10 Things to Do in Kadavu for Yachties

Last Updated: 25 June, 2025

The Top Activities While Sailing in Kadavu

Kadavu, a remote gem in the southern Fiji archipelago, offers a pristine paradise that’s perfect for seafaring adventurers. This unspoiled island is a haven from modern-day worries, dotted with traditional Fijian villages, lush tropical forests, and surrounded by vibrant coral reefs.

The crowning jewel of Kadavu is the Great Astrolabe Reef, the world’s fourth-longest barrier reef, offering sensational diving, surfing, and outrigger kayaking opportunities that will make any sailor’s heart skip a beat.

Most activities on Kadavu are organised through the island’s resorts, so be sure to inquire with your chosen anchorage about available adventures.

And with that, let’s chart your course through this yachtie’s dream with our list of the best things to do in Kadavu!

For more Kadavu advice, don’t miss The Complete Sailing Guide to Kadavu.

1. Scuba Dive in the Great Astrolabe Reef

Any keen scuba diver will know Kadavu as one of the best diving locations in Fiji, thanks to the incredible Great Astrolabe Reef. Spanning some 65 km (40 miles) from Central Kadavu up past Ono Island, the Great Astrolabe Reef is the world’s fourth-largest barrier reef.

Needless to say, it contains a wealth of exciting wildlife, from reef sharks to turtles, hard coral to soft coral.

While dives are available at all resorts, PADI dive courses are available with Kokomo Private Island, Papageno Resort and Matava Eco Adventure Resort should you want to take your diving further. All of these resorts have suitable conditions for anchorages just offshore.

For a taste of what scuba diving is like on the Great Astrolabe Reef, take a look at The Best Dive Sites in Kadavu.

Location: Great Astrolabe Reef, Kadavu, Kadavu Group. Stretching from the south coast of Kadavu to Ono Island.

2. Walk to One of Kadavu’s Exciting Waterfalls

With volcanic islands topped by lush rainforests, Kadavu has no shortage of picturesque waterfalls.

Some resorts have at least one waterfall only a short walk away, whether it’s the Papageno Resort‘s 3.5 km (2 mi) walk to Malawai Falls or the 45-minute guided hike to a waterfall from Matava Eco Adventure Resort.

Where there isn’t a waterfall to walk to, resorts offer boat trips to some of Kadavu’s best. For instance, Oneta Resort and Tiliva Resort offer boat trips through mangrove forests to a 9 m (30 ft) waterfall tumbling off a volcanic ridge.

See more like this in the 10 Free & Cheap Things To Do in Kadavu.

Location: Various locations across Kadavu Island. Specific waterfalls are accessible from different resorts on the island.

3. Hit Kadavu’s Epic Surf Breaks

A must-do for keen surfers, Kadavu has some of the most uncrowded breaks in Fiji. Hit the famous King Kong Left, which reaches up to heights of 8 ft (3 m) or Kadavu’s most consistent break, Typhoon Ally.

Needless to say, the surf breaks around Kadavu are not for the faint of heart and must only be tackled by intermediates to experts.

Surf trips can be organised, including board rentals, from Kokomo Private Island, about a 45-90 minute boat ride from the breaks.

Otherwise, you’ll find anchorage inside the lagoon close to the Soso Passage, on Kadavu’s southeast coast, where you can take your dinghy out to the reef breaks (pictured).

Get more advice in The Complete Guide to Surfing in Fiji.

Location: Kadavu, Kadavu Group, Southern Fiji. Accessible from various resorts on Kadavu Island.

4. Look Out for Kadavu’s Unique Birds

Watching the colourful array of island birds is just another way to relax and immerse in nature here in Kadavu, where some bird species are only found in this part of Fiji.

Keep an eye out for the Kadavu fantail, Kadavu honeyeater, velvet dove and the Kadavu shining parrot! On top of that, it’s possible to see an array of native species, from the Fiji goshawk to the collared lory.

While most resorts will be able to point you in the right direction for the best birdwatching in the area, the Matava Eco Adventure Resort is particularly incredible for watching birds, regularly seen on the grounds.

Location: Matava Resort, southeast coast of Kadavu. Various locations around the island.

5. Embark on a Full Kayaking Adventure with Tamarillo Active Travel

While getting on the water may be nothing new to you, Tamarillo Active Travel‘s kayaking adventure in Kadavu offers a unique cultural experience and local guidance that’s well worth your time. Experience Kadavu at a more natural pace as you paddle through the stunning waters surrounding the island.

Either anchor near Tamarillo’s home base or meet the team at Matava, Oneta, and Papageno resorts for a range of thrilling trip options. Whether you fancy a day trip, an overnight village excursion, or a multi-day paddle staying in different resorts, Tamarillo has got you covered.

You’ll love the refreshments on offer – sip on fresh coconuts and indulge in traditional Fijian lunches. Imagine savouring baked coconut milk cassava wrapped in coconut leaves, along with tasty dishes featuring taro, pumpkin, curries, and baked bele (Fijian spinach).

Don’t forget to pack your reef shoes, mask and snorkel!

Location: Tamarillo Active Travel Base – -19.04472716250198, 178.41047419610885.

Alternatively, departs from Matava, Oneta and Papageno resorts.

6. Experience Some of the Best Snorkelling in Fiji

Luckily for you, Kadavu’s waters offer some of the most spectacular snorkelling in Fiji, perfect for a leisurely dip or an adventurous exploration. As you approach a sheltered reef, grab your gear and dive right in! It’s well worth exploring the outer reefs, where the coral displays rival even scuba diving experiences.

For those seeking more excitement, resorts can whisk you to the most stunning coral reefs where you might spot grey reef and white-tip sharks gliding by. Keep your eyes peeled for elusive seahorses if you’re a quiet freediver.

From June to October, you can even swim with magnificent manta rays, which average 3 m (10 ft) across. Join Kokomo Private Island or Matava Eco Adventure Resort for unforgettable manta encounters.

Location: Various snorkelling spots around Kadavu Island. All resorts offer transport and knowledge of prime snorkelling locations.

We also list some sites in the 10 Best Dive & Snorkel Sites on the Great Astrolabe Reef.

7. Relax With a Spa Day

Whether you’re a yacht enthusiast or a land-loving traveller, a spa day is the perfect way to unwind in Kadavu.

Nearly all resorts on the island boast their own spas, offering a range of treatments from facial massages to full-body deep-tissue experiences.

We recommend trying the traditional Fijian massage, where skilled masseuses use expert footwork to melt away tension. It’s an ideal activity before setting sail for your next destination.

For a glimpse into the romantic side of Kadavu’s spa offerings, check out our 10 Romantic Activities in Kadavu.

Location: Various resorts, Kadavu. See the link above for recommendations.

8. Visit a Fijian Village

For yachties seeking an authentic cultural experience, exploring Fiji’s rich traditions in a local village is a must. You can either drop anchor and venture ashore independently (don’t forget your sevusevu offering!) or arrange visits through nearby resorts.

Immerse yourself in village life by visiting schools, witnessing the captivating “meke” traditional dance, and participating in a kava ceremony. This earthy drink, made from kava roots, leaves a subtle tingle in your mouth and is an integral part of Fijian hospitality.

For a truly moving experience, time your visit to coincide with a Sunday church service and be swept away by the harmonious songs and warm atmosphere.

Before weighing anchor, brush up on local customs with our Guide to Fijian Village Etiquette.

Location: Various villages across Kadavu.

9. Browse the Vunisea Market

For a slice of authentic island life and wallet-friendly shopping on Kadavu, make your way to the vibrant Vunisea Market. This bustling marketplace is the beating heart of commerce on the island, offering a fantastic opportunity to mingle with friendly locals and sample delicious Fijian produce.

As you wander through the market, you’ll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colours from the array of fresh fruits and vegetables on display. The air is filled with the enticing aromas of home-cooked Fijian meals, available at pocket-friendly prices from the smiling vendors inside the market building.

But the Vunisea Market isn’t just about food. It’s also a treasure trove of handmade crafts that make for perfect souvenirs. Keep your eyes peeled for intricately woven baskets, vibrant sarongs and unique shell jewellery.

By purchasing these locally-made items, you’re not just taking home a memento of your Fijian adventure – you’re also supporting the island’s talented artisans.

Location: Vunisea waterfront main road, Vunisea. Carrier drivers and locals can point you in the right direction if needed.

10. Witness a Turtle Calling Ceremony or Walk to a Waterfall from Namuana Village

Kadavu’s villages have their own distinct cultures, especially in the village of Namuana near Vunisea.

The village on the edge of the pretty Namalata Bay performs an occasional turtle calling ceremony. It’s said that two maidens are lost at sea and are only summoned to the surface if the local women chant.

If you don’t manage to see a turtle calling ceremony, then at least you can walk a 20-minute trail to the top of a hill behind the village, offering amazing vistas before continuing to Waikana Falls. Ask locals for directions.

See more village excursions in The Best Day Trips on Kadavu.

Location: Namuana Village, near Vunisea. Located on the eastern coast of Kadavu Island.

More About Kadavu for Yachties

That’s it for things to do in Kadavu for yachties; for more information about Fiji’s southernmost island, check out the following articles:

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

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:

Tourism Fiji (General travel 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])
Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (Tourism statistics - Updated [2025])
SPTO (Pacific tourism 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])
SV Soggy Paws (Sailing resource for the South Pacific)
Ocean Posse (Mooring data for the South Pacific)

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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