Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel
A small white chapel of 1898 on a headland above Jinek Bay on Lifou.
Updated 3 September 2026
The chapel at Easo was built in 1898 to mark the landing of the first Catholic missionaries on Lifou, and it stands white and small on a headland above Jinek Bay, reached by a short steep path from the road. From the terrace outside the bay opens below with the reef edge visible through the water. Jinek Bay itself, at the foot of the headland, is one of the better snorkelling sites in the territory.
What's there
- The white chapel - the small 1898 building on the headland.
- The bay view - Jinek Bay and the reef edge from the terrace.
- The Jinek snorkelling - the reef below the headland, entered from the shore.
- The mission history - the landing the chapel was built to commemorate.
When to go
April to November is the dry cooler season. Cruise ship days fill Jinek Bay completely. Mornings are calmest for snorkelling.
Before you go
The path up is short but steep and uneven. Jinek Bay is overwhelmed on cruise days and access is limited then. The chapel interior is often locked.
Nearby
Jokin is north, and Wé is east across the island.
What to pack for Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Your own mask + snorkel - A well-fitting mask is the single biggest comfort upgrade underwater. Find on Amazon
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- Rash guard or thin wetsuit - Sun cover on the surface and warmth on longer or deeper dives. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
