Freshwater Swimming Spots in Fiji
Sure, the saltwater lagoons found off the many islands of Fiji are a darn good place for a swim, but if you’re looking for something more refreshing or perhaps more of an adventure to get to, then head for Fiji’s freshwater swimming holes. There are many rivers and streams winding their way through Fiji’s larger islands of Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni and Kadavu, in turn, creating fantastic swimming spots along the way. Spoiler alert: the top swimming holes in Fiji are pretty much all at beautiful waterfalls!
1. Biausevu Waterfall
One of Fiji’s most popular waterfalls and swimming holes, the Biausevu Waterfall is a stunning waterfall on the Coral Coast. Either hike or horse trek from Biausevu Village to this rugged piece of paradise in the interior of Viti Levu where swimming in the refreshing waters is a must. The waterfall can be accessed with a local village guide or a guided tour with Excite Tours & Transfers (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor), New Dawn Tours (on Viator and Tripadvisor), etc. Check out more attractions to see on foot in the 7 Best Walks on the Coral Coast.
Location: Biausevu Village, Coral Coast, Viti Levu
© Excite Tours & Transfers2. Navua River
The Navua River on the Pacific Harbour is home to many river adventures, from river tubing to white water rafting. To reach the best swimming holes and waterfalls along the river, join Discover Fiji Tours (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor) for their riverboat day trip up the river to local villages, waterfalls and for a traditional lovo lunch. Check out more adventures in the area in the 10 Must-Dos on the Pacific Harbour & Beqa.
Location: Pacific Harbour, Viti Levu
© Tourism Fiji3. Wainaibau Falls
Pronounced wye-nim-bau, Wainaibau Falls is just one of many beautiful swimming spots in Taveuni. Tucked at the end of the 5km (3-mile) Lavena Coastal Walk, Wainaibau Falls can be accessed via a swimmable passage from the coast. See more walks to stunning attractions like this in the 9 Best Walks on Taveuni.
Location: Bouma National Heritage Park, Taveuni
© Captain Cook Cruises4. Orchid Falls
The Sabeto Valley, just inland from Nadi, has several hidden waterfalls and swimming holes. One of the most famous is Orchid Falls at the Sleeping Giant Zipline, accessed via a well-marked trail at the zipline grounds. Alternatively, join Fiji Eco Tours (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor) for a guided tour to a similar waterfall with a refreshing swimming hole. Note that the waterfalls look best during the wet season (December-April).
Location: Sabeto Valley, Nadi, Viti Levu
© Fiji Eco Tours5. Colo-i-Suva Forest Park
The natural backyard of Fiji’s capital, Suva, the Colo-i-Suva Forest Park has several fantastic freshwater swimming holes to keep you cool. There are around 6.5km (4 miles) of walking trails in the park to discover the Waisila Falls or the Upper Pool and Lower Pool for swimming. The park is accessible by road, public bus or with Kay Services Tour (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor).
Location: Suva, Viti Levu
© Kay Services Tour6. Bouma Falls (Tavoro Falls)
Arguably the most popular waterfall in Taveuni, Bouma Falls or Tavoro Falls is the icon of the Bouma National Heritage Park. Taking only 10 minutes to walk from the nearby village, the waterfall and swimming hole is a must-visit. The 24m (79ft) waterfall is magnificent to lay your eyes on. What’s more, there’s a “Middle Falls” and “Upper Falls” if you continue on the walk for a further 40 minutes to an hour.
Location: Bouma National Heritage Park, Taveuni
© Captain Cook Cruises7. Savu-i-One Waterfall (Abaca Waterfall)
For more spectacular swimming holes in Fiji’s national parks, check out the Savu-i-One Waterfall or the Abaca Waterfall in the Koroyanitu National Heritage Park. The waterfall is a two-hour walk from Abaca Village, where you can either drive to the village yourself with a 4WD or take a tour with Fiji Eco Tours from Lautoka (more info on Viator and Tripadvisor).
Location: Abaca Village, Suncoast, Viti Levu
© Fiji Eco Tours8. Nakawaga Waterfall
Conveniently close to Savusavu in Vanua Levu, Nakawaga Waterfall provides a fun swimming hole for strong swimmers. After a short but steep climb through the jungle, you will emerge at this powerful waterfall. Tours to the waterfall can be arranged with a guide from Nakawaga Village or as part of a tour with your resort. Check out more attractions around the island in the 10 Must-Dos on Vanua Levu.
Location: Savusavu, Vanua Levu
© Pixabay9. Nabalasere Waterfall
For those looking to get more off the beaten track in Viti Levu, venture to the northern Suncoast of the island to see the Nabalasere Waterfall. Resorts in Rakiraki or guided hiking tours, such as Go Local Fiji Transfers & Tours from Nadi can take you to the picturesque inland village of Nabalasere where it’s a short walk to the 70m (230ft) Nabalasere Waterfall plunging into a swimming hole. Find out more about the tour on Viator and Tripadvisor. Check out more walks in the area in the 9 Best Walks on the Suncoast.
Location: Nabalasere Village, Suncoast, Viti Levu
© Go Local Fiji Transfers & Tours10. Kavala Bay Waterfall
A must-see waterfall on the island of Kadavu, the Kavala Bay Waterfall is your reward for a boat ride and a 45-minute moderate climb. The waterfall trail is only accessible by boat when the tide is transitioning to high tide, which is organised through Kadavu resorts including Mai Dive Resort, Tiliva Resort, Kokomo Island and Oneta Resort. Check out more adventures in Kadavu in the 10 Must-Dos on Kadavu.
Location: Kadavu
© PixabayMore About Swimming Holes in Fiji
That’s it for the best swimming holes in Fiji. See more amazing experiences in the 101 Things to Do in Fiji. Plus, get even more tips from The Complete Travel Guide to Fiji.
