Sanma Province is one of Vanuatu’s most important travel regions, known for Espiritu Santo, blue holes, white-sand beaches, and some of the clearest waters in the Pacific. Located in the northern part of the archipelago, it offers a mix of island adventure and relaxed tropical scenery.
It’s also where many travelers base themselves when visiting Santo, with Luganville acting as the main hub. From here, you can explore famous blue holes, quiet beaches, and historic World War II sites scattered across the island.
Unlike smaller or more remote provinces, Sanma Province feels both accessible and diverse, with a balance of nature, culture, and coastal beauty. Clear lagoons, inland rivers, and tropical landscapes define the experience, creating that raw, authentic Vanuatu atmosphere.
Planning a trip to Sanma Province? This region combines island landscapes, freshwater blue holes, and some of Vanuatu’s most well-known coastal scenery. Whether you’re heading to Espiritu Santo for a few days or exploring the surrounding islands, these essentials help you plan it right.
Sanma Province is located in northern Vanuatu and includes Espiritu Santo, the country’s largest island, along with smaller islands like Malo and Aore. The region sits within the South Pacific Ocean and is centered around Luganville, the main town and travel hub. Its mix of coastline, inland rivers, and surrounding islands makes it one of the most diverse regions in Vanuatu.
The best time to visit Sanma Province is from May to October, when the weather is drier, sunnier, and more comfortable. This period offers calm conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring blue holes. Temperatures stay warm year-round, but the wet season from November to April brings higher humidity and occasional tropical showers.
Sanma Province has a warm tropical climate with a dry season from May to October and a wetter season from November to April. Expect temperatures to stay consistently warm throughout the year. During the dry season, you’ll get clearer skies, calmer conditions, and better visibility for outdoor and water-based activities.
Most travelers reach Sanma Province via Espiritu Santo’s Pekoa International Airport near Luganville. Domestic flights connect regularly from Port Vila, making it one of the easier regions to access in Vanuatu. From Luganville, transport options include taxis, rental cars, and boat transfers to nearby islands and coastal areas.
Use our interactive map to explore resorts, hotels, and guesthouses across Sanma Province.
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A new Solomon Airlines Espiritu Santo service landed at Luganville’s Santo-Pekoa International Airport on Saturday 4 April 2026,...