Nouméa's Amédée islet and its lighthouse as seen from a helicopter flight.Îlot and Lighthouse Amédée, Nouméa
©Îlot and Lighthouse Amédée, Nouméa|Marine Reveilhac

Amédée Lighthouse

Noumea
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Ever wondered about that intriguing white dot in the middle of the turquoise lagoon visible from Nouméa? That’s the Amédée Lighthouse, perched on îlot Amédée within a protected marine reserve. It beckons travellers in search of escape, beauty, and relaxation. On-site, a plethora of activities await those seeking an enriching and exciting day. Come aboard and let your emotions carry you away!

Located to the south-southeast of Nouméa, the Amédée Lighthouse is easily accessible, just 40 minutes by boat. Two options are available for reaching it: the taxi-boat or the Mary D ferry. Several companies operate the crossings to îlot Amédée from Port Moselle in the city centre or the ports near Baie des Citrons and Anse-Vata. The Mary D agency offers one-way round trips or day packages, which include various on-site activities, entertainment, and a sumptuous Oceanian buffet. Keep your senses engaged during the journey; your guide will provide valuable insights about the islet, the lighthouse, and the surrounding marine reserve!

  • To avoid crowds, consider visiting during the week.
  • Bring covered shoes (coral beach) for a comfortable stroll.
  • Photography enthusiasts, remember to use UV filters for your cameras; the light at the Amédée Lighthouse is dazzling.
  • As a designated marine reserve, specific conservation measures apply: no fishing, touching turtles, disturbing small sea creatures, or collecting shells are allowed.

1. Go scuba diving or snorkeling

Amédée Island: A gem close to Nouméa
Amédée Island: A gem close to Nouméa
Amédée Island: A gem close to Nouméa

New Caledonia is renowned as a diver’s paradise, thanks to its ideal weather conditions and a wide range of dive sites. The Caledonian lagoon, a UNESCO natural heritage site, is perfect for beginners and experienced divers alike. Whether you choose scuba diving or snorkelling, the Amédée Lighthouse Marine Protected Area will leave you awe-struck! Blue Caledonia Diving offers diving baptisms and snorkelling trips departing from Nouméa, and Mary D rents snorkelling equipment.

2. Indulge in the Mary D buffet

Buffet on the Amédée islet in NouméaBuffet on the Amédée islet in Nouméa
©Buffet on the Amédée islet in Nouméa|Marine Reveilhac / NCT
Tahitian music and dance at l'îlot Amédée in Nouméa, New Caledonia.Tahitian dance and music on Amédée island
©Tahitian dance and music on Amédée island|Mary D Entreprise

    What could be better than a beachfront lunch with turquoise waters as your backdrop? Mary D’s day trip to the Amédée Lighthouse includes an all-you-can-eat buffet with delightful Oceanic influences! Under the shade of filaos and coconut palms, long wooden tables showcase Pacific culinary treasures: Tahitian salad, papaya, shellfish, grilled meats, and more. To make this gourmet experience even more special, enjoy a Polynesian dance show, the tamouré, during the meal.

    3. Climb to the top of the Amédée lighthouse

    View of the Amédée lighthouse in NouméaView of the Amédée lighthouse in Nouméa
    ©View of the Amédée lighthouse in Nouméa|Marine Reveilhac / NCT
      Staircase of the Amédée lighthouse in NouméaStaircase of the Amédée lighthouse in Nouméa
      ©Staircase of the Amédée lighthouse in Nouméa|Toko / NCT

        Soaring at 56 metres, the Amédée Lighthouse stands proudly on the islet. Inaugurated on November 15, 1865, it’s the sole remaining metal lighthouse in France, following the destruction of its near-twin, the Roches-Douvres Lighthouse, in 1944. The view from this unique architectural gem is well worth the climb; nearly 247 steps lead to its summit. It’s no wonder it ranks as the world’s tallest metal lighthouse! From the top, savour the breathtaking views of the lagoon, the reef, and the Grande Terre mountain range. As you read the lighthouse’s explanatory notes, you’ll understand why it’s protected as one of New Caledonia’s historical monuments.

        Iris Caledonian DreamIris Caledonian Dream
        ©Iris Caledonian Dream

        So much for the 247 steps to climb to reach the top. The panoramic view at the top of the lighthouse is incredible, and we even got a naked-eye view of a group of baby sharks and turtles.

        Iris, Caledonian Dream season 2

        4. Mail your postcards from the Island

        Mailbox on the Amédée islet, NouméaMailbox on the Amédée island in Nouméa
        ©Mailbox on the Amédée islet, Nouméa|Toko / NCT

          Surprise your loved ones by sending them postcards directly from the lighthouse itself! Next to the small souvenir shop, offering various items and charming cards, you’ll find a dedicated mailbox on the beach. Your card will bear the official “Phare Amédée” postmark.

          List of shuttles and taxi-boats

          5. Relax and capture beautiful photos

          The beaches of îlot Amédée invite you to unwind. There’s nothing like lounging in the shade on soft sand with crystal-clear waters before you. For added comfort, you can even rent deckchairs. Don’t be alarmed by the occasional striped sea snakes at the water’s edge; they are shy and won’t disturb you. Use the opportunity to capture stunning photos of the local flora and fauna. If you’re feeling active, explore the islet‘s tropical vegetation by taking a leisurely walk. Don’t miss out on swimming, snorkelling, kitesurfing, diving, and stand-up paddling in this island paradise.

          Striped knitting on Nouméa's isletsStriped knitting on Nouméa's islets
          ©Striped knitting on Nouméa's islets|Valentin Pacaut / The Explorers / NCT
            Bathing at Islet Amédée, NouméaBathing at Islet Amédée, Nouméa
            ©Bathing at Islet Amédée, Nouméa|Toko / NCT
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