Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène
New Caledonia
In short: Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène is a 520 km including optional Ouaieme extension scenic road trip in New Caledonia, typically driven over 5 days, best in April-November. Highlights: Noumea, La Foa and Sarremea, Houailou.
A security-checked five-day progression from Noumea through La Foa and Sarremea, across to Houailou, then north through Poindimie and Touho to Hienghene. The Ouaieme vehicle ferry is an optional extension beyond Hienghene.
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Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1Noumea to La Foa and Sarremea
La Foa Marguerite Footbridge · Parc des Grandes Fougeres · Chez Mamie Annette
Day 2Sarremea / La Foa to Houailou across Grande Terre
Cross-island drive to Houailou · Chute de Ba · Table d'hote chez Christelle
Day 3Houailou to Poindimie
Poindimie lagoon · Barringtonia Restaurant at Hotel Tieti
Day 4Poindimie to Hienghene via Touho
Linderalique Cliffs and La Poule viewpoint · La Poule lagoon outing · Koulnoue Village Restaurant
Day 5Hienghene, with optional Ouaieme Ferry extension
Ouaieme Ferry extension · Koulnoue Village Restaurant
Stops along the route
Things to Do
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Where to Eat
Nearby and similar drives
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène drive?
The Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène covers 520 km including optional Ouaieme extension from start to finish.
How long does the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène take to drive?
Most travellers spend 5 days on the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène, depending on stops and pace.
When is the best time to drive the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène?
The recommended season for the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène is April-November.
Where does the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène start and end?
The Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène runs from Noumea to Ouaieme Ferry.
What are the main stops on the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène?
The Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène passes through Noumea, La Foa and Sarremea, Houailou.
How difficult is the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène to drive?
The Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène is rated moderate and is best handled with any vehicle.
Can I drive the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène in a regular car?
Yes — the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène is paved end-to-end and a regular car is fine in normal conditions.
How many fuel stops are needed on the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène?
Plan around 0 refuels (or about 1 EV charges) along the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène, based on its 520 km including optional Ouaieme extension length.
Is the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène safe to drive?
Exercise a high degree of caution because civil disorder, roadblocks, curfews and service disruption can recur. Check Smartraveller (https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/pacific/new-caledonia), FCDO (https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/new-caledonia/travel-advice-safety-and-security), local authorities and each accommodation before every leg; avoid demonstrations and never attempt a roadblock. Travel insurance is mandatory. Confirm fuel, food and medical availability, carry cash/supplies, seek customary permission and know tsunami routes.
What scenic tier is the Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène?
The Grande Terre East Coast and Hienghène is a iconic drive — Iconic road trips that anchor a region's reputation — postcard scenery, headline highways, and the routes most travellers want to drive.