MARINE RESERVE

A coral islet bordered by white sand and seagrass beds, ideal for observing young green turtles.

Useful information

Located 10 minutes of navigation from Nouméa (5 km).

Floristic wealth

Several types of vegetation follow one another. On the edge of the islet we observe herbaceous coastal formations, then coastal thickets with sailor wood and finally in the center a mosaic of dry forest. Characteristic species include silver bush, seaside fig, yellowwood and gray oak. The flat is covered with a large remarkable herbarium.

Faunal wealth

The islet is home to Pacific shearwaters which nest in burrows on each point of the islet during their breeding season which lasts from November to April. Other birds can be observed all year round: the elk, the osprey, the kingfisher, the silver gull, the sapsucker, the red-bellied whistler, the banded rail and the endemic spectacle. Fish exhibit rich diversity and indicate healthy reefs. The environment constitutes an important area for the dugong. The islet is also known to be a breeding site for “big head” turtles. The seagrass beds support a population of juvenile green turtles all year round.

Activities possible on site:
- snorkeling (PMT)
- idleness
- kitesurfing / windsurfing
- BBQ possibility (provide your logs or charcoal)
 
Rich and varied seabed to discover, masks and snorkels included!

Plan your picnic

Time of transport:

15 mins (depending on weather conditions).

Boarding location:

Launch of the Orphanage (next to the pétanque court)

Type of boat provided: Panga “Néreïs” (7m) motorized with 115hp SUZUKI 4-stroke.
6 seats available.
Sheltered and covered boat.

mise à l'eau de la Baie de l'Orphelinat
Nouméa, New Caledonia