Discover the spectacular East Coast of New Caledonia | New Caledonia Tourism: The official website for tourism in New Caledonia

To the east of New Caledonia’s central mountain range, tropical forests and mining areas dominate the landscape. This region is an ideal destination for immersive tribal getaways, mountain hikes, and refreshing experiences by rivers and waterfalls. The East Coast also boasts one of Grande Terre’s most picturesque coastal routes, including a charming ferry crossing that is still in operation.

To reach the East Coast from Nouméa, the best route is to head north towards Koné (3 hours and 20 minutes), then cross the central mountain range on the Koné-Tiwaka road. This winding and scenic road takes approximately one hour, meandering through rainforests and dry forests, offering numerous splendid viewpoints. From there, it’s a 30-minute drive to Poindimié or a one-hour drive to Hienghène. Although bus travel is possible, it’s a lengthy journey due to frequent stops. Hence, we recommend renting a car for convenience.

As you venture away from the capital towards the East Coast and its islands, you’ll immerse yourself in Kanak culture, where traditions remain deeply rooted. Daily life in these regions revolves around activities like harvesting and fishing, which also shape local festivals and fairs. From the Avocado Festival to the Lagoon Festival and the Taro Festival, these celebrations provide a glimpse into New Caledonian customs. You can experience traditional tribal accommodation, participate in meal preparation, engage in weaving, and share delightful moments of conviviality.

Top 5 things to do

on the East Coast

The Cascade de Tao in Hienghène, New Caledonia. — ©Tao waterfall, Hienghène|Marine Reveilhac

1. Take a refreshing dip at Tao waterfallHienghène

From the road leading to Hienghène from the north, you’ll spot the imposing 100-meter-high Tao Waterfall. A 30-minute hike rewards you with a breathtaking view of the lagoon, and you can cool off in one of the water basins.

©Kayaking at the foot of the rocks at Hienghène, East Coast|Elena Bianco - Lumix GH5 / NCT

2. Kayak along Hienghène’s Brooding HenHienghène

After admiring this imposing limestone formation from the road, rent a kayak at the Hienghène nautical base to get up close and personal with the hen-shaped rock!

Scuba diving and gorgonians in Hienghène lagoon, New Caledonia. — ©Gorgonian fans and scuba diving in Hienghène|Alize Diving / Satoshi Masuda

3. Dive over the coral reefPoindimié

Poindimié is renowned for its exceptional scuba diving spots, attracting divers from around the world due to the rich variety of fish and coral. Join the underwater adventure led by experienced instructors.

©River shrimp fishing, Poindimié|Eric Aubry

4. Immerse yourself in Kanak cultureHienghène / Touho

Staying with a local tribe promises unforgettable memories. You’ll learn ancestral skills like fishing and weaving and immerse yourself in the tribe’s daily life, fostering sharing and a refreshing change of scenery.

The GR Nord hiking trails in New Caledonia. — ©GR® Nord hiking trail|Les Plus Beaux Treks

5. Hike the GR® Nordfrom Touho to Ponérihouen

Traverse the heart of the Central Mountain Range on this long-distance hiking trail that connects different tribes. Experience a blend of athleticism, breathtaking vistas, and genuine encounters with the locals.

1. Take a refreshing dip at Tao waterfallHienghène

From the road leading to Hienghène from the north, you’ll spot the imposing 100-meter-high Tao Waterfall. A 30-minute hike rewards you with a breathtaking view of the lagoon, and you can cool off in one of the water basins.

2. Kayak along Hienghène’s Brooding HenHienghène

After admiring this imposing limestone formation from the road, rent a kayak at the Hienghène nautical base to get up close and personal with the hen-shaped rock!

3. Dive over the coral reefPoindimié

Poindimié is renowned for its exceptional scuba diving spots, attracting divers from around the world due to the rich variety of fish and coral. Join the underwater adventure led by experienced instructors.

4. Immerse yourself in Kanak cultureHienghène / Touho

Staying with a local tribe promises unforgettable memories. You’ll learn ancestral skills like fishing and weaving and immerse yourself in the tribe’s daily life, fostering sharing and a refreshing change of scenery.

5. Hike the GR® Nordfrom Touho to Ponérihouen

Traverse the heart of the Central Mountain Range on this long-distance hiking trail that connects different tribes. Experience a blend of athleticism, breathtaking vistas, and genuine encounters with the locals.

1. Take a refreshing dip at Tao waterfallHienghène

From the road leading to Hienghène from the north, you’ll spot the imposing 100-meter-high Tao Waterfall. A 30-minute hike rewards you with a breathtaking view of the lagoon, and you can cool off in one of the water basins.

2. Kayak along Hienghène’s Brooding HenHienghène

After admiring this imposing limestone formation from the road, rent a kayak at the Hienghène nautical base to get up close and personal with the hen-shaped rock!

3. Dive over the coral reefPoindimié

Poindimié is renowned for its exceptional scuba diving spots, attracting divers from around the world due to the rich variety of fish and coral. Join the underwater adventure led by experienced instructors.

4. Immerse yourself in Kanak cultureHienghène / Touho

Staying with a local tribe promises unforgettable memories. You’ll learn ancestral skills like fishing and weaving and immerse yourself in the tribe’s daily life, fostering sharing and a refreshing change of scenery.

5. Hike the GR® Nordfrom Touho to Ponérihouen

Traverse the heart of the Central Mountain Range on this long-distance hiking trail that connects different tribes. Experience a blend of athleticism, breathtaking vistas, and genuine encounters with the locals.

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Main destinations

Poindimié

Hienghène

Thio

Best Experiences

on the East Coast

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📷 /passer son chemin, se retourner, attendre le moment et saisir l’iPhone. No filtre. 📍/ 🇳🇨 Nouvelle Calédonie🏝️ Tribu de Hienghene 🔗📷 🏝️➡️ veroniquetournier #veroniquetournier #photography #photographie #reportagephotography #voyage #travel #travelphotography #naturephotography #landscapephotography #biodiversité #nouvellecaledonie #newcaledonia #hienghene newcaledoniatourism koulnouevillage

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🚣‍♀️🌊 Ready to embark on a kayaking adventure? Dive into the serenity of Lideralique Cliffs and paddle your way through nature's majestic wonders! 🏞️🚣 Nestled along the breathtaking East Coast, the Lideralique Cliffs boast stunning rock formations that rise majestically from the pristine waters below. With their rugged beauty and awe-inspiring views, these cliffs offer the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable kayaking experience 🚣‍♂️💦 ✨ Pack your sense of adventure and get ready to make memories that will last a lifetime! 🌄 Click link in bio for more info 👆 #LideraliqueCliffs #KayakingAdventure #NatureExploration #ExploreNewCaledonia #OutdoorAdventure #WaterSports #TravelInspiration #BucketListDestination #DiscoverNature #IslandLife #Wanderlust #OceanVibes #AdventureAwaits #TravelGoals #NewCaledoniaBeauty #CloserThanYouThink #NaturePhotography #TravelPhotography #SeasideEscape #RockFormations #CalmingWaters #SereneParadise #IslandAdventures #ExploreTheOutdoors #DreamDestination #KayakLife #PaddlePower #NewCaledonia 📍 Hienghene, New Caledonia 📸 © anaellechretienoff & stevenlqr | NCT

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