Tucked away in the shimmering waters of the South Pacific, Moso Island is a vibrant slice of paradise that seems almost too magical to be real. Talk about fifty shades of blue. Melissa Hoyer gives FCM the luxury run down.
Moso have in Vanuatu
Part of the Vanuatu archipelago, this tiny gem is a first-class place where time slows down, nature flourishes, and the spirit of community fills the air with joy.
We flew from Sydney to Brisbane, had a quick stop, and then in two hours, we were happily in Port Vila. Half an hour later, we were on Moso.
Moso’s coral reefs
Moso is renowned for its seriously breathtaking coral reefs, where kaleidoscopic fish dart through crystal-clear waters. Visitors who come to snorkel or dive here (hello, us!) often describe it as stepping into a living, breathing aquarium. The island is also home to a protected marine sanctuary, where conservation efforts thrive alongside an abundance of sea turtles and other marine creatures.
But what truly sets Moso apart isn’t just its natural beauty—it’s the warmth of its people. The islanders, known for their infectious laughter and generosity, welcome guests as if they’re part of the family. Every visit feels like a celebration, with locals often gathering to share stories, play music, and showcase their traditional dances.
My great travel friend Victoria and I were greeted by Andrew Glad (who I used to know in Sydney from his days in the big wide fashion world) and had a fantastic time with all the other staff, who could never, ever do enough for us. They were always happy to oblige with anything.
Hiking trails in Moso
For those seeking adventure, Moso offers hiking trails that wind through lush forests, leading to panoramic views of the surrounding ocean.
By night, the island transforms into a stargazer’s dream, with skies so clear you can trace the Milky Way as it stretches across the heavens.
Moso Island, located off the northwest coast of Efate in Vanuatu, is primarily inhabited by ni-Vanuatu communities, with approximately 240 residents, mainly in Tassiriki village. The island is part of Shefa Province and is under the jurisdiction of the Vanuatu government.
In terms of private enterprises, The Moso Vanuatu is a luxury boutique resort on the island. The resort is owned by Joel Slattery and Antoun Jabbour, who are from Sydney, Australia. They first visited Moso Island around 2015 and subsequently established the resort.
And I have to add—right now—the food is just beautiful. Always fresh!
The Farea at Watermark in Vanuatu
Additionally, The Farea@Watermark on Moso is a vacation home on the island. The land where Moso Landing is situated is owned by Kenneth, a local landowner.
Overall, while the island is predominantly under customary ownership by the indigenous ni-Vanuatu people, there are specific areas where private enterprises operate, often in partnership or agreement with local landowners.
Sustainable tourism in Vanuatu
What makes Moso even more enchanting is its commitment to sustainable tourism. Every suite is designed with sustainability in mind (yay!), and the accommodations are eco-friendly bungalows—all of which are sensational, by the way. Both Victoria’s and my suites had a gorgeous pool that blended harmoniously with the landscape.
Visitors are encouraged to respect the environment, ensuring the island remains pristine for generations to come.
We absolutely loved going just a little bit further up the island and visiting the young schoolkids, who happily sang us a few beautiful songs. You know the kind of exquisite, angelic voices that bring tears to your eyes and make you go weak at the knees? Well, that was them!
Whether you come for the tranquil beaches, the vibrant coral reefs, or the infectious joy of its people, Moso is a destination that will capture your heart. It’s a place where the simple pleasures of life—warm smiles, fresh coconuts, and ocean breezes—remind you of what true happiness feels like.
In Moso, every moment feels like a celebration of life, making it a destination you’ll never forget. So much so that some larger groups come and take over the entire island to celebrate either a monumental birthday or even a wedding or engagement.
Moso Island, located off the northwest coast of Efate in Vanuatu, is a hidden gem known for its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and rich marine life. Unlike some of Vanuatu’s more developed islands, Moso remains relatively untouched, offering a tranquil escape for travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path destination.
The Buzz
- Stunning Natural Beauty: Moso Island is surrounded by crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a paradise for snorkelling, diving, and underwater exploration. The island’s beaches are often secluded, with white sand and scenic views, ideal for relaxation and nature-based activities.
- Rich Biodiversity: The island is part of the Nguna-Pele Marine Protected Area, one of the oldest community-run marine protected zones in Vanuatu. This ensures that the waters around Moso are home to an array of marine life, including colourful fish, turtles, and diverse coral species, which thrive due to conservation efforts and minimal human impact.
- Authentic Island Culture: Visiting Moso offers a chance to experience the traditional culture of the ni-Vanuatu people. The local community, though small, is welcoming and preserves their customs, which visitors can observe and engage with through village tours, local crafts, and traditional performances.
- Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Tourism: Much of Moso Island’s tourism infrastructure is focused on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. Accommodation and tours aim to minimise their environmental footprint, allowing visitors to experience the island’s natural beauty responsibly.
- Ideal for Diving and Snorkelling Enthusiasts: Moso’s surrounding waters are renowned for diving spots like “The Cathedral” and “The Fish Market”. Clear visibility and abundant marine life make it a top choice for divers, while shallower reefs offer excellent snorkelling experiences for beginners and families.
- Close Proximity to Port Vila: Located near Efate, Moso is accessible by a short boat ride from Port Vila, the capital of Vanuatu. This allows visitors to enjoy the island’s serenity without sacrificing convenience, making it a practical destination for day trips or extended stays.
- Environmental Conservation Efforts: The Nguna-Pele Marine Protected Area, which includes Moso, is maintained by local communities who work to protect marine ecosystems. This dedication to conservation enhances the island’s natural appeal while offering visitors the chance to support community-led environmental initiatives.
Moso Island is ideal for eco-conscious travellers, nature lovers, and those seeking a peaceful escape. Its focus on sustainable tourism, combined with its natural and cultural richness, makes it one of Vanuatu’s special destinations.
When we had to leave, I had a pit in my stomach, and my mind just kept saying, I wanna be here a few more days. I wanna be here a few more days. But alas, it wasn’t to be.
I seriously loved the relaxed vibe of the staff, and even better—you never ever feel the need to get seriously dressed up—which, for this girl, is the closest thing to heaven!
The verdict on Moso
I would thoroughly recommend Moso. It’s a beautiful way to breathe deeply, eat amazing food, swim in exquisite waters, and experience extraordinary sea life.
Eat, pray, love. Eat, laugh, repeat. Then start all over again. Yup. A heavenly experience indeed.
Visit www.moso.com.au and make sure you meet Andrew, Joel, and Anton—three dynamic, relaxed, and brilliant hosts who just want their guests to have a simply happy time.
The Hoyer summary: If you’re after a calm, understated, and relaxed holiday without all the bells and whistles, this six-star resort is exactly what you need.
I’ll be back in a flash—and I’d recommend it to anyone..
