Louniel beach
Escape to the exotic Louniel Beach, a rare gem adorned with glistening black sand - a unique spectacle courtesy of the active Yasur volcano. This volcanic marvel gifts the beach with its distinctive ebony grains, a testament to nature's alchemy. Currently, Yasur rests in a serene, stable state, ensuring that the resort is a haven of safety for all visitors. While Louniel Beach beckons with its unusual beauty, it is particularly renowned for its array of outdoor activities, offering a vibrant alternative to the typical beach holiday. Come, let Louniel Beach's enchanting shores captivate your spirit of adventure.
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Beach description
Discover the enchanting Louniel Beach, a surfer's haven nestled on the northern coast of Tanna Island's northeastern region, within the quaint village of Louniel. This unique black sand beach evokes the dramatic shores of New Zealand's North Island, particularly the iconic Piha and Muriwai. The ocean's waters may appear dark, yet this is merely an optical illusion caused by the black sand beneath; the water is, in reality, crystal clear. Louniel Beach is fringed by lush coconut palm plantations and an array of verdant trees. Its tropical setting ensures the sea temperature remains delightfully warmer than the surfing waters off Australia's coast. While the beach's surface is not uniformly flat, the gentle slope at its edge provides easy access for swimming close to shore. The black sand, fine as powder with a delicate crumbly texture, may occasionally give way underfoot. Striking underwater volcanic rocks, protruding above the surface, segment the beach into distinct areas adorned with rippling patterns. A leisurely stroll from one end of the beach to the other takes approximately one hour.
Embark on a scenic journey to this coastal paradise by taking the crossroad from the Whitegrass plains to the Middlebush junction. From there, the path to Fetukai descends gracefully towards the beach. The entire route is framed by breathtaking vistas of expansive tropical trees and towering ferns amidst the vibrant tropical forest. As you approach the coast, the plains afford a spectacular view of the distinctive Louniel Beach, set against the smoky backdrop of the active Yasur volcano, nestled among the lush green hills.
While Louniel Beach's raw beauty is undeniable, it is important to note that the beach may not be ideal for children. The characteristic high waves and frequent winds of Tanna Island are a testament to the untamed nature of this destination.
When is the best time to go?
The best time to visit Vanuatu for a beach vacation is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. This period offers the most conducive weather conditions for enjoying the archipelago's stunning beaches and outdoor activities.
- April to June: These months mark the transition from the wet to the dry season. The weather is generally pleasant, with less humidity and fewer tourists, making it an ideal time for those seeking tranquility on their beach vacation.
- July to September: This is the peak of the dry season and the most popular time for tourists. The weather is sunny and dry, perfect for sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving. However, it's also the busiest period, so booking accommodations in advance is recommended.
- October: As the dry season comes to an end, the weather remains warm and enjoyable, with the added benefit of fewer crowds. This is a great time for visitors looking for a more intimate experience with nature and local culture.
Regardless of the specific month, the dry season in Vanuatu offers a delightful beach vacation with its clear skies, comfortable temperatures, and minimal rainfall, ensuring a memorable tropical getaway.
Video: Beach Louniel
Infrastructure
Tourism in Tanna is still developing, so there are no sun loungers or parasols on the beach. However, the island boasts more hotels and pensions than other islands in Vanuatu. One of the most popular accommodations is the White Grass Ocean Resort & Spa, featuring its own swimming pool and restaurant. The resort offers sightseeing trips to the Yasur volcano and other Tanna beaches.
The waterfall, known as Lounel, is within walking distance of the beach and enjoys significant popularity on the island of Tanna.
Unlike the rest of Vanuatu, the road to Lounel Beach, much like the rest of the island, is not in the best condition.
The most famous attraction on the island of Tanna is the unpredictable and active Yasur Volcano, which has a diameter of 360 meters. Currently, it is not spewing lava, and tours for tourists are conducted in close proximity. Inside the crater, the volcano churns with lava, and at night, it glows like a fiery beacon.
Weather in Louniel
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The black sand of Lounel Beach absorbs the sun's rays, due to which the air temperature is distorted, which becomes the main cause of sunburn. The sand on the beach is always hot.
Surfing is the best sport on Lounel Beach. High waves, strong winds and warm water are ideal components for riding on the crests of waves. On the beach you can swim and swim, but sailing too far from the coast is dangerous.
Tourists often come to Lounel Beach for a few days, after which they continue to travel to Vanuatu, this part of the world is unique, because it has gathered white and black beaches, calm bays and noisy surfs with waves in its small territory.