Ouvea, New Caledonia

Travel to New Caledonia if you're looking for a tropical paradise with a welcoming atmosphere and a touch of European flair. This multi-island French territory off Australia's northeastern coast is home to friendly locals, beautiful beaches, and gourmet cuisine that includes both classic French dishes and regional specialties. The island's main attraction, however, is its UNESCO World Heritage-listed lagoons. The six marine clusters that make up this protected site are surrounded by the world's second-longest barrier reef and offer excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities, including underwater trails, caves, and shipwrecks.

Beautiful beaches are one of New Caledonia's main draws, and Ouvea stretches along a lovely stretch of coastline. However, the area also has breathtaking landscapes such as waterfalls, rainforests, and mountain ranges. Renting a bike and riding along the beautiful bays is one of the best ways to explore the island. The thatched huts along the beach are popular lodging options, and the prices are reasonable. The New Caledonia island group is home to the world's largest lagoon and second-largest coral reef, and most visitors begin their journey at Tontouta International Airport, located just north of Noumea.