Experience Pure Island Paradise At Tamarind Beach Estate, Vanuatu
Only a short three hours from the Shire!
Tamarind Beach Estate, Vanuatu
You awake to the gentle sound of soft waves hitting the shoreline. You pry yourself from your cloud-like bed to wander over to the bi-fold plantation shutters, which pull back to reveal an endless horizon framed by palms, tropical plants, avocado trees and tamarind. It sounds like a cliche too good to be true, but it’s a daily reality at Tamarind Beach Estate, a luxury estate just a short three hour flight from the Sutherland Shire, on the small island of Vanuatu.
Sitting quite literally metres from the white sandy beach (a private section, in fact), this 1980s French-Provincial-style estate features three deluxe waterfront houses that span over five acres of lush tropical land. The main house, Tamarind, sports a symmetrical-like layout, high-pitched roof, designer kitchen and an expansive timber decking that cascades onto a manicured lawn. Six sleep comfortably between the three bedrooms.
The two bungalows, Tula and Toa, each sleep four, with private tropical courtyard showers, but what they all have in common is their coastal-meets-provence design, complete with polished floors, deep decks and effortless but sophisticated style. Near endless dining and seating options are spread across the property, so there’s always somewhere new to relax with a book or cocktail in hand. A completely private and secure property, you truly feel a million miles away from reality.
We know what you’re probably thinking: a trip that involves a flight warrants a whole lot of planning, packing and time. Not this one. Serviced daily and a mere three-hour-flight from Sydney, this is a stay well within reach for families, for friends or even for long weekend jaunts - it’s practically equivalent to a drive down the coast.
We had the pleasure of experiencing Tamarind Beach Estate for ourselves - and we have the low-down on how to make the best of your time at this pristine slice of literal paradise. And take it from us, it’s a three hour flight you’ll want to take time and time again.
Oh - and one last thing.
The family behind Tamarind Beach Estate (who also happen to be Shire born-and-bred) are giving away a four night stay for one lucky winner and their guests. But more on this below!
How to plan your stay at Tamarind Beach Estate
Massage And Spa Treatments
Because is it even a beach-slash-restort holiday without a decent massage on the agenda? Without even having to leave the property, you and your fellow guests can indulge in a massage, facial or body scrub, by a qualified beauty therapist who brings the treatment to you. We recommend booking upon arrival - as you can imagine, this is a popular pick!
The Reef Vanuatu Zoological
Immerse yourself in the local wildlife at The Reef Vanuatu Zoological. The passionate team behind this animal sanctuary rescue injured turtles and release them once they are back to full health - and while they do so, they welcome guests to get up close and personal (in a safe way, of course). It’s a fun experience with plenty of photo ops.
The Reef Vanuatu Zoological
Sunset Horse Riding
Sunset Horse Riding
Take it from us, this is a must. Perfect for beginners and the horse girls among us, this stunning ride caters to all experience levels and allows you to traverse the beach in total majestic style. Our hot tip? When you arrive, request to end your ride with a swim with your horses. The sunset ride is also our pick if you’re not keen on crowds (or sharing) as the cruise ships have well and truly left the port!
The Blue Lagoon
Blue Lagoon
A half-hour drive from Port Vila, you’ll find the sparkling and impossibly-hued waters of Blue Lagoon. A rope swing here, a diving platform there; a few hours spent lazing about is right up there with pure perfection. The public are able to access the Blue Lagoon from 7:00am, and we recommend getting there as early as possible to avoid cruise ship crowds, who tend to arrive by 8:30am.
Snorkeling
The crystal-clear waters directly out the front of Tamarind are home to a vibrant world of marine life. Spend a few hours snorkeling and exploring the beautiful reef on your doorstep.
Fishing
A trip to Vanuatu isn’t complete without a fishing adventure. Ask the locals for the best fishing hotspots and try your luck at reeling in some dinner!
Coconut Tasting
The groundskeepers are more than happy to source and crack fresh coconuts for you and your guests, all you have to do is ask! Watching them climb up the coconut trees is quite the show too! Coconut cocktail anyone?
Kayaking and Paddle Boarding
With a number kayaks and paddle boards available, take in the beauty of Tamarind and its neighbouring beaches from a different perspective. The water is flat and peaceful, so you’ll be gliding with minimal effort.
Distillery Experience
The perfect spot to take a load off after a day of exploring, 83 Islands Distilleries allows you to taste test the tropical flavours of the island. Rum and gin are the specialties here and each is infused with local ingredients, offering a sensory experience you just won’t get here in Australia.
In-house Catering
In-house Catering
Because honestly, why would you ever want to leave the stunning Tamarind Beach Estate? We definitely suggest booking in a couple of nights-worth of the superb in-house catering. Be sure to opt for the Melanesian Feast; you’ll be able to lend a hand and drink Kava. For other, more low-key nights in, you can try the 3-course menu, which includes the likes of ceviche, paw paw salad, fresh fish of the day, lemon risotto, and sweet treats to finish.
Dining Out
Paradise Cove Restaurant
Within walking distance, offering a blend of local ingredients and flavours from Melanesian and Mediterranean cultures.
Banyan Tree Beach Bar
Serves cocktails beachside, as well as seriously delicious woodfired pizza.
3 Pigs Restaurant
About a five minute drive from the estate, serving really good tacos and pizza.
Cafe Vila
Also a five minute drive, ideal for breakfast, lunch, dinner and happy hour.
Au Bon Marche, Port Vila
Scout’s Other Hot Tips
Groceries
Each villa at Tamarind is equipped with it’s own kitchen and everything you could need to cook up a feast. Stock up on groceries at Au Bon Marche, Port Vila's biggest supermarket. For fresh fruit and veg, head to the fruit markets over the grocery stores. The produce is fresher - and far more affordable!
Alcohol
If you’re after drinks, buy Duty Free on your way in at Port Vila airport - it’s far cheaper than in town. However, the selection is not as large as Sydney airport Duty Free, so if you’re after something specific, best to buy even further ahead there.
Money Exchange
Exchange your AUD at Goodies, located across the road from the fruit and veg markets. They offer a far better exchange rate than you’ll find at Port Vila airport.
