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Eratap Beach and Reef

4.9
·136 reviews·Port Vila, Efate Island, Vanuatu

Eratap Beach and Reef offers a 5-star island escape with unparalleled snorkeling, complimentary boat trips, and exquisite dining in a tranquil paradis...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Year-round

Warm weather and water

CrowdLow
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Eratap Beach & Reef - Image 1

Eratap Beach and Reef

Best Time

Year-round

Warm weather and water

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Eratap Beach and Reef offers a 5-star island escape with unparalleled snorkeling, complimentary boat trips, and exquisite dining in a tranquil paradise.

4.9
(136 reviews)

"Eratap is a 5-star experience - the villas are beautiful, well equipped, and in an exceptional location!"

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TIP

🐠 Snorkel Gear Provided

The resort provides snorkeling gear, so no need to pack your own!

🚤 Free Boat Trips Daily

Utilize the complimentary long boats for exploring nearby reefs and islands.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shoreline Snorkeling Paradise

Shoreline Snorkeling Paradise

Directly offshore from the resort

Dive into a vibrant underwater world with abundant marine life and stunning coral reefs just meters from the beach.

Reddit
Complimentary Boat Adventures

Complimentary Boat Adventures

Resort-provided long boats

Explore nearby islands and reefs with free snorkeling and fishing excursions via resort long boats.

Reddit
Idyllic Island Setting

Idyllic Island Setting

Eratap Island

Relax in a tranquil, picturesque paradise with beautiful villas and well-maintained grounds.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Reef Life

Eratap Beach and Reef offers incredible snorkeling right off the shore. Many visitors rave about the abundant marine life and vibrant coral. Plan to spend ample time exploring the underwater world, as it's a major highlight for most guests. Reddit

Complimentary Boat Excursions

Take advantage of the free long boat trips offered by Eratap for snorkeling and fishing around nearby islands. This is a standout service that many guests find exceptional and a great way to explore beyond the immediate reef. Reddit

Best Times

When
Year-round
Why
Warm weather and water
Crowd
Low
When
Independence Day (July 30)
Why
Local celebrations
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

17.12.24-A 7.3 magnitude earthquake in Vanuatu has just hit us. Its destroyed parts of our resort triggering landslides and causing extensive damage to the capital, Port Vila. All Australians should register via smart traveller DFat. Day 3 still No comercial flights. Heres our story so far. #portvila #vanuatu #earthquake #vanuatuearthquake #melanesia #landslide #pacificislands #pacific #pacificoce...
@massas_ourworld
135.2K likes • 1.6M views

🐠 Snorkel Gear Provided

The resort provides snorkeling gear, so no need to pack your own! Reddit

🚤 Free Boat Trips Daily

Utilize the complimentary long boats for exploring nearby reefs and islands. Reddit

H E A R T H E W A V E S We set out for the reef visit and snorkeling, undeterred by the patchy sea. The adventure that followed was nothing short of marvellous — nature’s magic unfolding beneath the waves. Series 1 Diani Beach is located on the Indian Ocean. It is a popular beach resort area on the south coast of Kenya, approximately 30 kilometers south of Mombasa. #insta #onex #photography...
catch_bd
425 likes • 559 views
Once used as a shooting range by colonial forces, today it’s a protected marine park full of rare fish, coral species, reef sharks, and turtles. Here's what you need to know. • Location: Just 1 km off the coast of Nilaveli Beach, Trincomalee • Access: Short boat ride (10–15 mins); can be booked locally • Entry Fee: Charged at the pier (foreigners & locals priced differently) • Activities: Snork...
sl.roaming
2.8K likes • 73.4K views

🍹 Delicious Welcome Drink

Enjoy a personalized welcome with a refreshing drink upon arrival. Reddit

🚲 Bike Rides to Village

Take bikes out for a spin and wave to the friendly local kids. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🐠 Snorkel Gear Provided

The resort provides snorkeling gear, so no need to pack your own! Reddit

🚤 Free Boat Trips Daily

Utilize the complimentary long boats for exploring nearby reefs and islands. Reddit

🍹 Delicious Welcome Drink

Enjoy a personalized welcome with a refreshing drink upon arrival. Reddit

🚲 Bike Rides to Village

Take bikes out for a spin and wave to the friendly local kids. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(136 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Eratap Beach and Resort is overwhelmingly praised for its exceptional 5-star experience, particularly its stunning reef for snorkeling and the complimentary boat excursions. Guests consistently highlight the delicious food, friendly staff, and beautiful villas as major draws. While most reviews are glowing, some minor points about off-season surfing conditions have been noted.

"Earlier this week I stayed at Eratap for 3 nights, before then heading off to another resort on the island…. I completely regret booking the second resort, we should have stayed at Eratap!

I’ve traveled to Fiji quite a bit over the years, staying at 4 and 5 star resorts. Eratap is a 5 star experience - the villas are beautiful, well equipped, well maintained and in an exceptional location!

The food was great - a fair bit of effort had gone into the menu planning and everything is well executed.

If you like to go snorkelling, this is the place. You only need to venture offshore around 30 metres before being met with beautiful coral reef and plenty of marine life.

What really impressed me about my stay was having the two long boats available (free of charge) to take us snorkelling and fishing around the nearby islands. I’m stunned that Eratap offers this, it’s such a fantastic service to have!

Tony who owns and runs the resort is fantastic - aside from being extremely welcoming, we was really helpful in recommending various things for us to do during our stay.

Thanks very much Tony for such a fantastic experience. We will certainly be returning for another stay in the future (and for longer than 3 nights!).

Kirk and Hanna"

rexwatto88

"My wife and I have just returned from our five night stay in paradise, aka Eratap. The trip was everything we expected and wanted. A relaxing stay without too many planned excursions. We had a sailing and snorkelling cruise pre-planned. There was plenty to do each day with the resort providing a daily activity, of which, we availed ourselves of three. The staff are extremely hospitable. Tony made us feel at home immediately and Pascall was very helpful. The accommodation, grounds, facilities and amenities are excellent. The highlight for us was the snorkelling right in front of our villa. We were also fortunate to be in Vanuatu on their 45th Independence day. The local colours, celebrations and national pride was wonderful to witness. The warm weather, warm water and friendly people was a great antidote to the Australian winter. 🙂"

Geoff Stein

"Just stayed a week at Eratap Beach resort. This is the place to stay on the mainland!! We stayed in a resort closer to Port Villa for a few nights prior, and that resort does not compare!!
At Eratap, you're greeted by the most friendliest bus driver who picks you up (complimentary), he takes you there comfortably. You're then greeted with the most delicious welcome drink and a personalised presentation/tour of the resort. The staff are all super friendly and really take care of you. The rooms are one of the most cleanest and well presented rooms we've ever stayed in. The food is divine!!! So fresh and the most amazing flavours and combinations. We didn't want to eat elsewhere once we arrived and there was always a table ready for us at any time. We were a table of 5.
We used all the facilities available. We took the boats out to the islands and snorkelled all the different reefs each day. My fav was Castaway Island reef and the tip of their main reef out front. I have never seen so many clown fish and different kinds of fish. We used the water sports activities aswell, the kids had a great time each arvo. We didn't get much surfing in, off season and the swell wasn't great. The only day the swell was up, the wind was strong. We took the bikes out for a small ride to one of the points, the local kids all waved as we went past.
We will definitely be back with and without the kids!!"

Millie Bee

What People Like

Incredible snorkeling
Free boat trips
Delicious food

What People Dislike

Variable surf conditions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Eratap Beach and Reef is located on Eratap Island, a short distance from Port Vila. The resort offers a complimentary bus transfer from the airport or your accommodation in Port Vila, making your arrival smooth and comfortable. Reddit

Yes, Eratap Beach and Reef provides a complimentary bus transfer service from the airport to the resort, ensuring a hassle-free start to your vacation. Reddit

The transfer from Port Vila to Eratap Beach and Reef is quite short, allowing you to start enjoying your island getaway without a long journey. Reddit

While the complimentary transfer is highly recommended for convenience, you can arrange private transport if preferred. However, the resort's service is often highlighted as a positive aspect. Reddit

If you are already in Vanuatu, contacting the resort directly to arrange your transfer from your current location or the nearest point to Eratap Island is the most efficient method. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Eratap Beach and Reef is primarily a resort, so entry is typically for guests. If you are looking to visit the reef for snorkeling without staying at the resort, it's best to inquire directly with the resort about day visitor options or boat tour availability. Reddit

As a resort, Eratap Beach and Reef operates around the clock for its guests. For day visitors or specific activities, it's advisable to check with the resort for their operational hours. Reddit

Snorkeling directly from the resort's beach is generally included for guests. If you are taking a boat trip to a specific reef location, there might be associated costs depending on the tour. Reddit

Bookings can typically be made directly through the Eratap Beach and Reef resort website or via reputable online travel agencies. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons. Reddit

The beach is part of the resort's private property, so access is generally reserved for guests. Day passes or specific activity bookings might be available upon inquiry. Reddit

🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience

The reef directly offshore from the resort is a major highlight, teeming with clownfish and various marine species. Guests also rave about the snorkeling at Castaway Island reef and the tip of the main reef. Reddit

Yes, Eratap offers a range of activities suitable for families, including kayaking, playing soccer in the village, and water sports. The resort aims for a balance of relaxation and adventure. Reddit

Guests can enjoy various water sports, including kayaking and paddleboarding. While surfing is mentioned, it's noted as being off-season with variable swell conditions. Reddit

Absolutely! The resort offers complimentary long boat trips that include fishing excursions around the nearby islands, providing a great opportunity to catch some local fish. Reddit

Accommodation at Eratap consists of beautiful, well-equipped, and well-maintained villas, offering a 5-star experience with exceptional locations. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The food at Eratap is consistently praised as divine, with fresh ingredients, amazing flavors, and well-executed dishes. Many guests found the food to be a daily highlight and didn't want to eat elsewhere. Reddit

While specific prices aren't listed, reviews suggest a high-quality dining experience that is worth it. The effort put into menu planning and execution indicates a premium offering. Reddit

The resort focuses on fresh ingredients and diverse flavors, suggesting they can likely accommodate dietary preferences. It's recommended to inform the resort of any specific needs in advance. Reddit

Eratap is primarily a resort, and dining is usually for guests. If you're interested in experiencing their cuisine, it's best to inquire about day packages or if they offer reservations for non-guests. Reddit

Expect a focus on fresh, local ingredients with creative flavor combinations. The menu planning is noted for its effort and execution, promising a delightful culinary experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning underwater shots while snorkeling, the picturesque villas and grounds, and the vibrant sunsets over the ocean. The natural beauty of the island and its marine life offers endless photographic potential. Reddit

Yes, the abundance of fish and coral just offshore makes it relatively easy to photograph marine life while snorkeling. Bringing an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case is highly recommended. Reddit

The beaches offer beautiful vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset. Exploring the different reef spots via the resort boats also provides unique photographic angles of the underwater world. Reddit

A waterproof camera or a good quality smartphone with a waterproof case is ideal for capturing the underwater scenes. For landscape shots, a standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens will suffice. Reddit

Regulations regarding drone usage can vary. It's best to check with the resort and local authorities in Vanuatu regarding drone operation policies before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Eratap Beach and Resort is a fantastic choice for families looking for a blend of relaxation and engaging activities. The easy access to snorkeling right off the beach means kids can safely explore the underwater world with minimal fuss. The resort also offers activities like kayaking and playing soccer in Eratap village, providing fun experiences for children of all ages. Reddit

The complimentary boat trips are a great way to keep kids entertained and introduce them to new environments. The friendly and helpful staff create a welcoming atmosphere for families, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and looked after. The well-maintained villas offer comfortable accommodation for families, providing a home away from home in a beautiful setting. Reddit

💍 Couples Seeking Romance

For couples seeking a romantic getaway, Eratap Beach and Resort offers an idyllic and tranquil escape. The private villas provide a secluded and luxurious base, perfect for unwinding together. The stunning natural beauty of the island, combined with the exceptional service, creates an intimate and memorable experience. Reddit

Enjoy snorkeling hand-in-hand in the crystal-clear waters, take a private boat trip to a secluded spot, or simply relax on the beach and watch the sunset. The resort's focus on quality dining ensures romantic meals with delicious food and beautiful settings. Eratap provides the perfect backdrop for couples to reconnect and create lasting memories. Reddit

🐠 Adventure & Water Sports Enthusiasts

Eratap Beach and Reef is a haven for those who love the water. The abundant marine life and accessible reefs make it a prime destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The complimentary long boat excursions offer fantastic opportunities for exploring diverse underwater landscapes and engaging in fishing adventures. Reddit

Beyond snorkeling, guests can enjoy kayaking and other water sports. While surfing conditions can be variable, the overall aquatic environment provides ample opportunities for adventure. The resort's location and the proactive offering of boat trips cater directly to travelers seeking an active and water-centric vacation. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Eratap Reef Experience

The Eratap Beach and Reef is renowned for its exceptional snorkeling opportunities, accessible directly from the resort's shoreline. Visitors consistently highlight the vibrant coral gardens and the sheer abundance of marine life, including countless clownfish and a diverse array of tropical fish. The ease of access means you can snorkel whenever the mood strikes, making it a truly immersive experience. Many guests consider this the highlight of their stay, often spending hours exploring the underwater ecosystem. Reddit

Beyond the immediate reef, the resort offers complimentary long boat excursions to explore further afield. These trips provide access to different reef systems around the nearby islands, expanding the snorkeling adventure. Whether you're a seasoned snorkeler or a beginner, the clear, warm waters and the rich biodiversity make Eratap a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the ocean. The resort's commitment to providing these boat trips free of charge is a significant draw for visitors seeking to maximize their exploration. Reddit

Pro Tip: While the resort provides snorkeling gear, consider bringing your own mask if you have a specific fit preference for maximum comfort during extended snorkeling sessions. Also, an underwater camera or a waterproof phone case is highly recommended to capture the incredible sights you'll encounter beneath the waves. Reddit

Resort Amenities and Service

Eratap Beach and Resort is consistently lauded for its 5-star experience, offering beautiful, well-equipped, and meticulously maintained villas. The location is described as exceptional, providing a tranquil and idyllic setting for relaxation and adventure. The resort's grounds are kept in pristine condition, contributing to the overall sense of paradise. Reddit

The service at Eratap is a standout feature, with staff described as extremely hospitable, friendly, professional, and helpful. Guests frequently mention feeling welcomed and well taken care of throughout their stay. The owner, Tony, is often singled out for his welcoming nature and helpful recommendations, making guests feel right at home. This high level of personal service significantly enhances the guest experience. Reddit

Beyond the accommodation and service, the resort offers a range of amenities and activities. The complimentary long boat trips for snorkeling and fishing are a significant perk. Guests also enjoy water sports, bike rides, and cultural experiences like fire shows and village visits. The resort aims to provide a perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, catering to diverse guest preferences. Reddit

Culinary Delights at Eratap

The dining experience at Eratap Beach and Resort is a consistent highlight for visitors. The food is described as divine, with a strong emphasis on fresh ingredients and creative flavor combinations. Guests frequently mention that the food was a daily highlight and that they looked forward to every meal. The effort put into menu planning and the execution of each dish are clearly evident. Reddit

Reviewers express that there was always a table ready for them, indicating efficient service even for larger groups. The quality and taste of the meals contribute significantly to the overall 5-star experience that Eratap aims to provide. Whether it's breakfast, lunch, or dinner, the culinary offerings are designed to impress and satisfy. Reddit

While specific dietary options aren't detailed, the focus on fresh, well-prepared food suggests a capacity to cater to various preferences. It's always a good idea to communicate any dietary needs to the resort in advance to ensure they can accommodate you. The overall dining experience is considered a major draw and a key reason why many guests plan to return. Reddit

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