How to Get to Aore Island Resort [2025–2026 Guide]
To reach Aore Island Resort in Vanuatu (2025–2026), fly to Santo-Pekoa Airport, take a 10-minute taxi (≈1,500 VUV), then a 10-minute boat transfer (≈2,000 VUV, often included).
Hidden in the South Pacific, Aore Island Resort is a tropical paradise in Vanuatu, just across from Luganville, Espiritu Santo. Getting there is straightforward, but since it’s an island resort, you’ll need to combine a flight, a short drive, and a boat ride.
Here’s your 2025–2026 step-by-step guide to reaching Aore Island Resort smoothly.
📍 Where is Aore Island Resort?
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Located on Aore Island, just south of Luganville, Espiritu Santo (Vanuatu’s largest island).
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Only 10 minutes by boat from Santo’s main town.
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Easily accessible from Port Vila and Brisbane via domestic and international flights.
✈️ Step 1: Fly to Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON)
The nearest airport to Aore Island Resort is Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON).
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From Port Vila (VLI): Daily domestic flights (≈1 hour) with Air Vanuatu.
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From Brisbane (BNE): Direct flights on select days (~3 hrs 30 mins).
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From Sydney/Auckland: Connect via Port Vila.
💰 Cost: Air Vanuatu domestic fares ≈ 15,000–20,000 VUV (≈USD $120–160 one-way).
🚖 Step 2: Taxi or Transfer to the Boat Jetty
Once you land at Santo-Pekoa Airport:
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Taxi to Luganville Wharf: ~10 minutes.
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Cost: Around 1,500 VUV (≈USD $12).
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🚕 Taxis are readily available at the airport.
🛥️ Step 3: Boat Transfer to Aore Island Resort
From the wharf, a short boat ride will take you across to Aore Island.
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Duration: 10 minutes.
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Cost: ~2,000 VUV (≈USD $15) per person one-way.
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Included?: Many stays at Aore Island Resort include complimentary boat transfers—confirm at booking.
🌊 This quick ride is scenic, with views of Luganville town and Aore’s palm-lined beaches.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit (2025–2026)
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May – October (Dry Season): Best weather, calm seas, popular months.
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November – April (Wet Season): Hotter, humid, occasional cyclones (fewer tourists, lower rates).
💡 Travel Tips for Visiting Aore Island Resort
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Book domestic flights early—seats fill fast, especially during holidays.
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Carry some local currency (VUV) for taxis and extras.
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Coordinate arrival with the resort to ensure smooth boat pickup.
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If arriving late evening, consider overnighting in Luganville before crossing.
✅ Travel Summary Table
| Step | Route | Time | Cost (approx.) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Flight | Port Vila → Santo (SON) | 1 hr | 15,000–20,000 VUV (USD $120–160) | Daily flights by Air Vanuatu |
| 🚖 Taxi | Santo Airport → Luganville Wharf | 10 mins | 1,500 VUV (USD $12) | Taxis available at airport |
| 🛥️ Boat | Wharf → Aore Island Resort | 10 mins | 2,000 VUV (USD $15, often included) | Confirm with resort |
| ⏱️ Total | Port Vila → Resort | ~1.5–2 hrs | ≈18,500–23,500 VUV (USD $145–185) | Excluding international flights |
❓ FAQs: How to Get to Aore Island Resort
1. Which airport is closest to Aore Island Resort?
Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON), just 10 minutes by taxi from the boat wharf.
2. How do I get from Santo Airport to the resort?
Taxi (10 mins, 1,500 VUV) → Boat transfer (10 mins, 2,000 VUV or included).
3. Are boat transfers included in the stay?
Often yes, but confirm with Aore Island Resort when booking.
4. Can I fly directly from Australia to Santo?
Yes, from Brisbane (≈3 hrs 30 mins), but most travelers connect via Port Vila.
5. How much does it cost in total from Port Vila to Aore Island Resort?
About 18,500–23,500 VUV (≈USD $145–185) one-way per person.
6. How long is the boat ride to Aore Island Resort?
Only 10 minutes from Luganville Wharf.
7. What’s the best time to visit?
May–October offers dry, pleasant weather and calm seas.
✅ With this 2025–2026 guide, you can now plan your journey to Aore Island Resort confidently—quick flights, short transfers, and a scenic boat ride away from paradise.