Port Vila: Blue Lagoon & Eden on the River Half-Day Swim

Summary

Swim in Port Vila’s blue lagoon then cool off at Eden on the River

You’ll float in Port Vila’s famous Blue Lagoon, then swim beneath rainforest trees at Eden on the River — both with a local guide who knows every shortcut. Feel mineral-cool water on your skin, taste wild ginger by the riverbank, and finish your half-day adventure with easy hotel pickup and drop-off.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if that shade of blue is even real? I did, right up until we pulled up to the Blue Lagoon just outside Port Vila. Our guide, Joseph, grinned as we stepped out — “Go on, jump!” he said. The water was so clear you could see your own toes wiggle, and there was this faint mineral smell, almost like rain on stone. I hesitated before taking the rope swing (not my most graceful moment), but honestly, you just stop caring about looking cool when you’re laughing that hard with strangers.

After an hour of floating and splashing around, we dried off under the trees and drove maybe 20 minutes through little villages — kids waving, someone selling coconuts by the road. Next stop was Eden on the River. It’s tucked away under thick green canopies; you hear birds more than people here. The water in this swimming hole is greener and colder than the lagoon, which kind of wakes you up all over again. Joseph pointed out some wild ginger growing near the edge — he snapped one open for us to smell. Sharp and sweet at once. There was a moment where everyone just went quiet except for the sound of water sliding over rocks.

I didn’t expect duty free shopping to be part of a day trip to Blue Lagoon from Port Vila, but there it was — quick stop before heading back. Not really my thing but my friend found some chocolate for her flight home. We got dropped off right at our hotel door, still smelling like river water and sunscreen. I keep thinking about how cold that first jump felt — weirdly comforting now that I’m back in city noise.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Blue Lagoon and Eden on the River

• Swim at Blue Lagoon for 1 hour
• Explore and swim at Eden on the River
• Enjoy Duty Free Shopping before departure

Top questions

How long is the Blue Lagoon & Eden on the River tour?

This half-day trip lasts around 4 hours including transfers.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip from Port Vila?

Yes, air-conditioned hotel or port pickup and drop-off are included.

Can infants join this tour?

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

How much time do we spend at each swimming spot?

You’ll have about one hour at both Blue Lagoon and Eden on the River.

Is there a guide during this day trip to Blue Lagoon?

Yes, a local guide accompanies you throughout the tour.

Are entry fees included?

Yes, entry fees to both swimming spots are included in your booking.

Is lunch provided during this tour?

No lunch is included; snacks may be available for purchase along the way.

Is duty free shopping part of this tour?

A short duty free shopping stop is included before returning to your hotel or ship.

What’s included

Your half-day includes air-conditioned hotel or port transfers, entry to both Blue Lagoon and Eden on the River swimming holes, time with a knowledgeable local guide who shares stories along the way, plus a brief stop for duty free shopping before heading back to your accommodation.