Oure Lodge Beach Resort

Most of the staff are welcoming and friendly, though pretty laid back. Things booked through reception can get lost, and the next staff member may growl at you even though it isn't your fault. They don't volunteer information, so ask what to bring and get a map for the Natural Pool trip. Even the resort kayaks are free, but you may not find that out unless you ask. The activities are worth doing, especially the Natural Pool. The location is the big draw. Snorkel over the corals, look for turtles, kayak in the bay or just relax on the beach. Rooms are comfortable and reasonably clean, though not spotless, and the decor is a bit tired. I'd choose the cheapest room since they're all so close to the beach. Try to eat elsewhere if you can. I've had two dinners here, and the food was average, nowhere near as good as they make out, while priced like a top restaurant. The nearby gite restaurant is an easy walk, and Nautilus is on the next beach over. They might not be better, but they'll be cheaper. You could spend your whole New Caledonia trip on the Isle of Pines and feel you hadn't missed anything, but watch the prices and tourist traps. Not everything is worth what you pay.

We spent four nights here with our three teenage kids and all wished we'd booked longer. The beach is stunning, with a reef about 20m offshore where we saw more interesting fish and other sea life than on some of our dives in NC. You can kayak around the sheltered bay or paddle to adventure island and have the whole island to yourself. The restaurant was outstanding, though expensive, even if not by NC standards. It used French techniques in a relaxed fine dining setting, and the service was lovely. There's a kids' menu and cheaper food at the beach-side snack bar. The bungalows are lovely too, with beautiful beds, good A/C and nice toiletries. Everyone on staff was wonderful, including the man who helped with our bags and the always helpful front desk team. It may lack the sterile finish of an international chain hotel, but that made the stay more worthwhile. Highly recommended!

We were sorry to leave after three nights in a tropical bungalow at Kanumera Bay. Our 3-year-old daughter had her own bed in our room, which worked fine, and the bungalow was just a few steps from the exquisite beach. The grounds were lovely and peaceful. Breakfast was a good buffet with a nice selection. The staff were friendly and helpful, though one person seemed less helpful and we got conflicting information about where to book bikes. That was minor compared with how fantastic the rest of the stay was. We enjoyed the free snorkelling and kayak gear and relaxed on a beautiful beach. We'd definitely recommend it and would love to return.

The resort is beautiful, the staff are quite nice, and there are lots of activities to try, including bike riding.