Paama, Vanuatu Travel Guide

Discover Paama Island in Vanuatu: A serene paradise with pristine beaches, lush forests, and rich cultural heritage perfect for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts.

Paama is a small island in Vanuatu, known for its untouched natural beauty and vibrant local culture. The island offers a unique experience for tourists seeking tranquility and an authentic taste of island life. With its lush greenery, pristine beaches, and warm-hearted locals, Paama is a paradise for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike. One of the highlights of visiting Paama is exploring its stunning landscapes. The island is surrounded by clear blue waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The underwater world is rich with colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life. On land, visitors can hike through tropical forests, enjoy breathtaking views from the island's peaks, and discover hidden waterfalls. Paama's culture is deeply rooted in tradition. Visitors can immerse themselves in local customs by attending traditional dances and ceremonies. The islanders are known for their craftsmanship and produce beautiful handmade souvenirs. Don't miss the opportunity to taste local delicacies, especially fresh seafood caught by local fishermen. Despite its remote location, Paama is accessible by small planes and boats. The island offers a range of accommodation options, from homestays with local families to eco-friendly lodges. Whether you're looking to relax on a serene beach, explore nature, or learn about local culture, Paama promises an unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Paama.

Bring cash as there are no ATMs on the island.
Respect local customs and traditions, especially when attending ceremonies.
Pack insect repellent and sunscreen for outdoor activities.
Try to learn a few words in the local language to connect with the islanders.

Explore Paama: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Paama

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Summit Gardens Vanuatu

Experience the tranquility of Summit Gardens Vanuatu, a lush oasis in Port Vila where nature's beauty meets serene relaxation.

Tarusa Water-fall

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Tarusa Waterfall in Pentecost, Vanuatu— a hidden gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Best restaurants in Paama

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The Beach Bar

Experience family-friendly fun and breathtaking ocean views at The Beach Bar in Vanuatu - your ultimate tropical escape!

4.4

The Stonegrill Restaurant

Experience an unforgettable dining adventure at The Stonegrill Restaurant in Port Vila with sizzling hot stone cooking.

4.7

Waterfront Bar and Grill

Experience exquisite dining at Waterfront Bar and Grill in Port Vila with stunning waterfront views and delicious local cuisine.

4.1

Reefers Restaurant & Rum Bar

Experience the vibrant flavors of Vanuatu at Reefers Restaurant & Rum Bar - where culinary delight meets tropical charm.

4.3

Best bars in Paama

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The Beach Bar

Experience family-friendly fun at The Beach Bar, Mele, Vanuatu, where delicious food meets breathtaking views and vibrant entertainment.

4.4

Waterfront Bar and Grill

Experience the best of Vanuatu's cuisine with breathtaking waterfront views at Waterfront Bar and Grill in Port Vila.

4.1

Cafe Vila

Discover the culinary delights of Café Vila in Port Vila, where local flavors meet breathtaking ocean views.

4.4

War Horse Saloon

Experience the vibrant nightlife and local charm at War Horse Saloon, a lively bar in Port Vila offering great drinks and entertainment.

4.0

Best nightclubs in Paama

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Club Lit

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Port Vila at Club Lit, where music and dance create unforgettable memories in Vanuatu.

3.0

ELEKTROROCK

Experience the electrifying nightlife of Port Vila at ELEKTROROCK, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await.

5.0

Best shops in Paama

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Fung Kuei Duty Free

Explore Fung Kuei Duty Free in Port Vila for exceptional duty-free shopping, featuring liquor, luxury items, and unique Vanuatu souvenirs.

4.4

Au Bon Marché Numbatu

Discover a vibrant shopping haven at Au Bon Marché Numbatu in Port Vila – where local flavors meet everyday essentials.

4.2

Tana Russet Plaza

Experience the vibrant shopping and cultural heart of Port Vila at Tana Russet Plaza, where local flavors and unique finds await.

4.2

Paris Shopping - Duty Free Vanuatu

Explore luxury shopping at Paris Shopping Duty Free Vanuatu, where exclusive brands meet unbeatable prices in the heart of Port Vila.

4.1

Explore Paama on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Paama, mapped for you.

Paama Essentials

Paama is a small island in Vanuatu, accessible primarily by air. The nearest airport is Bauerfield International Airport (VLI) in Port Vila, Vanuatu's capital. From Port Vila, you can take a domestic flight to Paama Airport (PBJ). Flights are operated by Air Vanuatu. Alternatively, you can take a boat from nearby islands such as Lamen Bay or Epi Island, which is a more adventurous but less predictable option due to weather conditions.
Transportation on Paama is quite limited due to its small size. The primary modes of transport are walking and small boats. There are no formal public transportation systems on the island, but you can hire local boats to travel between villages or to nearby islands. Some locals may offer rides on their private vehicles, but this is less common.
The official currency in Vanuatu is the Vatu (VUV). Paama has no ATMs or banks, so it is crucial to bring enough cash for your stay. Credit cards are not accepted on the island. It's best to withdraw cash in Port Vila before traveling to Paama. Ensure you have smaller denominations, as making change can be difficult in remote areas.
Paama is generally a safe destination with very low crime rates. However, it is always good practice to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and not walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists on Paama.
In case of an emergency, contact local authorities or seek assistance from the nearest village chief, who can coordinate help. There are no hospitals on Paama, so for serious medical emergencies, evacuation to a larger island such as Epi or even back to Port Vila may be necessary. It is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in villages. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress conservatively and remove hats. Public Transport: Since there is no formal public transport, be respectful and polite if offered a ride. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. A slight bow of the head is also a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite. Always ask before taking photos of people or places of cultural significance.
To experience Paama like a local, engage with the island's warm and welcoming residents. Participate in traditional dances and ceremonies if invited. Visit the local markets to buy fresh produce and handmade crafts. Take the time to learn a few words in Bislama, the local language, which will be greatly appreciated by the locals. Enjoy the pristine beaches and take part in fishing, which is a significant part of Paama's culture.

When is the best time to visit Paama?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Paama

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Paama. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHalo
  [ha-lo]
- GoodbyeBai
  [bye]
- YesYes
  [yes]
- NoNo
  [no]
- Please/You're welcomePlis
  [plees]
- Thank youTenkyu
  [ten-kyu]
- Excuse me/SorrySori
  [so-ree]
- How are you?Olsem wanem?
  [ol-sem wa-nen]
- Fine. And you?I gud. Moa yu?
  [ee good. mo-ah you?]
- Do you speak English?Yu tok Pijin?
  [you tok pee-jin]
- I don't understandMi no save
  [mee no sah-veh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi wantem lukim menu, plis
  [mee wan-tem loo-kim men-u, plees]
- I don't eat meatMi no kakae mit
  [mee no kah-kye mit]
- Cheers!Sikim!
  [see-keem]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi wantem pai, plis
  [mee wan-tem pie, plees]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Go awei!
  [go ah-way]
- Call the Police!Kolim Polis!
  [ko-leem po-lees]
- Call a doctor!Kolim dokta!
  [ko-leem dok-ta]
- I'm lostMi los
  [mee los]
- I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]
- I'd like to buy...Mi wantem bai...
  [mee wan-tem bye]
- I'm just lookingMi lukim nomo
  [mee loo-kim no-mo]
- How much is it?Hao mak it?
  [how mak it]
- That's too expensiveDat i tumas
  [dat ee too-mas]
- Can you lower the price?Yu save redusim praes?
  [you sah-veh red-oo-sim prize]
- What time is it?Hao taem i?
  [how time ee]
- It's one o'clockI wan o'klok
  [ee wan oh-clock]
- Half past (10)Haf pas (10)
  [haf pas ten]
- MorningMornin
  [mor-ning]
- AfternoonAftanun
  [af-ta-noon]
- EveningIvening
  [ee-ven-ing]
- YesterdayYestede
  [yes-te-de]
- TodayTude
  [too-dee]
- TomorrowTumoro
  [too-mo-ro]
- 1Wan
  [wan]
- 2Tu
  [too]
- 3Tri
  [tree]
- 4Foa
  [fo-ah]
- 5Faef
  [fife]
- 6Siks
  [siks]
- 7Sev
  [sev]
- 8Eit
  [eight]
- 9Nain
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Wea i...?
  [we-ah ee]
- What's the address?Hao i long?
  [how ee long]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu save soem mi (long map)?
  [you sah-veh so-em mee long map]
- When's the next (bus)?Hwen i next (basa)?
  [hwen ee next bus-a]
- A ticket (to ....)Wan tiket (go ...)
  [wan ti-ket go]

History of Paama

The island of Paama, part of the archipelago of Vanuatu, has a rich history dating back to its earliest inhabitants. Archaeological evidence suggests that the first settlers arrived on Paama around 3,000 years ago, part of the Lapita culture known for their distinct pottery and navigational skills. These early inhabitants laid the foundations of the island's cultural and social structures that continue to influence life on Paama today.
In the late 18th century, European explorers began to arrive in the Pacific, including on the shores of Paama. Notably, Captain James Cook sailed through the region in 1774, mapping parts of the Vanuatu archipelago and establishing initial contact with the islanders. Although Cook did not land on Paama itself, his voyages opened the region to subsequent European exploration and influence.
The 19th century saw the arrival of Christian missionaries on Paama. The most significant of these were the Presbyterian missionaries who arrived in the 1860s. They established churches and schools, profoundly impacting the island's cultural and religious landscape. Christianity gradually became a dominant force on the island, intertwining with traditional beliefs and customs.
Paama, like the rest of Vanuatu, experienced significant changes during the colonial era. Initially governed under a unique Anglo-French condominium known as the 'New Hebrides,' the island was subject to both British and French colonial administration. This dual governance created a complex social and political environment. Vanuatu eventually gained independence from colonial rule on July 30, 1980, marking a new chapter in Paama's history as part of the sovereign nation of Vanuatu.
Today, Paama is a vibrant island that balances its rich historical heritage with the challenges and opportunities of modernity. The island is known for its traditional dances, music, and festivals, which are celebrated with great fervor. These cultural expressions are not just tourist attractions but integral parts of the island's identity, reflecting the enduring spirit and resilience of the Paamese people.