Rockwater Resort
Ocean Road Ipak Bay, Tanna Island 0000 Vanuatu
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Prices are provided by our partners, and reflect average nightly room rates, including taxes and fees that are fixed, known to our partners, and due at time of booking. Other miscellaneous taxes and hotel fees which are not fixed or due at time of booking may be payable at the property at time of stay. Please see our partners for more details.
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About
#1 of 5 resorts in Tanna Island
Location
Cleanliness
Service
Value
Since its 2018 opening, Rockwater has been rated as Vanuatu’s best island resort by travellers.
100% locally owned and operated as a very private, understated, relaxing personal sanctuary.
This authentic eco-boutique resort, surrounded by a pristine marine park and seaside gardens has been hand crafted out of the coral cliffs of the Tanna coastline.
The wellbeing, romance and privacy of every guest is at the core of all facilities and services.
Trust is everything between friends, so no advertising, no gimmicks or up-selling inflated services and activities.
All tours are sold at cost, all tour revenue goes to the local people..
Our rationally priced menu changes every day.
Check out our social media accounts for more.
Hope to see you soon, your hosts John and Silvana.
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Property amenities
Free parking
Free High Speed Internet (WiFi)
Pool
Free breakfast
Beach
Badminton
Free airport transportation
24-hour security
Wifi
Pool / beach towels
Pool with view
Adult pool
Outdoor pool
Saltwater pool
Plunge pool
Shallow end in pool
Bar / lounge
Restaurant
Breakfast in the room
Complimentary Instant Coffee
Complimentary tea
Complimentary welcome drink
Outdoor dining area
Special diet menus
Boating
Canoeing
Diving
Game room
Hiking
Snorkelling
Walking tours
Board games / puzzles
Airport transportation
Shuttle bus service
Car hire
Taxi service
Baggage storage
Concierge
Non-smoking hotel
Sun deck
Sun loungers / beach chairs
Sun terrace
First aid kit
Private check-in / check-out
Laundry service
Washing machine
Ironing service
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Room features
Blackout curtains
Housekeeping
Private balcony
Bottled water
Clothes rack
Coffee / tea maker
Refrigerator
Walk-in shower
Tile / marble floor
Electric kettle
Bath / shower
Complimentary toiletries
Hair dryer
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Room types
Ocean view
Non-smoking rooms
Suites
Good to know
HOTEL STYLE
Romantic
Ocean View
Languages Spoken
English, French, Italian
Location
142Reviews5Q+A26Room tips
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Spectacular setting, authentic experience, caring and professional staff - the highlight of our Vanuatu holiday. Be awestruck by the volcano, swim in the Blue Cave, visit the giant Banyan Tree, snorkel the private coral reef, watch Humpback Whales from your day chair. Go there!
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
The moment we arrived at this resort we were greeted by the Owner Silvana who helped us get ready to head straight up to Mt Yasur Volcano. She was most helpful. She even packed us sandwich and drink knowing we would get back until after 8pm. Once we arrived back we had dinner. The food at the resort is really nice and quite reasonably priced. The wait staff were so beautiful, friendly and kind. Our room was unique to say the least. The complete resort has been built into existing coral formations and was amazing. The bed was so comfortable as were the pillows. The shower was hot. Rooms were very clean and quite roomy. We were lucky we received an upgrade which was lovely. The only negative I have to say about the rooms were that there wasn't sufficient ventilation so they were a little musty smelling. The gardens were so beautiful and the snorkeling straight out the front of the resort was absolutely amazing, best I've done in some time. Bright coral, lots of fish and a few sea snakes which are apparently harmless. I would definitely recommend staying here, lovely place to visit. …
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from John Nicholls, Owner at Rockwater Resort
Responded 3 weeks ago
Thank you for taking the time to write a review of Rockwater, our sincere apologies about the room. Sometimes following a long period of rain or repeated occupancy one or two rooms with the highest stone surfaces can take a little longer to dry off. During those times of higher humidity we try to rotate them and give the room a “rest day”. Thank you noting our restaurant prices. We like to ensure that we not only have good portions and quality but the most reasonable priced meals on Tanna Island. Thanks again for bringing it to our attention, all the best from Silvana, Nawiwa, Lina, Yvonne and me :-)
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
I've been living in Vanuatu for seven years now and have travelled around most of the islands here, and was lucky enough recently to get to spend one night in Rockwater, and I really do think if I wanted to spend a week anywhere in Vanuatu just relaxing and feeling serene, this would be the place! It's a beautiful resort which is built so cleverly, and great yarns with the owners. Lots to do around if you'd like (Tanna really is one of the most astonishing places I've ever been), but also the perfect spot to do nothing!
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Date of stay: September 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from John Nicholls, Owner at Rockwater Resort
Responded 3 weeks ago
It was a pleasure meeting you, catching up on the “Big Smoke” of Port Vila. As you said, Tanna is one of the most astonishing places you’ve ever been ...returning from a three hour snorkel in our marine park, I definitely agree with you! Too many first timers to Vanuatu believe Port Vila is representative of Vanuatu when 80%+ of the population and highlights of Vanuatu are found in the islands like Tanna. Big wave to Port Vila from all of us on Tanna!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
If you enjoy being absolutely indulged make sure you stay at Rockwater Resort on Tanna. Sylvana and John are the most attentive, welcoming and genuine hosts you will ever find. Sylvana even cooked me a delicious birthday cake 🎂 The service by the staff is second to none with Nawiwa and Lina providing exceptional service in the restaurant. Food is absolutely delicious and the surrounds are magical and the gardens have to be seen to be believed. The rooms are the most unique we have ever stayed in. Rockwater Resort is the perfect place to completely relax and immerse yourself in nature
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Date of stay: October 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Do yourself a favour and stay at Rockwater and contact the hosts Sylvana and John for any day...
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from John Nicholls, Owner at Rockwater Resort
Responded 21 Oct 2023
Thank so much for your review of Rockwater Nadia. As we do not advertise or sponsor online booking sites (prefer to spend our money on improving guests facilities), we very much appreciate reviews for others to get the word out. As you found, Rockwater is a very private and personal place for special people who are looking for a real break from their everyday life. No crowds or loudness, just total relaxation ...with a few exploratory tours of this awesome island we have called home for 15 odd years. Look forward to seeing you again! Keep safe and happy, Silvana, Nawiwa, Lina and John.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
Having experienced the adventure of 7 visits across 3 provinces of Vanuatu I can safely say Rockwater Resort has been my favourite. Visiting Vanuatu has its challenges most notably Air Vanuatu. But once reaching Tanna Island, Rockwater was a delight. The location is tropical paradise. 10 minutes from the airport and perched above the ocean in a series of terraced gardens I spent hours wandering the grounds watching the Cardinal honeyeaters feed, spying on the reef life below and watching the whales laze past. The snorkeling on the reef below is exceptional and access from the resort brilliant. At 66 years of age I’m over too much effort! My wife and I stayed in a Rock Suite 3 which was first rate and better than the photos. The restaurant ambiance, drink selection and food was as good as anywhere in Vanuatu. The Ni-van staff a delight and always fun. The included breakfast was above expectations. The owners John and Sylvania are long term residents of Vanuatu and very engaging hosts. Rockwater is a culmination of ideas and experiences from working in and managing resorts all over the world. John loves to give you a tour of his work and share his vision with you. It is fascinating to hear about it construction. If there is a problem with your stay they are always there to straighten it out unlike some other places. Tanna is a remote island which is part of its charm. Things run very much slower on Island time. It’s very laid back. Many roads are just tracks at times. It is recovering from 2 cyclones back to back but coming along nicely. The locals live an extremely simple life by Australian standards and are extremely honest people in my experience. The drivers for tours and transfers are always willing to tell you about their culture and most have worked in New Zealand and Australia fruit picking etc. If you want to just sit, relax, potter about or gaze at the ocean this is the place. Or if you want there’s 15 kilometres of road through jungle and coastal vistas to walk in complete safety at your door step, but do take plenty of water. As I said it is excellent snorkelling on site with no extra costs. Yeah I loved the 7 nights we had there and by booking direct with Rockwater I got a proper discount at checkout.…
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Stayed in Rock Suite 3. Wonderful day bed with oceans views. But they all do.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from John Nicholls, Owner at Rockwater Resort
Responded 30 Sept 2023
Silvana, the staff and I are very fortunate. We have the opportunity to meet wonderful people like you from all over the world without ever leaving home! We enjoy sharing our lives (albeit always too short a time) on this undiscovered awesome island. Having travelled throughout the Vanuatu archipelago, I found Tanna to be the most iconic and memorable island in Vanuatu, hence why we are on our third resort here. Many do not know (or find out too late) that Tanna deserves a minimum of 5 nights to truly enjoy the location and people. Thank you for staying with us and sharing our little tranquil corner of the world. Hope you make it back one day, there’s always more to discover! Silvana, Nawiwa, Lyn Rose, and John
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
There exist certain places in this vast world that effortlessly evoke the feeling of being embraced by the warmth of home, and among them, the Rockwater resort in Tanna stands out. From the very instant you cross paths with Silvana and John, the proprietors, their boundless passion becomes abundantly clear. Meticulously fashioned from the coral cliffs that grace the North Tanna shoreline, this paradise places the well-being, romance, and privacy of each guest at the heart of all its offerings and services. This sentiment permeates every nook and cranny of the resort. The gardens are meticulously tended, and the staff's affability is nothing short of astonishing. Imagine being greeted by Nauhiva's radiant smile as she welcomes you to every meal—could there be a more delightful experience? And then there's the culinary fare, a masterpiece in itself. The revelation that the island's remoteness and scarcity of ingredients pose challenges only amplifies the accolades due to the hotel's chef, who could easily merit a Bib Gourmand award. It's no surprise that the resort has maintained its status as Tanna Island's premier destination since its inauguration in 2018. It truly epitomizes an intimate eco-boutique resort, ensconced within a pristine marine park where snorkeling attains an unparalleled brilliance. Each guest is embraced as if part of the extended family, cherished by both the dedicated staff and management alike. Thank you Silvana and John for this great experience!!! …
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
Room Tip: Enjoy the nature in its best! Do not miss the evening fire with a glass of wine/bottle of beer.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from John Nicholls, Owner at Rockwater Resort
Responded 19 Sept 2023
I often remind my staff: Operating a resort and delivering the expected is a profession. It will get you by… Going a little further to create an experience for our guests that will be in their hearts forever requires passion. Which do you want to do? I had our supervisors over to read your review. After they had a giggle on your spelling of Nawiwa, they all had a tear in their eyes. I was not surprised, that’s who they are. Thank you for letting them know how valuable they are. ...till next time, John.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
+1
We came to rock water for a single night and wish we had booked for 5 nights. Silvana and John made us feel right at home and super comfortable. The resort is a wonder of architecture and landscaping. We had wonderful tour of the grounds and the farm and the garden. The snorkeling from the rocks is some of the best we have ever done. This is a unique and gorgeous destination.
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Date of stay: August 2023Trip type: Travelled as a couple
Room Tip: Just come!
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from John Nicholls, Owner at Rockwater Resort
Responded 23 Aug 2023
Thank you for your kind words, you were such a lovely couple to please. We also would of loved to share more time with you, maybe next time! Silvana and John.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Unique resort built into the rocks on the coast of Tanna island. Comfortable rooms, nice restaurant, good views and plenty of places to relax. Be sure to do the volcano tour and the trip to the Blue cave.
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Date of stay: July 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from John Nicholls, Owner at Rockwater Resort
Responded 23 Jul 2023
Thank you Gavin for taking the time to review your stay with us. Hope to see you again! Silvana, Nawiwa, Mary and John
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Rockwater resort was stunning!! From the arrival welcome to the departure and everything in between. The rooms were clean and very comfortable, the food was great, the owners and staff were friendly and very hospitable! The gardens and architecture were original, beautiful and very creative. Talk about beautiful!! I highly recommend this gorgeous resort.
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Date of stay: June 2023Trip type: Travelled with family
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1 Helpful vote
Helpful
Response from John Nicholls, Owner at Rockwater Resort
Responded 10 Jul 2023
Cute title, must use it somewhere! Love to have you guys here again, just a joy to look after. All the very best in your future plans! Silvana, Nawiwa, Mary and John.
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Very nice resort to enjoy swimming, snorkeling, sunsets and visiting what Tanna has to offer. Delicious breakfast wish fresh local fruit. Restaurant is great for dinner. No other option nearby but perfect for a 2 to 3 days stay in Tanna.
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Date of stay: February 2023Trip type: Travelled solo
Value
Location
Service
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Helpful
Response from John Nicholls, Owner at Rockwater Resort
Responded 14 Jun 2023
Thanks guys for taking the time to give a review, it is heart warming and very much appreciated. Call us dreamers, but we do not waste any money on advertising, just word of mouth and social media. Wished you had more sunny days to enjoy the marine park …maybe next time :-) John, …Silv, Nawiwa and Mary send their love!
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This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
PRICE RANGE
$220 - $252 (Based on Average Rates for a Standard Room)
LOCATION
VanuatuTanna Island
NUMBER OF ROOMS
10
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Frequently Asked Questions about Rockwater Resort
Which popular attractions are close to Rockwater Resort?
Nearby attractions include Blue Cave (3.0 km).
What are some of the property amenities at Rockwater Resort?
Some of the more popular amenities offered include free wifi, free breakfast, and a pool.
Which room amenities are available at Rockwater Resort?
Top room amenities include a refrigerator, blackout curtains, and a walk-in shower.
What food & drink options are available at Rockwater Resort?
Guests can enjoy free breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a lounge during their stay.
What are some restaurants close to Rockwater Resort?
Conveniently located restaurants include White Grass Ocean Resort & Spa, Rockwater Resort, and Tanna Evergreen Resort Restaurant.
Are there opportunities to exercise at Rockwater Resort?
Yes, guests have access to a pool during their stay.
Does Rockwater Resort have an airport shuttle?
Yes, Rockwater Resort offers an airport shuttle for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Does Rockwater Resort have airport transportation?
Yes, Rockwater Resort offers airport transportation for guests. We recommend calling ahead to confirm details.
Are any cleaning services offered at Rockwater Resort?
Yes, laundry service and a washing machine are offered to guests.
Which languages are spoken by the staff at Rockwater Resort?
The staff speaks multiple languages, including English, French, and Italian.