Which Oceanian country includes the island of Espiritu Santo? The answer is Vanuatu.
Espiritu Santo, commonly called Santo, is Vanuatu’s largest island by area. It lies in the country’s northern part and belongs to Sanma Province. The island covers about 3,955.5 square kilometres, while Luganville is its largest settlement and provincial capital.
Santo was encountered by the Spanish expedition of Pedro Fernandes de Queirós in 1606. Its name means “Holy Spirit,” reflecting the expedition’s religious naming tradition. Vanuatu itself was formerly known as the New Hebrides during the period of British and French administration.
The island is not Vanuatu’s most populous: Efate, home to the capital Port Vila, has more residents. That distinction often causes confusion when questions switch between largest island, largest population and national capital. Espiritu Santo is also known for Champagne Beach, extensive caves, diving sites and Mount Tabwemasana, Vanuatu’s highest peak.