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New Caledonia lies approximately 1,000 kilometres to the north-east of Australia in the southern Pacific. New Caledonia is a French colony and is an overseas community with special status.

More than 3328 botanical species from which 2644 are endemic (which means that they only exist on this island) make New Caledonia into a true paradise for nature lovers. Particularly worth mentioning are the more than 260 different kinds of fern and the New Caledonia Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef of the world.

As far as surfing, there are many spots that just wait to be discovered!

The New Caledonian climate is influenced, above all, by southwest trade winds.

The east is generally more humid than the west, which lies in the rain shadow of a mountain chain. The rainy season lasts from November to March and this is the warmest period. At this time, cyclones that are generated above the warm waters of the South Pacific, may hit the island sporadically.

Dry season is from May to September, the ideal holiday season from April to November.

The best time for surfing is from May to October, when it is relatively dry and powerful swells from the Antarctic hit the reefs of New Caledonia.

Many of the spots are located on the south side of the island and in front of the Great Barrier Reef. Normally there is a journey of some kilometres to be made to get to the spots, therefore a boat is essential.

The water is pleasantly warm all year round, but from May to October a shorty is recommended.

Best season for beginners: From September to May
Best season for advanced surfers: From June to October

Crowds: The waves are quite busy all year round

Flight connections are from Australia, New Zealand, some Asian cities like Soul in South Korea, Tokyo in Japan or other pacific islands. The international airport is Nouméa/La Tontouta (NOU). Air New Zealand, Qantas, Virgin Blue, Air Vanuatu or Air Caledonia fly directly.

On the island one can use the local airlines for inland flights. Also you can travel between the islands with ferries or small yachts. To explore the islands independently, a hire car is ideal. On the main island, Grand Terre, it’s very easy to organise one. The road system on Grand Terre is well developed.