About Sanma Province

Sanma is a province located in the Northern part of the nation of Vanuatu, occupying the nation's largest island, Espiritu Santo, which is located approximately 2,500 km northeast of Sydney, Australia. The name Sanma is derived from the initial letters of the main islands of (Espiritu) Santo and Malo.

Sanma Province is made up of the islands Espiritu Santo and Malo and includes a number of smaller surrounding islands that sit just offshore, such as Aore, Tutuba, Turtle, Bokissa and Ratua island.

Known for its world-class diving, blue holes and white sandy beaches, Sanma Province is the perfect destination for your next holiday. Whether you are looking for a romantic escape, off-the-beaten-track adventure, relaxing spell on pristine beaches or a family-friendly getaway, we guarantee that there is something here for everyone !

Getting here is stress-free as Espiritu Santo's Pekoa International Airport, located just outside Luganville, receives daily flights from Port Vila and twice weekly flights from Brisbane Australia via Air Vanuatu.

Sanma Province is also the gateway to the northern outer-islands of Vanuatu. Pekoa airport has direct flights to Torba, Penama and Malampa provinces, making it easy for you to explore !

Transport is regular but still difficult at times especially during rainy seasons. Communication is challenging in some remote areas. Infrastructure is limited on these smaller islands with a few roads and vehicles present on Malo, Aore & Tutuba. Air Vanuatu provides regular service to Santo Island. Small “banana boats” are relied upon heavily at some point of landing access, despite frequent rough seas, to access remaining communities.

The difficulty and infrequent level of transport in Sanma Province has resulted in a much higher pricing for locals when they purchase commonly used goods and supplies such as fuel and tinned foods.

Social, Cultural and Economic Potential

Sanma Province in Vanuatu is known for its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural diversity. The province's economy is based on agriculture, fishing, and horticulture, but there is also potential for growth in other sectors.

Productive Sectors

The primary productive sectors in Sanma Province, Vanuatu, are agriculture (particularly copra and cattle production), tourism, and fisheries; with key areas of focus including coconut farming, livestock rearing, and the potential for high-end tourism development, particularly around the islands of Espiritu Santo, Malo, and Aore.

Key points about Sanma’s productive sectors:

Tourism Potential:

While not as developed as other Vanuatu provinces, Sanma has significant potential for high-end tourism due to its natural beauty, including beaches like Champagne Beach and historical sites like Million Dollar Point.

Fisheries

Fishing activities also contribute to the local economy, with opportunities for further development.

Forestry

Though not as prominent as agriculture, forestry also plays a role in the local economy.

Construction and Property Services:

With potential for development in tourism infrastructure, construction is another relevant sector.

Transport and Logistics:

Maritime transport is crucial for connecting Sanma to other parts of Vanuatu.

Dominant Agriculture:

Copra and cattle production are considered the mainstays of Sanma’s agricultural sector, with a historical reputation for large-scale coconut plantations.

Sanma Province