25 Best Things to Do on Taveuni

Last Updated: 19 April, 2025

The Top Activities and Attractions on Taveuni

Immerse yourself in nature on the wonderful island of Taveuni. Known as the “Garden Island”, Taveuni contains a pre-historic jungle with palms, giant ferns and tropical flowers attracting colourful birdlife. Offshore, the gardens continue in the form of colourful coral gardens known as the Rainbow Reef. Out on the water or on land, you will find yourself connecting with nature when visiting Taveuni. So when you are planning your time in paradise, make sure to add some of our things to do in Taveuni to your bucket list!

For more advice on visiting Taveuni, check out our Complete Guide to Taveuni, as well as the 20 Best Resorts on Taveuni.

1. Snorkel at the Waitabu Marine Park

After being extremely overfished, the Waitabu Marine Park was established as a marine park in 1998 by the local villages. Fishing here is now forbidden meaning that the underwater world in this area thrives once again making it a paradise for snorkellers. Explore the vibrant soft coral reefs and swim among a huge population of varied tropical fish. The local village here offers snorkelling and cultural experience tours. Find out more in the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do on Taveuni.

Location: Waitabu, 17.5 km (11 mi) south of Matei along the east coast road. Be sure to contact the Waitabu visitor centre before you arrive (6798201999), so you don’t have to wait around for someone to find you.

2. Check Out the Views (and the Birds) at Des Voeux Peak

The birdwatching and spectacular Bouma National Heritage Park are huge drawcards for the island of Taveuni, with a great combination of both being found on the Des Voeux Peak trail. De Voeux Peak is Taveuni’s highest peak at 1,195 m (3,930 ft). From Wairiki on the west coast, the walk up the access road is not too difficult but takes approximately two hours to reach the summit. Those who arrive at the top will be rewarded with views of Vanua Levu and even as far as the islands of Koro and Gau in the south on a clear day. The best time for birdwatching is during the nesting season in August and September. See more activities like this in the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do on Taveuni.

Location: Take the access road turn-off in Wairiki, between the Catholic Mission and Wairiki Wharf. Guided walks can be arranged with Bay Adventures and Taveuni Ocean Sports. Note that there is a small entry fee for hiking the trail.

3. Hike to Lake Tagimoucia

Taveuni is one of the Fiji islands where you’ll want to spend just as much time on land as in the water. One of those reasons is the beautiful Lake Tagimoucia. The old volcanic crater became a lake after the volcanoes of Somosomo became dormant. Today, the endemic tagimoucia vine flower, Fiji’s national flower, can be found high up in the canopy in the forest surroundings. You’ll need to hire a guide to embark on this day-long hike, which is an extension of the Des Voeux Peak Trail (see above). Check out more walks in the 10 Best Walks on Taveuni.

Location: Hire a guide at your resort.

4. Watch the Vuna Blowholes

For adventures in the south of Taveuni, check out the volcanic remnants from Taveuni’s last eruption some 500 years ago. The black volcanic rocks spill into the ocean and, on the turn of low tide, shoot up seawater 15 m (50 ft) into the air! This is the Vuna Blowhole, otherwise known as the Matamaiqi Blowhole.

Location: Southern tip of Taveuni, between Kanacea and Navakawau villages. It is possible to walk from the Vuna Lagoon Lodge (1 hr 15 mins one way) – see the 10 Best Budget Accommodations on Taveuni.

5. Walk the Lavena Coastal Track

If you’re only going to do one walk in the Bouma National Heritage Park, make it the Lavena Coastal Walk. The walk starts on a pristine beach by the Lavena Lodge where you will need to pay a small fee to access the trail. The 3-hour return walk features a varied coastline of black sand beaches, volcanic cliffs, the village of Naba (don’t wander through, stick to the trail) and a suspension bridge. At the end of the walk is Wainibau Falls, beautifully framed by a passage that you can swim through for a better view. There is a rope to help navigate to the left side of the passage where you can then hold onto an underwater ridge to help get closer to the falls. For many more activities like this, check out the 10 Best Walks & Hikes on Taveuni.

Location: Lavena Village, Bouma National Heritage Park, at the end of the east coast road (on the bus route – ask the driver).

6. … Or Marvel at Waterfalls Falling into the Sea on the Lavena Boat Tour

While the Lavena Coastal Walk steals the limelight, an alternative activity in Lavena is an exciting boat tour to see several breathtaking waterfalls. This aquatic adventure takes you to three stunning cascades, each offering a unique experience. The first stop is Wainiabu, where you might have the chance to swim right up to the falls if conditions allow. Next, you’ll witness the impressive Triple Fall, a spectacular trio of cascades. The journey culminates at Spring Falls, a natural wonder that will leave you in awe.

Along the way, you’ll encounter numerous other waterfalls, each adding to the magical atmosphere of this coastal journey. It’s an opportunity to explore the beautiful natural surroundings of Lavena from a different perspective, combining the thrill of a boat ride with the serenity of cascading water.

Location: Lavena Village, Bouma National Heritage Park, at the end of the east coast road (on the bus route – ask the driver).

6. Have a Go on the Waitavala Sliding Rocks

If you’re feeling adventurous, have kids to entertain or just appreciate nature’s playground, check out the Waitavala Waterslide. This 200 m (656 ft)-long natural waterslide chutes down an undulating set of rapids into a narrow stream at the bottom. Be prepared for a few bruises, but also make sure that the slide is safe before you try it yourself, as the currents can be strong after heavy rain. Watch the locals slide down before giving it a go yourself. See more activities like this in the 10 Things to Do in Taveuni with Kids.

Location: Just south of Vuniotu, west coast of Taveuni. From the Garden Island Resort, walk five minutes north to a dirt road beside a bus shelter. Walk up this dirt road for about 20 minutes and turn left just past the sign for the prison. Look out for a worn trail on your right, which leads up to the waterfall.

7. Scuba Dive at the Great White Wall or Rainbow Reef

With the famed Rainbow Reef on Taveuni’s doorstep, scuba diving is a no-brainer! The reef boasts 30 vibrant dive sites, 390 species of coral and around 1,500 species of vibrant fish. It’s common to see large groupers, blue ribbon eels, sea turtles, sharks, lionfish and more. One of the most breathtaking features of the Rainbow Reef is the White Wall, a 46 m (150 ft)-high 61 m (200 ft)-long coral structure covered in soft white coral. While scuba diving is easy to organise from just about any accommodation in Taveuni and the islands of Qamea and Matangi, the specialised dive resorts, such as those we list for Taveuni in the 20 Best Dive Resorts in Fiji, are a good place to start. See more activities like this in the 10 Luxury Activities in Taveuni.

Location: See recommended resorts listed in the link above.

8. Explore the Bouma National Heritage Park

Unsurprisingly, one of Fiji’s two national heritage parks is right here on the “Garden Island” of Taveuni! Covering more than 16,000 ha (40,000 acres) of lush rainforest, this park is a safe haven for native wildlife and indigenous people. If you want to experience the true nature of the Fiji islands than the Bouma National Heritage Park is the place to immerse yourself in. There are several villages in the park each running its own attraction of the park. Korovou is the best place to start a spectacular waterfall walk (see below), while Vidawa offers a trip back in time to see ancient ruins nestled in the hills. Other villages, such as Lavena and Waitabu run water activities in the thriving marine parks just off the shore. Whatever adventure you decide, you’re bound to feel connected with nature after experiencing the Bouma National Heritage Park.

Location: Bouma National Heritage Park, central east coast of Taveuni.

9. See the Tavoro Falls (Bouma Falls)

If you’re not much of a walker but still want to see some of Taveuni’s stunning natural features, then Tavoro Falls, more commonly known as Bouma Falls, is an excellent choice. From the Tavoro visitor centre in Korovou Village (or Bouma Village) in the Bouma National Heritage Park, pay a small fee to enjoy a self-guided walk to three stunning waterfalls. The first waterfall is only a 10-minute walk away, then the next is 40 minutes from the start, and the next is 1 hr 10 minutes from the start. The last waterfall is a more demanding hike, but well worth it due to the 10 m (33 ft) waterfall cascading into the best swimming hole of the three… Plus, most visitors don’t make it this far.

Location: Bouma Village, Bouma National Heritage Park. On the east coast road (on the bus route – ask the driver).

10. Play Some Island Golf

Taveuni really does have it all! Enjoy a round at the Taveuni Dive Resort, home to Taveuni’s only golf course, a well-kept 9-hole course on the island’s remote west coast. Alternatively, play on a private island golf course at COMO Laucala Island, an 18-hole championship golf course amidst a 12 km² (5 mi²) private island. While Fiji is fast becoming a golfing holiday hotspot, the Laucala Island golf course is seen as Fiji’s final golfing frontier, with the golf course exclusively for guests. Find out more about the golf course in The Complete Guide to Golf in Fiji.

Location: COMO Laucala – Laucala Island, off the east coast of Taveuni. Taveuni Dive Resort – Central west coast of Taveuni.

11. Do Some Time-Travelling at the International Dateline

Travel between today and yesterday as you stand on the 180th Meridian where the world time zones reset! Taveuni’s own International Dateline sign shows the place where the 180-Degree Meridian passes through the island. The line indicates where the time zones determine the beginning and end of each day. Of course, Taveuni observes the same time zone as the rest of Fiji for convenience. Regardless, the signs showing “today” and “tomorrow” give a fun and free photo opportunity.

Location: Along the road from Waiyevo leading to the police station. Tours are also available from any resort on Taveuni.

12. Experience Snorkelling in the Somosomo Strait or Kioa Island

We’ve already mentioned a few places where the snorkelling is exceptional around Taveuni, but it’s always worth putting some time aside for more snorkelling! From your resort of village stay’s beach, you’ll have access to some wonderful snorkelling locations (we love the House Reef of Paradise Taveuni), as well as the gear. Boat trips are also popular, especially for keen snorkellers who want to go to the Somosomo Strait near the Rainbow Reef. This narrow passage between Vanua Levu and Taveuni is a rich feeding ground for all sorts of marine life. It’s also one of the places where you’re likely to see stunning manta rays and reef sharks, as mentioned in our 5 Epic Places to See Sharks in Fiji. Rivalling that of the Rainbow Reef is the soft coral wonderland surrounding Kioa Island, located just across the Somosomo Strait near Vanua Levu.

Location: Snorkelling tours are available at most resorts on Taveuni, as well as resorts like The Remote Resort and Viani Bay Resort on the other side of Somosomo Strait on Vanua Levu.

13. Vitalise All the Senses on Bobby’s Farm Tour

Na Bogi Ono Farms, affectionately known as Bobby’s Farm, offers a sensory journey through Fiji’s natural remedies. Join Bobby for an enlightening tour of this conservation farm, teeming with birdlife, medicinal plants, and tropical fruits. You’ll discover sustainable farming practices and learn about the importance of preserving local flora and fauna. For those seeking a more immersive experience, opt for the three-hour tour that includes a delightful “garden-to-table” vegan lunch. Savour fresh produce straight from the farm as you indulge in this farm-to-fork feast. Alternatively, the standard 2-hour tour incorporates birdwatching and food tasting. You can visit the farm independently (it’s located south of Waiyevo) or arrange a tour through any of the resorts on Taveuni. Learn more about Bobby’s hiking tour in the 10 Best Walks & Hikes on Taveuni.

Location: Southwest coast of Taveuni.

14. Go Fishing on the Somosomo Strait

For the reasons mentioned above, the Somosomo Strait‘s current creates an amazing fishing spot for any big game angler. Get ready to tackle blue marlin, giant trevally, dogtooth tuna and much more – check out What Types of Fish Can You Fish For in Fiji. For those looking for a more laidback fishing experience, you will enjoy the magnificent coastal views and fishing for reef fish – something for the whole family.

Location: Fishing is available from many resorts in Taveuni. Tides Reach Resort is a particularly excellent base for fishing.

15. Explore the Coast Through Kayaking

Almost every resort in Taveuni has complimentary kayak hire (or at least affordable hire). It’s a relaxing way to get out on the water and explore the island’s coast and those hard-to-reach places. It’s also a good idea to use kayaks when snorkelling off the beach to keep each other safe from currents. Learn more about kayaking in the 10 Best Kayak Tours in Fiji.

Location: Kayaks are available at most resorts in Taveuni.

16. Get an Authentic Insight into Island Life at a Taveuni Village Visit

Matei, Somosomo, Waiyevo, Wairiki, Vuna, Lavena and Bouma are the largest villages scattered across Taveuni. Taking the time to visit the villages, meeting the friendly locals and learning from their customs is always an eye-opener and a great way to take something from your trip to Fiji. Check out our rules for visiting a village in Fiji in our Guide to Fiji Village Etiquette.

Location: See the villages listed above. We also list our favourite village visits and their locations in the 10 Best Things to Do on Taveuni with Kids and 10 Best Village Tours in Fiji.

17. Sample Real Fijian Food in a Village Visit or Homestay

Another reason to stay or visit a village in Taveuni is for the food. Fiji’s “Garden Island” is unsurprisingly full of foodie experiences – just see 10 Things to Do in Taveuni for Foodies – but if you want to discover what Fijians really eat and how they eat it, then the best thing to do is a village homestay. Stay with a Fijian family where meals are offered to guests at a very reasonable cost and consist of simple yet delicious fresh seafood, root crops like taro and tropical fruit like breadfruit. Meals are usually eaten while with your hands sat on the floor – the real deal!

Location: Pick your homestay with our 5 Best Homestays in Taveuni.

18. See the Catholic Church of Wairiki

Built in 1895, the Catholic Church of Wairiki is an impressive historical site to see in its own right. However, attending a Sunday service is the best time to see the Fijian spirit come to life with beautiful singing in this grand building. You’ll see that people are extremely religious in Fiji sitting on the floor during the sermons. When visiting any church in Fiji, respect people and don’t take pictures during the mass. Taking photos of this 125-year-old church from the outside is acceptable (and recommended)! For more church protocols, see the Fiji Village Etiquette: What to Do When Visiting a Fijian Village and learn more about Fiji’s churches in The Guide to the Religions in Fiji.

Location: Centre of the village green, Wairiki, west coast of Taveuni. You can’t miss it!

19. Relax on the Beach

Don’t tell us that you didn’t come to Fiji for some beach time! There’s plenty of beaches around Taveuni to soak up the sun, go for a swim or a romantic stroll. More than likely, there will be a beach just a short stroll from your resort, as resorts are always ideally located! We love the unique black sand beach along the coastal road north of Paradise Taveuni.

Location: All over Taveuni and the surrounding islands!

20. Walk the Vunitarawau Mangrove Trek

This is best organised when on Taveuni as it is a local’s secret. Near Qeleni lies Vunitarawau which is home to a rare mangrove forest trek that is best done with a guide. This rather unique sight and experience in Fiji is well worth seeking out if you happen to have some spare time on Taveuni and want a real adventure to remember. Ask at your resort for recommended guides. Otherwise, the knowledgeable guides of Bay Adventures are your best option.

Location: Qeleni, northeast coast of Taveuni. Along the east coast road.

21. Enjoy Some Birdwatching

Taveuni is one of the best islands for birdwatching in the whole of Fiji. In the highlands, you will often see silktails and orange doves, especially in the nesting season which occurs in August and September. Other than that, you’ll be amazed by the array of bird species, as well as the wealth of the marine birds especially on the north side of the island facing the Somosomo Strait. Look up Bay Adventures for bird-watching tours on the slopes of Des Voeux Peak (don’t worry, their skilful drivers can get you up there in a 4WD vehicle, so you don’t have to hike the whole way). Another excellent spot for bird watching in Bobby’s Farm (see above).

Location: Des Voeux Peak – Accessible from Wairiki, west coast of Taveuni. Bobby’s Farm – Southwest coast of Taveuni. See Taveuni locations in the 10 Best Places to See Birds in Fiji.

22. Indulge in a Spa Treatment in the Midst of the Jungle

Don’t worry, you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to relax in Taveuni, especially with it being home to some of Fiji’s most unique and award-winning spas. The Jungle Spa on Qamea Resort & Spa is perched deep in the jungle of Qamea Island, offering a fusion of Fijian and French spa treatments. Experience complete comfort and privacy by having an in-villa massage overlooking the ocean at Raiwasa Grand Villa or Vacala Bay Resort. Oh, and we also love the waterfront open-air massage experience of Paradise Taveuni.

Location: See recommendations and their locations in the 10 Best Spas in Taveuni.

23. Surf the Epic Reef Breaks at Qamea Island

From November to April, the waves off the coast of Qamea and Matangi islands are pumping, making Taveuni the perfect base for a surf holiday. Needless to say, the reef breaks, best left to the intermediate to experienced surfers, are blissfully uncrowded. Check out some of Taveuni’s best in the 5 Surf Spots in Taveuni. Resorts that specialise in surf trips in Taveuni include Matangi Private Island Resort, Qamea Resort & Spa, Tides Reach Resort and Maqai Beach Eco Resort. See more activities like this in the 10 Adult-Only Activities on Taveuni.

Location: See recommended resorts and their locations in the links above.

24. Sail to Honeymoon Island for a Beach Picnic

Looking for something utterly romantic to do in Taveuni? Discover one of Fiji’s most pristine cruising grounds on a sailing trip with Vacala Bay Resort. The five-star villa takes guests to Honeymoon Island for snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding in paradise. During the cruise, lounge with your loved one on the yacht’s expansive nets, sipping wine and taking in the mesmerising views. Alternatively, Taveuni Island Resort & Spa offers Honeymoon Island cruises for couples accompanied by a gourmet picnic hamper. See more like this in the 10 Romantic Activities in Taveuni.

Location: See recommended resorts in the links above.

25. Explore the Island, Beaches and Villages on Horseback

Taveuni is one of the rare places in Fiji where horse riding is readily available to explore the beaches, jungles and mountains. At Taveuni Palms Resort, join a local guide in Wiwi Village where your horse trek will take you some 305 m (1,000 ft) up a mountain with expansive views and the option to canter across the beach on the way back. The private island resort of Laucala Island has eight majestic Fijian horses for guests to explore the private island on. Horseback riding is also available at Tides Reach Resort, Vacala Bay Resort, Viani Bay Resort, and so much more!

Location: See recommended resorts for their locations. Otherwise, highlights are listed in the 10 Best Horse Riding Tours in Fiji.

More About Things to Do in Taveuni

That’s it for our guide to things to do in Taveuni, but for more information about this stunning Fijian island, check out the following articles:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in our Taveuni Travel Guide.

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:

Taveuni 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])
Taveuni Tourism Association (Regional tourism website)

Our editorial standards: At Fiji Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura (Lora) S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Fiji Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Fiji. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Fiji’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

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