Big Bay

Big Bay (also known as Santo Bay) is a large bay on the northeastern coast of Espiritu Santo in Sanma Province, Vanuatu. It is a remote and sparsely populated area, characterised by dense rainforest, rugged coastline, and pristine rivers. The bay was the site of the US military's Camp Butts during World War II, and remnants of the war era remain scattered through the jungle. Big Bay is one of the wildest and least-developed parts of Santo, attracting adventurous travellers interested in jungle trekking, river swimming, and exploring abandoned wartime infrastructure.

The climate is tropical. The dry season (May to October) is the only practical time to visit, as access tracks become impassable in the wet season. The area receives very high rainfall year-round.

By Plane

Santo-Pekoa International Airport (SON) near Luganville is the nearest air gateway. From Luganville, Big Bay is reached by a 4WD-only track east then north — approximately 2–3 hours depending on conditions.

By Car / Road

From Luganville, take the east-coast road past Hog Harbour, then continue north on a rough 4WD track to Big Bay. The road is unpaved, muddy, and crosses several rivers. A high-clearance 4WD is absolutely essential, and local guidance is recommended. The journey is approximately 70–80 km.

There are no roads within Big Bay beyond rough tracks. Movement is on foot, by boat, or by 4WD. Arrange everything through a Luganville tour operator.

• Big Bay's wild coastline — a sweeping, undeveloped bay with black-sand beaches and river mouths.

• World War II relics — abandoned vehicles, equipment, and camp structures from the US military occupation.

• Rainforest interior — some of the most intact lowland rainforest on Santo, with towering trees and birdlife.

• Rivers and freshwater pools — several rivers drain into the bay, with clean swimming holes.

• Jungle trekking — guided walks through the rainforest to WWII sites and viewpoints.

• Swimming in freshwater rivers and waterfalls in the hills above the bay.

• Birdwatching — the forest around Big Bay supports Santo's rich birdlife.

• Photography of WWII relics and wild coastline.

The only meals available are those brought by tour groups or prepared at basic camp-style accommodation. There are no restaurants, stores, or permanent eateries.

Bring all drinking water from Luganville. Stream water can be treated but is not reliably potable.

• Budget: Rustic camp-style accommodation at Big Bay, operated by Santo-based tour companies, with basic shelter and meals included in a guided tour package.
• Mid-range: None — there is no permanent hotel or lodge at Big Bay.
• Upscale / heritage: None.

There are no shops at Big Bay. Bring all supplies, food, and cash from Luganville.

• Hog Harbour (1.5–2 hr south by 4WD) — east-coast village with accommodation and snorkelling.
• Champagne Beach (south) — one of Vanuatu's most famous white-sand beaches.
• Port Olry (further south) — fishing village with excellent beaches.
• Luganville (2–3 hr south) — Santo's main hub with markets, diving, and WWII history.