The Complete Travel Guide to Savusavu & Vanua Levu

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What to Do on Vanua Levu

Vanua Levu might be Fiji’s second-largest island, but it’s often overlooked by travellers. That’s good news for you! You’ll find uncrowded beaches, authentic Fijian villages, and lush rainforests just waiting to be explored. Get ready for an off-the-beaten-track adventure!

The Top Experiences on Vanua Levu

What are the must-dos? Here are some of the Vanua Levu highlights:

• Snorkel at the accessible yet breathtaking Split Rock
• Swim and experience cultural immersion at Vuadomo Waterfall and the Muanivatu Trails
• Witness the mysterious Sacred Red Prawns of Naweni
• See cooking demonstrations in the natural Nakama Hot Springs
• Kayak or river tube down the river to Salt Lake
• Scuba dive and see dolphins in Natewa Bay
• Try your hand at sport fishing in the Koro Sea
• Explore the vibrant coral gardens of the Namena Marine Reserve…

… And the list continues over in our 20 Best Things to Do on Vanua Levu and 101 Best Things to Do in Fiji: The Ultimate List.

Rainy Day Activities

Being a tropical island, it’s no secret that Vanua Levu gets its fair share of wet weather. Although we’d advise “just to get on with it”, as the rain often passes quickly and the hot climate with dry you off in no time, some indoor alternatives include:

• See crafting demonstrations at the Na i Soqasoqa Vakamarama i Taukei Cakaudrove Society
• Mingling with the locals at one of Vanua Levu’s markets
• Indulging in a spa day…

… And much more that we mention in the 15 Things to Do in Fiji on a Rainy Day.

Things to Do at Night

From partying at Savusavu and Labasa’s bars and nightclubs to relaxing as you watch the sunset from your resort, there are many ways to keep the holiday vibes fresh even after dark. Some things to do on Vanua Levu at night include:

• Delighting in some sundowners or party into the wee hours at Savusavu’s nightclubs and bars
• Join your resort for their weekly cocktail night and Fijian entertainment
• Watching the sunset from shore or a sunset cruise…

… And find more after-dark entertainment in the 10 Best Things to Do in Fiji at Night.

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Where to Stay on Vanua Levu

Aside from our top recommendations listed beside this complete travel guide to Vanua Levu (or below, if you’re reading this on mobile), we’ve compiled the best accommodations and resorts based on price, suitability for couples or families, as well as more upmarket offerings. What’s more, each article is written by real travel writers; not some dodgy algorithm!

• 20 Best Resorts
• 10 Best Self-Catering Accommodations
• 10 Best Holiday Homes
• 5 Best Adults-Only Resorts
• 20 Best Budget Accommodations
• 10 Best Luxury Resorts
• 10 Most Romantic Wedding & Honeymoon Resorts
• 10 Best Family Resorts & Accommodations

And for a comprehensive list, see the 25 Best Hotels & Places to Stay in Savusavu & Vanua Levu.

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Where to Eat on Vanua Levu

Experience Vanua Levu through its varied cuisine. The island has a strong Fijian and Indo-Fijian presence, offering two cultures with significant customs surrounding food. Experience them through food-related activities such as cooking classes, kava ceremonies, fishing or simply browsing the towns’ markets. Find out more in The Food Guide to Vanua Levu.

The Best Cafes and Restaurants on Vanua Levu

1. Captain’s Table (Copra Shed Marina, Savusavu)
2. Delhi6 (Lot 8 Nakama, Savusavu)
3. Nautical at Nawi (Nawi Island, Savusavu)
4. Planter’s Club (Lesiaceva Road, Savusavu)
5. Urata Lookout Cafe (Cross Island Road, Urata)

See the complete listing of our top dining recommendations in the 10 Best Restaurants on Vanua Levu.

Things to Do on Vanua Levu for Foodies

• Learn how to make chocolate on the KokoMana chocolate factory tour
• Indulge in a traditional Fijian lovo
• Mingle with the locals at the Savusavu and Labasa markets
• Take part in a Fijian or Indo-Fijian cooking class
• Learn about traditional medicinal plants on a medicine walk

And if that hasn’t made your mouth water enough, then check out our 10 Things to Do on Vanua Levu for Foodies.

Dining at Resorts

For most resort restaurants, due to their often remote locations and/or eagerness to reduce food waste, meals are often set each day. There are sometimes a couple of options for each course where guests are often asked to make their order in the morning at breakfast for the day’s meals.

Self-Catering on Vanua Levu

Vanual Levu has several options for large supermarkets in both Savusavu and Labasa, as well as many smaller convenience stores. These are typically stocked with a mix of local and imported brands from New Zealand and Australia, as well as local fruit and vegetables. Produce can also be purchased from roadside stalls and markets in Savusavu and Labasa.

See a full list of the largest grocery stores, as well as other useful services such as banks and WiFi hotspots in our guide, Information, Shops & Services on Vanua Levu.

Prices are similar to supermarkets in New Zealand but more expensive than what you might experience in Australia and the US. See typical grocery prices in The Cost of Food in Fiji: Restaurant & Grocery Prices, as well as more advice for self-catering in A Guide to Supermarkets & Food Shopping in Fiji.

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Luxury Holidays on Vanua Levu

If you’re looking for secluded luxury on one of Fiji’s lesser-known islands then you’ve found the place. Vanua Levu is home to some of Fiji’s most luxurious spas, dazzling helicopter flights and top scuba diving sites such as Rainbow Reef, Namena Marine Reserve and the White Wall. Combine these experiences with a private flight onto the island and staying in one of the all-inclusive resorts, and you’re in for an extra special vacation. Get more advice in The Luxury Guide to Vanua Levu.

Luxury Activities on Vanua Levu

• Scuba dive at world-famous dive sites, such as Rainbow Reef and the Namena Marine Reserve
• Treat her to a private dinner in a candlelit sea cave
• Experience an exciting sports fishing trip
• Rejuvenate with a Fijian Bobo massage
• Join a catamaran sailing charter, Pirates Paradise.

Like the sound of those? See more “spoil yourself” experiences in our list of 10 Luxury Activities on Vanua Levu.

Where to Stay in Luxury on Vanua Levu

While Vanua Levu might have fewer luxury offerings than Fiji’s other islands, some of the country’s most prestigious addresses are here. Experience all-inclusive luxury, private island resorts and more at the 10 Best Luxury Resorts on Vanua Levu.

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Budget Holidays on Vanua Levu

For backpackers wanting to really travel around Fiji, Vanua Levu is a must! With a wealth of free or cheap sights and attractions to see around the island, from inland waterfalls to hot springs and Fijian villages, there really is a lot to uncover here. What’s more, the affordable hotels, guest houses and homestays make staying on Vanua Levu on the cheap extremely easy. Start planning with The Guide to Vanua Levu on a Budget.

Things to Do on Vanua Levu on a Budget

• Snorkel among vibrant coral and fish at Split Rock or Rainbow Reef
• Visit the Vuadomo Village & Waterfall
• See a beautiful garden display at the Flora Tropica Garden
• Seek out the island’s hot springs
• Embark on a journey to the Sacred Red Prawns of Naweni.

For more inspiration, check out our 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do on Vanua Levu.

Where to Stay on Vanua Levu on a Budget

A wide range of affordable accommodations is available on Vanua Levu, from budget resorts to humble guesthouses. Discover some of the best in our 10 Best Budget Accommodations on Vanua Levu. You can also find cheap holiday homes on our list of 10 Best Holiday Homes on Vanua Levu.

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Family Holidays on Vanua Levu

On an island with a rich culture and marine biodiversity, Vanua Levu provides a Fiji holiday that’s educational and meaningful for children and adults alike. The best way to get your kids involved is on the two kids’ clubs on the island. Otherwise, there are plenty of ways for families to adventure together, from village visits to snorkelling. Find out more in The Guide to Vanua Levu for Families.

Family Activities on Vanua Levu

• Enjoy an educational visit to a Fijian village
• Craft your own Fijian souvenirs
• Watch dolphins and snorkel on a dolphin cruise
• Take the kids to one of the fun and educational kids’ clubs
• Get out on the kayaks or paddleboats.

And the list goes on! Check it out in our 10 Things to Do on Vanua Levu with Kids.

Where to Stay on Vanua Levu

Check out the best resorts on Vanua Levu with family rooms, kids’ clubs and activities suitable for children in 10 Best Family Resorts on Vanua Levu.

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Adult-Only Holidays on Vanua Levu

Paradise can easily be found without children here on Vanua Levu. With a range of boutique resorts catering to couples and exclusive adult-only five-star resorts, you’re sure to get your privacy and set the tone right for a romantic or timeout vacation in Fiji. Get more advice in The Adults-Only Guide to Vanua Levu.

Adult-Only Activities on Vanua Levu

• Spend the day marooned on a sandbank with a Champagne picnic
• Make the most of your time together at your resort’s adults-only pool and bar
• Take part in a yoga or wellness retreat
• Escape the hustle and bustle on a nature walk
• Hit the bars and nightclubs of Savusavu and Labasa.

For more ideas and information on each activity, check out the 10 Adult-Only Activities on Vanua Levu.

Where to Stay on Vanua Levu for an Adults-Only Holiday

While there is only one exclusively adults-only resort on Vanua Levu, other resorts have adult-only beach clubs or cater specifically to couples. Check out our suggestions for an adult-only stay on Vanua Levu with 5 Best Adult-Only Resorts on Vanua Levu.

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Weddings and Honeymoons on Vanua Levu

On the island with pristine beaches nestled between lush waterfall-filled forests and crystal clear waters, how can you not choose Vanua Levu as a destination for romance? The seclusion of the island’s resorts enhances the tone, making Vanua Levu ideal for a wedding, honeymoon or romantic getaway. Start planning with The Romantic Getaway & Honeymoon Guide to Vanua Levu.

Things to Do on Vanua Levu for Couples

• Walk to the beautiful Vuadomo Waterfall
• Watch the ocean from a heart-shaped hot tub
• Indulge in a private dining experience
• Learn how to scuba dive together
• Float down the Salt River to Salt Lake.

So make your special time away together truly special with these 10 Romantic Activities on Vanua Levu. Plus, check out the 5 Best Wedding Packages on Vanua Levu.

Where to Stay on Vanua Levu for Couples

Whether you’re seeking a base for a romantic getaway, renewing your vows or starting the rest of your lives together, we list your best options in our 10 Best Honeymoon Resorts on Vanua Levu.