A Whirlwind of Wonder at Nanda Blue Hole

Our adventure began at the mesmerizing Nanda Blue Hole, also known as Jacquie’s Blue Hole. As a family travel writer, I’ve seen my fair share of natural wonders, but this one took my breath away. The vibrant blue waters were so inviting, and the kids were absolutely thrilled to jump in and explore. It was like swimming in a giant sapphire! The landowner, Jacquie, and his family were incredibly welcoming, sharing stories about the history of the blue hole and their desire to preserve its beauty for future generations. It was a perfect start to our day, and I could already tell this was going to be a memorable experience.

The kids loved the freedom to splash around, and I appreciated the safety measures in place, making it a stress-free experience for parents. We spent a good amount of time here, soaking in the beauty and tranquility of the surroundings. It was a great opportunity for some family bonding, and I couldn’t help but snap a few photos to capture the moment.

Champagne Beach: A Slice of Paradise

Next on our itinerary was the stunning Champagne Beach. I’ve read about its almost pure white sand and crystal-clear waters, but seeing it in person was something else entirely. The sand was so fine it squeaked beneath our feet, and the kids had a blast building sandcastles and playing in the gentle waves. It was the perfect spot for a family picnic, and we took full advantage of the serene setting to relax and enjoy some local snacks.

Our guide, Judisson, was a wealth of knowledge, sharing fascinating tidbits about the local flora and fauna. His enthusiasm was infectious, and it was clear he loved sharing his island with visitors. We felt like we had the beach to ourselves, and it was a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The kids even found some unique shells to add to their collection, a little souvenir from our day in paradise.

Discovering History at Million Dollar Point and Port Olry

Our journey continued to Million Dollar Point, a site steeped in history and intrigue. Judisson regaled us with tales of how the site got its name, and we were fascinated by the remnants of World War II equipment embedded in the coral and rocks. It was a unique experience, and the kids were captivated by the idea of exploring a real-life treasure trove.

Finally, we made our way to Port Olry, a charming former Francophone town. The lush green hills and pristine beaches were a sight to behold, and we couldn’t resist taking a dip in the crystal-clear waters. It was the perfect way to end our day, and we even had the chance to try some local kava, a drink that left our tongues tingling and our spirits high.

Throughout the day, we were struck by the warmth and friendliness of the locals. Judisson seemed to know everyone, and it was heartwarming to see the sense of community on the island. As we made our way back to the cruise ship, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the unforgettable experiences and the new friends we’d made along the way. This tour was truly a highlight of our trip, and we can’t wait to return to Santo Island for more adventures.