📖 About Luganville

Luganville is Vanuatu's second-largest town and the main settlement on Espiritu Santo, the country's largest island. With approximately 16,000 residents, this small town developed from a massive World War II American military base that hosted over 100,000 troops. The wartime history created world-famous wreck diving sites, including the SS President Coolidge—one of the world's most accessible large wreck dives.

The town retains relaxed Pacific atmosphere despite its military history. Blue holes—stunning freshwater swimming pools—dot the island. Champagne Beach offers white sand perfection. The surrounding island remains largely traditional; Melanesian kastom (custom) culture continues in villages. The agricultural economy produces copra and cocoa. Infrastructure is basic but improving.

Luganville offers visitors world-class wreck diving, pristine natural attractions, authentic Melanesian culture, and the unique legacy of the Pacific War.

🏛️ Top Attractions

💼 Economy & Culture

Luganville's economy combines agriculture, diving tourism, and services. Copra (dried coconut) and cocoa production support the rural economy. Cattle ranching operates on former plantation lands. Diving tourism brings visitors specifically for the Coolidge and other sites. Some cruise ships visit. Government services support provincial administration. The economy remains small and underdeveloped by regional standards. Cyclones periodically cause damage. Subsistence agriculture remains important for many families.

Melanesian culture defines Espiritu Santo beyond Luganville town. Bislama (Melanesian Pidgin) is common language; English and French from colonial history are used. Traditional kastom practices continue in villages—land belongs to clans, ceremonies mark occasions. Christianity blends with traditional beliefs. Kava drinking is central social ritual. Food includes local root crops, coconut, and seafood. The town itself is more modernized while surrounding villages maintain traditional ways. Community and family obligations are paramount in social organization.

📜 History

Espiritu Santo was inhabited by Melanesians for thousands of years before European contact. Spanish explorer Quirós named the island in 1606, believing he'd reached the great southern continent. British and French colonial rivalry led to the New Hebrides Condominium (1906-1980)—unique joint colonial rule.

World War II transformed Santo—the US built massive naval and air base here, headquarters for the Solomon Islands campaign. Over 100,000 troops were stationed. The SS President Coolidge sank in the harbor in 1942 after hitting friendly mines. When Americans left, they dumped equipment at Million Dollar Point rather than give it away. Independence as Vanuatu came in 1980 after brief Santo Rebellion. Today's Luganville preserves its war heritage while developing as tourism destination for divers seeking the remarkable underwater legacy.