Ile des Pins or the ‘Isle of Pines’ is an island in the archipelago of New Caledonia. The island, often called ‘the island closest to paradise’, is surrounded by the New Caledonia Barrier Reef.

Straddling the Tropic of Cancer, Ile des Pins has a population of about 100,000 inhabitants. Characterized by a tropical climate that is moderated by the surrounding ocean, it essentially has a warm season which extends from November to March and a cool season during the months of April to October. Heavy rain and cyclones are likely during the months of December to March.

The Isle of Pines has a spectacular pine tree skyline with sandy beaches and turquoise lagoons. Most islanders live in their own tribal area; the cultivation of yams being the most common occupation. All important buildings are in Vao, the only village on the island.

Noumea, the capital city of New Caledonia, is located on a peninsula in the south of New Caledonia's main island, Grand Terre.
It is the capital, chief port, and principal administrative a...