If you’re looking for one of the most unique snorkelling spots in the world, Million Dollar Point should be at the very top of your list. Located just outside Luganville on the island of Espiritu Santo, this underwater junkyard has transformed into an extraordinary marine playground.
Here’s everything you need to know before you go …
What is Million Dollar Point?
During World War II, the island of Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu was home to one of the largest American military bases in the South Pacific.
When the war ended, the U.S. military had huge amounts of equipment they couldn’t take back to America. They offered to sell it cheaply to the British and French colonial governments at the time — but the offer was declined.Hoping to claim it for free later, they refused the deal.
Instead, the Americans dumped everything into the ocean — creating what we now know as Million Dollar Point.
Today, it’s one of the most fascinating WWII underwater sites in the world, and a must-visit for anyone interested in history, snorkelling, and marine life in Vanuatu.
To read the full breakdown of history read this post.
How to Get to Million Dollar Point?
Million Dollar Point is located on the south-east tip of Espiritu Santo, around a 10-minute drive from Luganville town.
Transport options:
Local bus: ~150 Vatu per person (each way)
Taxi: ~1000 Vatu per vehicle (each way)
Hire car: Follow the south coast road toward the airport, keep right until you see the marine park sign
It’s an easy and accessible location, making it one of the best snorkelling spots in Vanuatu and one of the most convenient to reach from Luganville.
Rad this post for more details on how to get around Espiritu Santo.
Entrance Fees on Million Dollar Point
One thing many people don’t realise is that Million Dollar Point is actually spread across two separate plots of land, each with different landowners and entrance fees.
The ‘official’ Million Dollar Point site charges an entrance fee of 1000 Vatu per person. This side has a sandy beach and a much easier entry into the water, which is great if you’re less confident or just want a relaxed swim. However, you will need to swim a bit further out to reach the main concentration of wreckage.
Right next door, Million Dollar View offers access for 500 Vatu per person. The entry here is a little more rugged, as this is where most of the artefacts were originally dumped. While it requires a bit more care getting in, it’s significantly better for snorkelling and beachcombing, with many items much closer to shore.
Equipment Hire on Million Dollar Point
Million Dollar View is home to Triton Explorers Dive Shop, where you can hire snorkelling equipment or even sign up for a discovery dive if you want to explore deeper parts of the site.
Aside from that, it’s a good idea to bring your own mask, snorkel, and fins if you have them. Many accommodations in Luganville provide snorkelling gear, and you can also purchase equipment locally. LCM supermarket in Luganville usually has a decent selection available.
Because this is a former military dump site, there is still a lot of old metal and glass along the shoreline. For that reason, reef shoes are strongly recommended to protect your feet when entering the water.
The water temperature is warm year-round, typically between 28–30°C, so a wetsuit isn’t necessary. However, wearing a rash guard and reef-safe sunscreen is highly recommended, as it’s very easy to get sunburnt while snorkelling.
Entry & Exit Points on Million Dollar Point
Entry and exit points at Million Dollar Point can be a little tricky if you don’t know where to go, as the metal structures create uneven footing in some areas.
On the ‘official’ Million Dollar Point side, it’s best to enter the water to the left of the tower, then swim across to the right where the snorkelling is better. When you’re ready to get out, return the same way, as other exit points can be difficult.
On the Million Dollar View side, there is a small path through the metal that provides a safer entry — the team at Triton Explorers Dive Shop can point this out to you. Alternatively, you can enter via the boat ramp area and swim to the left.
There is also a swim line on this side, which helps separate snorkellers from boat traffic and adds an extra layer of safety.
Taking a few minutes to identify your entry and exit points before getting in will make your experience much smoother and more enjoyable.
To see a full overview of the site see Reef Smart Guides 3D Map of Million Dollar Point.
What to See Snorkelling on Million Dollar Point
Snorkelling at Million Dollar Point is unlike anywhere else in the world. Beneath the surface, you’ll find the remains of a World War II dump site scattered across the seabed.
You can expect to see bulldozers, cranes, vehicles, oil drums, Coca-Cola bottles, serving trays, and countless other relics from the past. It’s an incredible experience swimming through what is essentially an underwater time capsule.
Over the years, marine life has made this site its home. Corals have grown over the metal structures, and the area is now filled with reef fish, starfish, clownfish, and even the occasional turtle. The contrast between rusting machinery and vibrant marine life is what makes this spot so special.
Diving Vs Snorkelling Million Dollar Point
The Million Dollar Point dive site slopes from the shoreline down to depths of over 40 metres, making it suitable for both snorkellers and scuba divers.
Snorkelling allows you to explore the shallower sections of the site, where many of the artefacts are still clearly visible and marine life is abundant. It’s an easy and accessible way to experience the site without any prior training.
Diving, however, gives you access to deeper areas where larger structures and more concentrated wreckage can be found. If you’ve never tried scuba diving before, this is a great place to do it. You can sign up for a discover scuba experience and explore the site under the guidance of trained professionals.
Whether you choose to snorkel or dive, Million Dollar Point offers a unique experience that caters to all levels.
Million Dollar Point Amenities
Amenities at Million Dollar Point are quite basic. The ‘official’ site has very limited facilities, so it’s best to come prepared.
On the Million Dollar View side, you’ll find a small local restaurant, basic toilet facilities, and a scuba diving centre, making it a slightly more comfortable place to spend a few hours.
Just a couple of minutes up the road, near the Presbyterian church, there is a small shopping area where you can find toiletries, snacks, food, cold drinks, and ice cream.
If you’re looking for a proper meal, Bombua Beach House is about a five-minute drive further down the road and is a great spot to relax after your snorkel. Heading back toward the airport, you’ll also find some excellent Thai food options worth checking out.
Best time to Visit Million Dollar Point
Million Dollar Point can be visited at any time of year, but timing your visit can make a noticeable difference to your experience.
If you’re interested in beachcombing and seeing more of the site from land, it’s best to visit at low tide. This allows you to explore more of the exposed shoreline, although it can make entering the water slightly more difficult.
At high tide, you won’t see as much from the shore, but the deeper water makes snorkelling easier and often more enjoyable.
There can occasionally be longshore currents, and these tend to be stronger around the full moon. Visibility can also be affected during these times. While conditions are never guaranteed, they are generally good throughout the year.
A useful local tip is to avoid visiting on days when a cruise ship is in port. The site can become very busy, buses are harder to catch, and taxi prices often increase.
Is Million Dollar Point safe?
Million Dollar Point is a former WWII dump site, which means there is still rusted metal and glass along the shoreline and in shallow areas. While much of it has been worn down over time, there are still occasional sharp edges, so reef shoes are strongly recommended and should be considered essential.
At low tide, both the metal and coral can become very shallow, making it easier to accidentally graze yourself if you’re not paying attention. Taking your time and being aware of your surroundings makes a big difference.
There can also be occasional currents, particularly around the full moon, so it’s always worth checking conditions before getting in. If you’re not a strong swimmer, bringing a float is a good idea for extra safety.
Because of these conditions, small children should always be accompanied by an adult. It’s also important not to touch or stand on coral, as this can damage the reef and harm marine life.
Final Thoughts
Million Dollar Point is more than just a snorkelling site — it’s a rare place where history and nature collide. Whether you come for the WWII story or the marine life, it’s easily one of the most unique experiences you can have in Vanuatu.
