Vanimo

Vanimo is the capital of Sandaun Province (formerly West Sepik Province) in Papua New Guinea. It is a coastal town located on a peninsula close to the border with Indonesia. Vanimo serves as a regional administrative and commercial center for the province, though its economy remains largely dependent on agriculture, forestry, and fishing.

The town is known for its surfing opportunities, particularly during the months of October to April when consistent north swells arrive. Tourism, driven by surfing and the natural beauty of the surrounding area, is a growing sector.

Vanimo has an airport (Vanimo Airport, code VAI) that provides connections to other major towns and cities in Papua New Guinea, including Port Moresby. The town also has a seaport that handles cargo and passenger traffic.

Historically, the area around Vanimo was inhabited by various indigenous groups. The town's development accelerated during the colonial period and after Papua New Guinea gained independence in 1975. Its proximity to the Indonesian border has also made it a focal point for cross-border trade and migration.