Rent a car to visit the cultural center, lagoon aquarium, museums, beaches, boutiques and cafes of Noumea, the Pacific's balmy Riviera, or travel the length and breadth of Grand Terre. The main island, 217 miles long and up to 44 miles wide, is divided by an ore-rich mountain chain into starkly contrasting scenery. The west is dry cowboy country with livestock farming; the east is lush forest with Kanak houses and waterfalls. Car rental allows you to see the famous lagoon and coral reefs recognized as a World Heritage Site, or to stay close to your comfortable resort in Noumea.