Experience Nature's Splendor at Rockwater Marine Sanctuary
Discover the breathtaking beauty and ecological wonders of Rockwater Marine Sanctuary on North West Tanna Island, Vanuatu.
Rockwater Marine Sanctuary is a serene ecological park located on North West Tanna Island, offering breathtaking coastal views, diverse marine life, and lush tropical landscapes. A must-visit for nature enthusiasts!
A brief summary to Rockwater Marine Sanctuary
- H6JP+R34, Ocean Road Ipak Bay, North West Tanna Island, Iuiak, VU
- +6785651300
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon to enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting for photography.
- Bring snorkeling gear to explore the vibrant marine life in the clear waters surrounding the sanctuary.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, as there are several trails leading to stunning viewpoints within the park.
- Respect the local wildlife and follow guidelines to protect the delicate ecosystems in the sanctuary.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car, start from the main town of Lenakel, which is about 30 kilometers from Rockwater Marine Sanctuary. Head north on the main road, following signs toward Iuiak. After approximately 20 kilometers, you will reach a junction; take a left turn onto Ocean Road. Continue on this road for about 10 kilometers. You will see signs directing you to Rockwater Marine Sanctuary. The sanctuary is located at H6JP+R34, Ocean Road Ipak Bay, North West Tanna Island, Iuiak.
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Public Transport (Minibus)
To get to Rockwater Marine Sanctuary using public transport, catch a minibus from Lenakel heading toward Iuiak. The fare is approximately 300 Vatu. Inform the driver that you want to get off at Ocean Road. The journey will take about 40 minutes. Once you arrive at Ocean Road, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the sanctuary. Follow the road signs leading to Rockwater Marine Sanctuary.
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Taxi
Hiring a taxi is another option if you prefer a more direct route. From Lenakel, negotiate a fare with the driver, which could range from 1,500 to 3,000 Vatu, depending on your negotiation skills and the driver’s rates. The taxi will take you directly to Rockwater Marine Sanctuary, which is located at H6JP+R34, Ocean Road Ipak Bay, North West Tanna Island, Iuiak. The journey should take around 30 minutes.
Discover more about Rockwater Marine Sanctuary
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rockwater Resort
0.1 km
Discover tranquility at Rockwater Resort, a stunning coastal retreat on Tanna Island, blending luxury with the beauty of nature.
White Grass Ocean Resort & Spa
2.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tanna at White Grass Ocean Resort & Spa, where luxury and nature meet in a tropical paradise.
Volcano Island Divers
2.8 km
Experience the breathtaking underwater world of Vanuatu with Volcano Island Divers, a premier scuba tour agency dedicated to unforgettable adventures.
Tanna Evergreen Resort & Tours
3.2 km
Discover the beauty of Vanuatu at Tanna Evergreen Resort & Tours, where adventure meets relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Giant Banyan Tree
9.7 km
Discover the enchanting Giant Banyan Tree in Middle Bush Tanna, a historical landmark that showcases nature's beauty and cultural heritage.
Sunset Bungalows
12.6 km
Discover the peaceful charm of Sunset Bungalows in Lenakel, Vanuatu, where breathtaking sunsets and relaxation await every traveler.
Quarumanu area
13.1 km
Experience tranquility and adventure in the Quarumanu area of Tanna Island, a perfect blend of comfort and natural beauty in Vanuatu.
Lenakel Wharf
13.2 km
Explore Lenakel Wharf, a vibrant port in Tanna Island, Vanuatu, where local culture meets stunning ocean views and fresh seafood delights.
Tafutuna Cultural Experience
14.1 km
Explore the rich cultural heritage of Tanna, Vanuatu, through the Tafutuna Cultural Experience, a unique blend of education and local tradition.
Tanna Lodge
15.6 km
Discover the charm of Tanna Lodge, your serene escape in Vanuatu, blending comfort with cultural immersion amidst stunning natural beauty.
Yakel Custom Village Bungalow
17.5 km
Discover the charm of Tanna Island at Yakel Custom Village Bungalow, where authentic culture meets natural beauty in an unforgettable island experience.
Tanna Lava View Bungalows
22.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Tanna Island at Tanna Lava View Bungalows, your perfect getaway in Vanuatu.
Friendly Beach bungalows
23.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tanna Island at Friendly Beach Bungalows, a perfect blend of comfort and nature for your unforgettable getaway.
Volcano Island Paradise Bungalows
24.3 km
Experience the tranquility of Tanna Island at Volcano Island Paradise Bungalows, where stunning landscapes and warm hospitality await you.
Tanna Volcano Transfers and Tours
24.8 km
Discover the thrilling beauty of Tanna Island with guided tours to active volcanoes, lush landscapes, and rich cultural experiences that await every traveler.
Unmissable attractions to see
Circus Reef
0.2 km
Explore the mesmerizing underwater world of Circus Reef, a premier snorkeling paradise in Vanuatu, teeming with vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations.
Ipak Bay Fun Tours
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Ipak Bay Fun Tours, where adventure meets relaxation on Tanna Island's unique black sand beaches.
Blue Hole 2
2.0 km
Experience the mesmerizing beauty of Blue Hole 2 in Iuiak, a tropical paradise perfect for snorkeling, swimming, and enjoying nature's tranquility.
Green Hill Botanical Garden & Conservation Area
7.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Green Hill Botanical Garden, a national treasure showcasing Vanuatu's diverse flora and fauna.
Blue Cave
7.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Blue Cave in Lenakel, a must-visit natural wonder with stunning blue waters and vibrant marine life.
Lowtal
9.5 km
Discover Lowtal's breathtaking hiking trails in Lowanatom, Vanuatu, where nature's beauty awaits every adventurer.
Nikinamap Toka Dance Tour
9.6 km
Discover the essence of Vanuatu through the Nikinamap Toka Dance Tour, where traditional dance and vibrant culture come to life.
Ikapau Plantations
11.8 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Ikapau Plantations, a serene garden oasis in Vanuatu perfect for nature lovers and peaceful retreats.
Louniel Beach
12.2 km
Explore the untouched beauty of Louniel Beach in Vanuatu, where turquoise waters and pristine sands create a tropical paradise for relaxation and adventure.
Traditional village
14.7 km
Explore the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Lownapek's traditional village, a captivating destination in Vanuatu.
Tanna
16.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes, active volcanoes, and rich culture of Tanna Island, a hidden paradise in the South Pacific.
Ash plain’s
24.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Ash Plains at Mt. Yasur, a stunning landscape in Tanna, Vanuatu, perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Mount Yasur (Active Volcano)
25.4 km
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty and raw power of Mount Yasur, Vanuatu's iconic active volcano, a must-visit for adventure lovers.
Mount Yasur
25.4 km
Experience the breathtaking eruptions of Mount Yasur, one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes, in the heart of Vanuatu's lush landscapes.
Mt Yasur Volcano Tours - Unity Airlines
25.6 km
Witness the awe-inspiring eruptions of Mt. Yasur, one of the world's most accessible active volcanoes on your unforgettable Vanuatu adventure.
Essential places to dine
Tanna Early Beach Restaurant & Snorkelling
3.9 km
Explore culinary delights and vibrant marine life at Tanna Early Beach Restaurant & Snorkelling – a true island experience.
Blue Reef Resort and Tours
7.6 km
Experience paradise at Blue Reef Resort and Tours on Tanna Island - where stunning nature meets authentic local culture.
Lowmusa Kava Bar
9.6 km
Discover the essence of Vanuatu at Lowmusa Kava Bar - where tradition meets vibrant social life in an inviting atmosphere.
Mahau Kava bar
9.6 km
Experience authentic Vanuatu culture at Mahau Kava Bar in Lowanatom—your gateway to kava traditions and local hospitality.
Bob's Kava Bar
9.7 km
Experience authentic Vanuatu culture at Bob's Kava Bar—your ultimate destination for relaxation and traditional kava enjoyment.
Mangoes Kava Bar
9.8 km
Experience authentic Vanuatu culture at Mangoes Kava Bar - your go-to spot for relaxing kava drinks in Lowanatom.
David's Kava bar
9.8 km
Discover relaxation at David's Kava Bar in Lowanatom – sip on traditional kava and embrace Vanuatu's rich culture.
Lowkanier Kava Bar
9.9 km
Discover the essence of Vanuatu at Lowkanier Kava Bar—where tradition meets relaxation in an inviting atmosphere.
Kava bar
10.1 km
Experience authentic Vanuatu culture at Kava Bar—where relaxation meets tradition amidst vibrant island vibes.
Sunset Kava Bar
10.1 km
Experience authentic Vanuatu culture at Sunset Kava Bar - sip on traditional kava while enjoying stunning sunset views.
Andru's Kava bar
10.2 km
Discover the essence of Vanuatu at Andru's Kava Bar – sip traditional kava in a vibrant community setting.
Will Smith Kava Bar
12.8 km
Discover the essence of Vanuatu's culture at Will Smith Kava Bar - where relaxation meets tradition.
Restaurant
12.9 km
Experience family-friendly dining in Lenakel with delicious local and international cuisine amidst stunning island scenery.
Dino's Cafe
13.0 km
Discover authentic Vanuatuan cuisine at Dino's Cafe in Lenakel – where every meal tells a story.
Chicken and Chips
13.1 km
Discover delectable fried chicken and golden chips at Chicken and Chips in Lenakel - a true taste of Vanuatu's culinary delights.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Blue cave tanna tours office
6.7 km
Explore the Blue Cave and immerse yourself in Tanna's natural beauty at the charming Blue Cave Tanna Tours Office, your adventure starts here.
Taste Life Baker & Butcher Shop
7.1 km
Discover the flavors of Vanuatu at Taste Life Baker & Butcher Shop, where fresh ingredients and local traditions meet.
Edmond Store
9.6 km
Discover Edmond Store in Tanna, your convenient stop for snacks and essentials while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Vanuatu.
Boulanger
9.8 km
Experience the local culinary delight at Boulanger, a charming bakery in Lowanatom, offering fresh pastries and artisanal breads.
Jimmy Alice Store
9.9 km
Explore the vibrant offerings of Jimmy Alice Store in Lowanatom for a genuine taste of Vanuatu's local culture and convenience.
Bill Iapsen Hardware
12.7 km
Discover the essential hardware store in Lenakel, Vanuatu, blending local culture with practical goods for all your travel needs.
Covered Market
12.8 km
Explore the lively Covered Market in Lenakel for an authentic taste of Tanna Island's culture, food, and handmade crafts.
Bill Iapsen Enterprise
13.0 km
Explore the authentic tastes of Vanuatu at Bill Iapsen Enterprise, your premier grocery store in Lenakel.
Hardware Shop
13.0 km
Discover essential tools and supplies at Lenakel's Hardware Shop, your go-to destination for DIY projects and local craftsmanship.
AB Store
13.0 km
Experience the essence of Vanuatu's culinary delights at AB Store in Lenakel, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.
KAPAN BAKERY SHOP & RESTAURANT
13.1 km
Discover the flavors of Tanna Island at Kapan Bakery Shop & Restaurant, where tradition meets taste in every bite.
Zm's IT Solution & Movies Update
13.1 km
Experience the charm of film rentals at Zm's IT Solution & Movies Update in Lenakel, the perfect stop for movie lovers seeking entertainment.
Lenakel Market
13.1 km
Explore Lenakel Market - a vibrant showcase of local culture, delicious cuisine, and unique crafts in the heart of Vanuatu.
Tanna Craft Centre
13.1 km
Explore the vibrant Tanna Craft Centre in Lenakel, where local artisans showcase their exquisite handmade crafts and cultural treasures.
