Your Tropical Home in Espiritu Santo: A Guide to Staying in Luganville

Picking the right base can shape your whole Vanuatu holiday. In Santo, a relaxed resort close to the water makes every day easier.

Coral Quays Resort is a peaceful island retreat in Saint Michel, Luganville, on Espiritu Santo. It is surrounded by lush tropical gardens and swaying coconut palms.

This guide explains what the resort offers and who it suits.

Where Is the Resort?

The resort sits in Saint Michel, Luganville, close to the waterfront. Luganville is Vanuatu’s second largest town and the main town on Espiritu Santo.

Many travellers ask, is Luganville worth visiting or should they stay in Port Vila? Santo offers a slower pace, a fascinating wartime history and excellent diving right on the doorstep.

Rooms and Bungalows

Every room at Coral Quays Resort is 30m2 and blends simple island charm with modern comforts. Here are the four options, with starting prices listed on the resort website:

1. Superior Queen Room: 2 guests, 1 queen bed, from VUV 15,600
2. Superior Ocean View Room: 2 guests, 1 queen bed, from VUV 17,600
3. Triple Share: 3 guests, 3 king single beds, from VUV 18,600
4. Family Bungalow: 4 guests, queen bed and king single bunks, from VUV 19,600

Prices can change, so check the website before you book.

Resort Facilities

The facilities are simple, useful and comfortable. Guests can expect:

• An outdoor swimming pool
• Restaurant and bar
• Parking and laundry services
• Free WiFi in public areas
• Bike and kayak hire
• Airport transfer assistance

Divers will appreciate the secure gear washing, drying and storage. The resort also has a staffed tour desk.

Food and Drink

The onsite restaurant and bar serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu features fresh seafood, local produce and international favourites.

Cold drinks and cocktails are also on offer. Many guests say dinner on the deck, with the ocean close by, is a trip highlight.

Getting Into Town

The resort runs a twice daily shuttle into Luganville town. It is a simple way to reach local markets, shops and cafés.

The Luganville market is a great place to try tropical fruit and local produce. Shops often close earlier than visitors expect, so plan your outings with that in mind.

Local Tours and Activities

The tour desk can help you book:

1. Snorkelling and diving
2. Blue hole trips
3. Cultural visits
4. Markets and beaches
5. Hidden Santo gems

Santo is known for the SS President Coolidge wreck dive, Million Dollar Point and the Millennium Cave, Riri Blue Hole and Nanda Blue Hole. Champagne Beach is regularly ranked among the best in the Pacific.

So, is Luganville worth visiting for the experiences alone? Most guests would say yes.

Why Guests Choose This Resort

Travellers return because it gets the balance right. It offers comfortable accommodation, honest pricing and genuine service.

Coral Quays Resort is locally run and not part of a large chain. The team includes people who grew up on Santo, so tour recommendations come from real experience.

The resort suits:

• Couples
• Solo travellers
• Friends and small groups
• Families
• Divers

How To Get There

1. Fly into Port Vila from Australia or New Zealand.
2. Take an Air Vanuatu domestic flight to Santo, or travel by ferry for a slower journey.
3. Land at Santo Pekoa International Airport.
4. Take a taxi or ask the team to help arrange a transfer.

The resort website has a Getting Here page with full travel details.

Practical Tips Before You Arrive

A few small details make a big difference once you land:

• Currency: The Vanuatu Vatu is the local currency, though many businesses also accept Australian dollars.
• Language: Bislama, English and French are all widely spoken.
• Weather: Santo is warm year round, with a wetter season from November to April.
• Cash: ATMs exist in town, but carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What room types are available?

Guests can choose a Superior Queen Room, Superior Ocean View Room, Triple Share or Family Bungalow.

2. Does the resort have a pool and WiFi?

Yes. There is an outdoor swimming pool, and complimentary WiFi is available in public areas.

3. Is there a shuttle to Luganville town?

Yes. A twice daily shuttle runs to and from town.

4. Can I store my dive gear?

Yes. Secure gear washing, drying and storage facilities are available.

5. Is Luganville worth visiting for a short stay?

Many guests find 3 to 5 days enough to see the main sights, dive the wreck and relax. The dry season from May to October offers the most reliable weather.

6. How do I book?

You can contact the team on (+678) 37799 or at admin@coralquaysresort.vu. The website also advertises exclusive discounts for guests who book direct.

Final Thoughts

A good base makes Santo even better. With comfortable bungalows, island dining and helpful local advice, Coral Quays Resort is a relaxed place to start your adventure.

Send your preferred dates and the team will confirm availability.