Kwakea
Kwakea is a small islet off the southeastern coast of Vanua Lava in the Banks Islands of northern Vanuatu, sitting at the edge of one of the most remote and least visited corners of the Pacific. Until recently it operated as a small private island retreat, accessible only by charter flight or boat. A domestic airline collapse made access impossible and the island has since been sold to a new investor committed to sustainable, environmentally conscious development, with a resort and private runway currently under construction.
Kwakea's story is not finished yet. It is, in fact, just beginning again. Watch this space.
Essential Travel Information: Kwakea
Kwakea is a private island destination in active development. Here is what is known about the island, its location, and what to expect when it reopens to guests.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Quick Facts
- Island Size
- Island size: Small islet, exact area not publicly recorded
- Language
- Bislama, English, Mota (local)
- Currency
- Vanuatu Vatu (VUV)
- Time Zone
- UTC +11
- Electricity
- 230V, Type I (Australian style plugs)
- Activities
- Snorkeling, diving, and nature hikes.
- Average Stay
- To be confirmed on reopening
- Internet
- Limited
Where is Kwakea?
Kwakea is a small islet east of Vanua Lava in the Banks Islands of northern Vanuatu. It has a permanent population of just 8 people. The nearest settlement of any size is Sola, the provincial capital of TORBA Province, on Vanua Lava itself.
Best Time to Visit
May to October is the drier season, with more settled conditions for travel and outdoor activities. The Banks Islands receive over 4,000 mm of rainfall annually, so even the dry season brings regular showers. November to April is hotter and wetter, with cyclone risk December to March.
Climate
Kwakea has a humid tropical climate year-round, between 24 and 30°C with very high rainfall. Dense vegetation covers much of the island. Coastal conditions are more manageable than the interior. The drier months bring the clearest skies and calmest seas.
How to Get There
Kwakea is currently not open to guests. A runway is under construction on the island and private charter flights will connect guests directly once complete. The island is also reachable by small boat from Vanua Lava. Updates will follow as the development progresses.
