Noumea's must-see neighbourhoods

The vibrant neighbourhood’s of Anse-Vata and Baie des Citrons (Lemon Bay) are the heart of Nouméa. Locals gather here after work, on evenings, and weekends for activities like swimming, water sports, shopping, seaside lunches, sunset drinks, and lively night parties. Both day and night, these bays offer a plethora of activities to satisfy every interest. Lemon Bay is known for its concentration of restaurants and bars, with a family-friendly beach. Anse-Vata features a shopping complex and is the go-to beach for kiteboarding, as well as the departure point for taxi boats to Ilot Canard (Duck island) and Ilot Maître (Master island).

In Nouméa, the Faubourg Blanchot quarter takes you on a trail amid the oldest colonial villas, bridging the city centre and the seafront. Built by colonists and convicts in the late 19th century, these wooden houses bear witness to Caledonian architecture. The Maison Célières, constructed in 1898, is the only colonial house open to the public. The heritage track leads to around sixty colonial villas, each marked along the route. Learn more at the Nouméa Tourist Office.

Heading towards the sea from the Latin Quarter, you’ll come across the municipal market, also known as the Moselle market because it’s located on the port of the same name. Be sure not to miss a visit during your stay! Under its halls with blue-tiled roofs, stalls compete for the most beautiful tropical fruits, catches of the day, and Pacific specialties. Outside, craft stalls are perfect for buying souvenirs. Port Moselle is also the starting point for sea outings (catamaran rental, whale watching, transfer to the DoubleTree by Hilton, visit to the Amédée Lighthouse, etc.) and the gateway for all yachtsmen. The neighbourhood is lively, regularly hosting themed evenings and concerts at Le Bout du Monde, a bar-restaurant with a view of the boats. Finally, the port serves as the home base for villages during major nautical events like the Groupama Race.