New Caledonia: Amedee Lighthouse Day Trip & Buffet Lunch

Summary

Amedee island day trip with glass bottom boat lunch and lighthouse climb

You’ll ride out to Amedee Island by boat, peer through a glass bottom at wild coral gardens, climb all 247 steps of the old lighthouse for wild views, then eat your fill at a local buffet with drinks included. There’s music and dancing too—plus time to swim or just do nothing under palm trees. It’s one of those days you remember because it feels real.

What’s the experience like?

"You’ll want to count the steps or you’ll lose track," our guide grinned as we squinted up at the Amedee Lighthouse. I’d barely finished my welcome punch—sweet, but not too strong—when the idea of 247 steps felt both like a dare and a joke. The air was thick with salt and sunscreen, and someone’s kid was already running toward the water before we’d even settled our bags. That first view of New Caledonia’s lagoon from the top? I mean, I tried to take a photo but it just didn’t work. You have to see it yourself.

The glass bottom boat tour was next—half an hour drifting over coral so bright it almost looked fake. Our captain pointed out a turtle gliding by, and for a second everyone went quiet except for the slap of water against the hull. I remember pressing my forehead to the glass, trying to spot every fish before they darted away. It’s funny how fast time goes when you’re staring at something so alive under your feet.

Lunch was loud in that good way—clinking plates, laughter, someone humming along with the music. There was this coconut salad that surprised me (I never thought I’d like coconut anything), plus cold beer and wine if you wanted it. The dancers came out after dessert; their skirts moved faster than my camera could keep up. Li laughed when I tried to say “merci” in French—probably butchered it, but she just smiled wider.

I still think about that breeze at the top of the lighthouse, how lightheaded I felt—not just from the climb. If you’ve got three days in New Caledonia, this day trip is worth squeezing in. The sunburn on my nose faded quick but that blue water kind of sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Amedee Island daytrip activities

• Transfer from hotel to boat
• 45-minute yacht ride to Amedee Island
• 30-minute glass bottom boat tour
• Buffet lunch with drinks included
• Watch Pacific dance show
• Climb 247 lighthouse steps
• Sunbathe, snorkel, and swim

Top questions

How long does it take to get from Noumea to Amedee Island?

The boat ride from Noumea to Amedee Island takes about 45 minutes each way.

Is lunch included on the Amedee Lighthouse day trip?

Yes, an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch featuring local produce is included, along with drinks like beer, wine, juice, and punch.

Can I climb the lighthouse on this tour?

Yes, you can climb all 247 steps of Amedee Lighthouse during your visit.

Are hotel transfers provided for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Is there snorkeling or swimming time on Amedee Island?

You’ll have plenty of time for sunbathing, snorkeling, and swimming in the lagoon during your stay on Amedee Island.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, infants and small children are welcome; prams or strollers can be used and specialized infant seats are available.

Is Amedee Island wheelchair accessible?

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible on this tour.

What activities are included besides climbing the lighthouse?

The tour includes a glass bottom boat excursion, buffet lunch with drinks, Pacific dance show, plus beach time for swimming or relaxing.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup in Noumea followed by a 45-minute boat transfer to Amedee Island where you’ll join a guided glass bottom boat tour over coral reefs before enjoying an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch with house punch, beer, wine or juice. After lunch there’s coffee or tea while watching a Pacific dance show—and plenty of free time for climbing the lighthouse or swimming before heading back.