The Top Savusavu Activities and Attractions
When visiting Fiji‘s enchanting “other” big island, Savusavu beckons as a captivating destination in its own right. This charming town, nestled on Vanua Levu, offers a treasure trove of experiences that will make you want to linger. From the moment you arrive at the local airport, you’ll be drawn into Savusavu’s unique blend of natural wonders and cultural riches.
Don’t rush off just yet – Savusavu’s boundaries hold plenty of allure. Immerse yourself in the town’s fascinating attractions, such as the pearl farm where you can witness the cultivation of Fiji’s prized jewels, or soak in the rejuvenating hot springs that bubble up from the earth.
For those basing themselves at one of the fabulous accommodations in Savusavu, you’re perfectly positioned to embark on thrilling adventures. Just a short journey away, cascading waterfalls await your discovery, offering refreshing swimming holes and picturesque hiking trails.
Ocean enthusiasts will be thrilled by the world-class scuba diving excursions available, showcasing Fiji’s vibrant underwater ecosystems teeming with colourful marine life.
Savusavu isn’t just a gateway to Vanua Levu, it’s a destination that commands attention and rewards those who take the time to explore. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a bit of both, this charming town serves as an ideal base for your Fijian escapade.
Plan an unforgettable trip to this hidden gem with our curated list of the best things to do in Savusavu, and prepare to fall in love with Fiji’s lesser-known paradise.
The list below details attractions within the immediate Savusavu area. For more attractions within driving distance, head to the 20 Best Things to Do in Vanua Levu.
Table of Contents
1. Check Out the Nakama Hot Springs
While there are several hot springs lining the beach of Savusavu seen steaming at low tide, the most popular hot springs to visit are the ones opposite the Savusavu Hot Springs Hotel.
The water, however, is around 100°C (212°F) so, needless to say, bathing directly in the hot springs is not advised… On the other hand, the Nakama Hot Springs can be experienced by watching the locals using them to cook food.
These springs have a rich history, with past eruptions forming geysers as tall as 12-18 m (39-59 ft).
The springs are easily accessible, located just a short walk or taxi ride from the town centre, behind the Max Value store.
Location: Nakama Road, Savusavu. Behind the Max Value store and across the road from the Savusavu Hot Springs Hotel.
© FijiPocketGuide.com2. Mingle with the Locals at the Savusavu Market
Not too far from the waterfront in Savusavu town, the Savusavu Market is a must-visit. Browse a huge array of local fruit and vegetables under the cover of the open-air market building and meet the friendly locals.
Get inspired on what to buy using the 10 Exotic Fruits in Fiji You Have to Try and pick up some kava (yaqona) here if you plan on visiting a village. We also love the array of handmade crafts, so you’ll be sure to pick up something unique.
Again, get inspired by the 10 Amazing Fijian Souvenirs.
Location: By the bus station, Lesiaceva Road, Savusavu town centre.
© FijiPocketGuide.com3. Wander Around Flora Tropica Gardens
Immerse yourself in the lush beauty of the Flora Tropica Garden, a botanical paradise boasting over 250 palm species from around the globe.
As you meander along gravel pathways and elevated boardwalks, you’ll discover a tranquil lily pond, winding trails with stunning vistas of Savusavu Bay, and an abundance of tropical flora. The garden showcases flowering trees, shrubs, orchids, and more than 40 types of tropical fruit trees.
You’ll find serene rest areas perfect for soaking in the surroundings. Most visitors spend about 2 hours exploring this meticulously curated plant haven.
For more budget-friendly attractions like this, take a look at our 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do on Vanua Levu.
Location: Lesiaceva Road, 5 km (3 mi) southwest of Savusavu town centre, Vanua Levu, Vanua Levu. Open by appointment; simply call the number on the entrance gate sign.
© FijiPocketGuide.com4. Join a Pearl Farm Tour with J Hunter Pearls
Discover the fascinating world of fine jewellery creation with J Hunter Pearls. This underwater pearl farm tour offers a unique blend of education and luxury.
You’ll start with a 15-minute presentation at the showroom in town, learning about the history of cultured pearls and J Hunter’s specific processes.
Then, hop aboard a glass-bottom boat to observe black-lipped oysters in their natural habitat, witnessing these remarkable sea creatures at various stages of growth. For the adventurous, there’s even an opportunity to snorkel over the farm.
The tour, lasting about 1 hr 30 mins to 2 hrs, concludes with a visit to the J Hunter Pearls showroom where you can admire (and purchase!) the final product – rare pearls with distinctive earthly colours.
Tours run Monday to Friday at 9:30 am and 1:30 pm, offering a perfect blend of insight and indulgence for jewellery enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.
Location: Lesiaceva Road, Savusavu. On the eastern end of town.
© FijiPocketGuide.com5. Head Out on a Scuba Diving or Freediving Trip
You are spoiled for choice when it comes to scuba diving from Savusavu. Ocean Ventures Fiji offers an exclusive diving experience in the pristine waters of Natewa Bay, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with reef sharks, and enjoy the serenity of a hidden marine paradise, all guided by a conservation-minded team dedicated to small-group adventures.
Savusavu is also the base of Liquidstate Freediving should you want to try freediving! They invite you to unlock your body’s potential with expert guidance in the tranquil waters of Savusavu, whether you’re aiming to dive deeper, enhance your breath-hold, or simply connect with the meditative aspects of freediving in a safe and serene environment.
In addition, several resorts offer scuba diving for all abilities, open for guests and non-guests, including Koro Sun Resort, Savasi Island Resort, Namale Resort and Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort.
Location: Ocean Ventures Fiji and Liquidstate Freediving’s office, Copra Shed Marina, Savusavu town centre. The resort links above also show locations.
© Liquidstate Freediving6. Hike or Join a Wellness Retreat with Naveria Heights Lodge
Offering one of the most extensive arrays of land activities in Savusavu, Naveria Heights Lodge is not just an accommodation but adventure experts.
Join them for one of their guided hiking expeditions around Vanua Levu with trips to suit a range of timeframes and fitness levels.
The lodge also offer wellness and detox retreats incorporating hiking, nutritional workshops, medicinal garden walks and much more.
Find out more about hiking in the 10 Best Walks in Savusavu & Vanua Levu and wellness in The Guide to Wellness Retreats in Fiji.
Location: Naveria Heights is perched on a hill just off Lesiaceva Road. Meeting points can be arranged with Sharon upon booking.
© FijiPocketGuide.com7. Snap a Photo of the Vuadomo Village Waterfall
One of the popular waterfall experiences on Vanua Levu is the Vuadomo Waterfall. Unless you’re visiting via a guided tour, pick up some kava from the market to gift as a “sevusevu” to the village chief, along with an FJ$25 entry fee (check out our advice on visiting a Fijian village for more information).
Then, a picturesque 10-minute stroll through a lush valley leads you to the stunning Vuadomo Waterfall, which cascades into a deep, inviting rock pool.
The village also offers hikes on the picturesque Muanivatu Trails, massages (you’ll need to book these in advance through the Muanivatu Trails website) and the chance to get your hands dirty with some mangrove planting on the beach.
Location: Vuadomo Village, Savusavu Bay, Vanua Levu. From Savusavu, take Cross Island Road past the village of Jerusalemi and turn onto Vuadomo Road. Follow the dirt road for about 2 km (1 mi) until you reach the village. Visitors are advised to bring a sevusevu (traditional offering) when visiting the village (unless you’re with a tour guide). Additionally, it is important to wear appropriate clothing during the visit. The village is approximately 14 km (8.7 mi) from Savusavu.
© FijiPocketGuide.com8. Soak in the Levuka Lailai Hot Pool
You’ll love this hidden gem a short drive from Savusavu. As you sink into the hot pool, you’ll feel the organic-rich mud exfoliating your skin – it’s nature’s spa treatment!
The deeper you dig your toes, the hotter it gets. Locals swear by its healing properties, claiming it soothes aching joints and brings a sense of tranquillity.
After your soak, you’ll emerge with silky smooth skin that feels absolutely fabulous. While taxis can easily take you there, buses don’t stop at this natural wonder.
Location: Cross Island Road, Levukalailai, Savusavu, Vanua Levu. Approximately 23 km (14 mi) west of Savusavu, just before the Levuka Koro sign and road bridge.
© FijiPocketGuide.com9. Snorkel at Split Rock
Don your snorkelling gear and head to Split Rock. This top snorkelling spot in the whole of Fiji offers amazing underwater sights, such as clownfish, sergeant fish, damsels, clams, grouper, parrotfish and more.
Accessible directly from the shore, the site features a large coral head that rises from the ocean floor.
For more snorkelling tips, head to The Ultimate Guide to Snorkelling in Fiji.
Location: Lesiaceva Road, opposite road post No.63. A white buoy marks the spot. Approximately 6 km (4 mi) west of Savusavu town.
© FijiPocketGuide.com10. Eat Out in Savusavu
Finally, complete your outing in Savusavu with a delicious meal. Dine at Delhi6 in Nakama, an Indian restaurant celebrated for its tandoori dishes, biryanis and curries, offering authentic flavours from North India in a welcoming setting.
Other must-tries are Mum’s Kitchen for its affordable and traditional Fijian meals and upscale dining experience of The Captain’s Table at Copra Shed Marina.
Location: Check out the location of each recommendation and more in The Guide to the Best Eats & Restaurants on Vanua Levu.
© FijiPocketGuide.comMore About Savusavu
That’s it for our guide to Savusavu, for more information about this hidden gem of Fiji, check out the following articles:
Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our The Complete Guide to Savusavu.
Sources:
The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Fiji and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:
- Savusavu Tourism Association (Regional tourism website)
- Tourism Fiji (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
- SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Revenue & Customs Service (Customs and visitor taxes - Updated [2025])
- Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
- Fiji Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
- Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (Tourism statistics - Updated [2025])
- Land Transport Authority (Road safety advice - Updated [2025])
- Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
- Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
- Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
- Savusavu Tourism Association (Regional tourism website)
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