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Tadine, Mare, New Caledonia

Maré is the second-largest of the Loyalty Islands group in New Caledonia. The island is a raised coral atoll, so the highest land you’ll see is Cap Wabao, a flat-topped plateau that was once a coral islet itself. You are likely to be greeted on reaching the shore by the lovely singing of local women. The village is a sleepy place, and the main attraction for most visitors is the beautiful lagoon of Yedjele Beach, where crystal clear waters and plentiful coral and colorful fish make for world-class snorkeling. Depending on the date of your visit, it’s likely that a performance of folkloric sing and dance may be on offer as well. Motorbikes and bicycles are available for rent, and a sunken grotto locally referred to as the Pentheon Caves can be visited for a swim or a relaxing interlude in Medu on beyond Yedjele Beach.