 Vatu per child under 8
How to get there: Around 15 minutes by car from Luganville. Book directly with the tour operators for schedules and availability
5) Mavea & Aese Islands – Untouched Coral Reefs in Espiritu Santo
Located on the east coast of Espiritu Santo near Turtle Bay, Mavea Island and Aese Island are the definition of an untouched tropical paradise.
With white sand beaches, crystal-clear water, and healthy coral reefs, these offshore islands offer some of the most pristine snorkelling in Espiritu Santo.
These islands are locally owned, so it’s best to book a boat or snorkeling tour with a local operator, as they can arrange permission to visit.
It’s also possible to kayak out if you’re confident and fit, but it’s recommended to speak with operators such as Turtle Bay Beach House and Turtle Bay Lodge for advice, conditions, and kayak hire.
Things to see: Lobster, coral reefs, and tropical reef fish.
Cost: Local boat tours typically cost around 6,000 Vatu per boat (usually seating 6–8 people)
How to get there: Boats usually depart from areas near Riri Blue Hole or Matevulu Blue Hole. Pick-up can also be arranged through nearby accommodation providers such as Matevulu Lodge, Turtle Bay Beach House, and Turtle Bay Lodge.
6) Dany Island – Marine Reserve & Turtle Nesting Spot
Another small eco-resort island off the west coast near Turtle Bay, Dany Island is a protected marine reserve with excellent snorkeling and healthy coral reefs.
This privately run island is known for its clear water, thriving reef systems, and relaxed atmosphere. It is also an important turtle nesting site, adding to its ecological value and making seasonal visits especially special.
Beyond snorkeling, it is one of the few places on Espiritu Santo where surfing is possible, depending on conditions.
Things to see: Turtles (including nesting in season), giant clams, reef fish, and coral gardens.
Cost: Contact the resort directly for current pricing and tour options.
How to get there: Transfers from accommodation in Espiritu Santo are usually included in snorkeling tours, or you can book accommodation on the island for direct access.
Honorable Mentions: Blue Holes & Iconic Beaches in Espiritu Santo
Along the north-east coast of Espiritu Santo, you’ll also find some of the island’s most breathtaking blue holes and beaches, including famous spots like Matevulu Blue Hole, Riri Blue Hole, and Nanda Blue Hole.
On the coastline, you’ll also find iconic beaches such as Champagne Beach and Port Olry, both known for their white sand, calm turquoise water, and laid-back tropical atmosphere.
These locations are true must-see highlights of Espiritu Santo, although they are better known for their scenery and swimming than for snorkelling quality.
That said, it’s still worth bringing a mask and snorkel, as many of these areas—especially around the blue holes and sheltered lagoons—offer clear water where you can occasionally spot small fish and enjoy incredibly calm conditions.
Things to see: Crystal-clear blue holes, tropical fish, jungle surroundings, white-sand beaches, and calm lagoon waters
Cost: Most sites charge a small local entry fee or land access donation.
How to get there: Easily accessible by road from Luganville, often included in east coast day trips or combined island tours
For more information, please visit our blog for additional guides and tips.
Snorkelling Equipment on Espiritu Santo
If you don’t have your own gear, snorkelling equipment is easy to organise in Espiritu Santo.
Most tour operators provide masks and snorkels as part of guided trips, but you can also buy basic equipment in town from local hardware stores and small dive operators. LCM supermarket has a good selection of masks and fins.
For higher-quality gear or dive-style equipment, it’s best to bring your own or hire it from local dive operators.
