Top Things to Do in Savusavu and Vanua Levu

The waters off Vanua Levu are some of Fiji’s best for snorkelling and scuba diving, especially near Savusavu. Grab a snorkel, mask and fins and swim out to Split Rock, go scuba diving with schooling hammerhead sharks at Dreamhouse or explore Namena Marine Reserve’s thriving reefs. You might also spot dolphins or passing whales during the season. For more diving adventures, there’s also Natewa Bay and the Great Sea Reef; one of the world’s largest reefs. 

Pearls from J. Hunter are coveted for their unusual hues of metallic blues, cool greens and bright bronzes. At just 2500 pearls per harvest, they are some of the rarest pearls in the world. At the J. Hunter pearl farm in Savusavu Bay, you can learn how they load and clean the oyster lines, watch them seed or harvest pearls (during the season) or even swim over the shell beds if you bring snorkels. The tour ends back at their showroom where you can buy one of these gorgeous gems to take home with you. 

If you’re even a little plant-obsessed, this charming nursery on Leisieaceva Point Road is a Savusavu must-do. Five acres of hillside and creek flats overflow with ornamentals and fruit trees, but the real stars are the 250 palm species gathered from around the world, including some rare and endangered beauties. Even if you can’t tell a sago from a banana tree, the calm garden vibes and sweeping views over Savusavu Bay will win you over. Pack a picnic and linger for the afternoon.

One of the best ways to explore Savusavu’s Salt Lake is with Mangrove Jacks Kayaks, located right by the river.  Catch the incoming tide for a paddle through peaceful mangrove forests as local guides point out birdlife and their favourite spots. For more water adventures, kayak upriver on the outgoing tide to explore the reef or join sunset tour to the island at the river mouth. The kayaks are very stable and perfect for beginners or families. Just bring sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water. Resorts in the area ahave their own ways to explore the Salt Lake, including floats, river tubing, SUPs and bamboo (bilibili) rafts. 

Picturesque Natewa Bay – the largest bay in the South Pacific – is home to two large pods of spinner dolphins. Join a guided tour and spend an enjoyable morning tracking their playful antics on the water. The pod heads out to sea most afternoons, so you’ll most likely round off the trip with some fantastic snorkelling in the bay before heading home. Check with your resort for more details.

Just outside Labasa, Naag Mandir looks like most other Hindu temples in Fiji until you step inside and come face to face with its famous cobra-shaped rock. Devotees believe the rock has healing powers, offering it regular gifts of flowers, milk and fruit. The stone has had a mysterious growth spurt (from 6ft – 17ft) over the past century, prompting the priests to raise the roof twice. Visitors are welcome, but you’ll just need to remove your shoes before entering.