Savusavu is a charming yacht town located on the south coast of Vanua Levu, the second largest island in Fiji. Savusavu is known as the “Hidden Paradise” by locals throughout Fiji and revered for its scenic, wild beauty and warm hospitality. The town is a popular destination for global travelers who want to experience the authentic Fijian lifestyle and enjoy a tropical getaway in a more remote setting. Board your island hopper flight at Nadi International Airport and arrive in the luscious terrain of Northern Fiji. If you are looking for fun things to do in Savusavu, check out our recommendations below.
1. Hike to a Nearby Waterfall
Savusavu is home to a number of stunning natural waterfalls. Hiking to one of these falls is a great way to explore the wild rainforests on Vanua Levu. Just a 20-minute drive west of Savusavu is the most accessible waterfall in the area, Vuadomo. Here you’ll be greeted by a magnificent cascade pouring into a wide pool of water, an idyllic spot for a cool swim. If you’re craving a more adventurous, wandering hike, check out Waisali Rainforest Reserve. Waisali Rainforest Reserve has several hiking trails nestled in the mountains of north Savusavu. Hiking along this 120-acre reserve is a wonderful opportunity to see the local flora and fauna. While exploring the lush landscape, you’re bound to spot one of the 14 rare bird species. Look out for the red-breasted musk parrot or the beautiful orange dove.
2. Go Scuba Diving or Snorkeling
Savusavu is lucky to be near some of the best diving spots in Fiji, including the remarkable Rainbow Reef in the Somosomo Strait (a passage between Vanua Levu and Taveuni). The surrounding waters are home to a diverse range of marine life. The underwater landscape of Savusavu entails colorful coral, tropical fish, and even larger sea creatures like sharks, dolphins and manta rays. There are several dive operators in town that offer world-class scuba diving and snorkeling tours. Ask us about our scuba diving package with Cousteau Resort or a trip to Natewa Bay with Ocean Ventures, one of the many great diving operators in Savusavu, Fiji. Ocean Ventures offers scuba diving, snorkeling, and coral conservation experiences in the beautiful Natewa Bay on Vanua Levu in Fiji.
3. Take an Island Yoga Class
Reconnect with your inner islander through movement and mindfulness in a rejuvenating yoga class. Some resorts in Savusavu, like Tavola Fiji, have yoga equipment and guided video classes available to use at your leisure. At Tavola Villa, you can indulge in “island time” and enjoy a spontaneous yoga session at any time of day. Bring our yoga mats, blocks or blankets out to the entertainment deck or to the top field for panoramic ocean views. If you prefer more structure, check out a local, in-person yoga class. Daku Resort offers a range of drop-in yoga classes where you can practice alongside other Savusavu yogis of all levels. Check out yoga classes and other courses here.
4. Take a trip to the Local Farmer’s Market
The local farmer’s markets are a bustling place to experience local culture and sample many flavors, from fresh herbs to obscure produce that is at the heart of Fijian cuisine. The Savusavu Farmer’s Market is located in the center of town and easily accessible by taxi. Open every day except Sunday, the Savusavu Farmers’ Market has everything from organic fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Here you’ll meet the people that make up the heart and soul of Savusavu. Visiting the local market is a great way to meet the community and possibly even get local insight on more things to do in Savusavu.
5. Catch the Fish of Your Dreams
Explore the pristine waters in Savusavu Bay with a Fiji fishing trip. Charter a boat with a local captain and discover the abundance of exotic fish species that live in Fiji’s untouched reefs. Whether it’s deep sea fishing, top water fishing, or spearfishing – Savusavu has it all. Check out one of Savusavu’s top-rated fishing charters, Immersion Fiji which offers a range of sustainable and exhilarating fishing excursions. Some resorts in Savusavu, like Tavola Fiji, offer captained fishing excursions and will allow you to bring home your catch-of-the-day. So, you can enjoy a fresh sea-to-table meal. At Tavola, Captain Jack will take you out for an early morning troll.
6. Picnic at The Blue Lagoon
A picnic on the Blue Lagoon is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Savusavu. Just 20 kilometers outside of Savusavu are the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. Stroll along the shores of Devodara Beach, then find a spot to settle in for a day of sunbathing. The beach is dotted with shady trees, so it’s cool enough to lay out a picnic blanket. Crack open a cold Fiji beer and enjoy lunch with a breathtaking view. When the tide goes out, the calm, buoyant salt waters of the lagoon open up for a refreshing float. Be sure to bring a swimsuit and your snorkel gear along with your picnic basket! Most resorts in Savusavu, like Koko or Tavola Fiji, provide guided day trips to the Blue Lagoon. It’s as seamless as can be.
7. Visit the Volcanic Hot Springs
Savusavu is home to one of the few remaining natural hot springs in Fiji. Located in the center of Savusavu, at the end of a scenic drive through lush tropical rainforests, are the Nakama Hot Springs. Thanks to funding in recent years, much has been done to preserve these hot springs and keep them functioning as nature’s cauldron. On a trip to the hot springs, you can learn about the geological origin of this natural wonder and watch the locals cook food in the hot springs’ simmering volcanic activity. The hot springs are free to visit, however, you can also hire a local guide to take you to the more secluded and peaceful areas.
8. Try the Local Cuisine
There are several local restaurants in Savusavu that serve up traditional dishes that will melt your taste buds. Fijian cuisine is a fusion of Indian, Chinese, and Polynesian flavors. Two of the most popular Fijian dishes are Kokoda and Lovo. Prepared with local seafood, kokoda (called ceviche in other parts of the world) is a raw fish salad marinated in coconut cream and lemon juice.
Make a reservation at Daku Resort Restaurant to try some of Savusavu’s top-rated Kokoda. Lovo, on the other hand, is a traditional Fijiian dish that involves cooking meat, fish, and vegetables in an underground oven. Try out the “traditional Lovo feast” at Tavola Villa or over at Koro Sun Resort Restaurant. No matter where you dine in Savusavu, you can’t go wrong with ordering locally caught, fresh seafood. Treat yourself to what the locals consider to be the town’s best seafood at Surf And Turf. If you’re looking for a dining experience complimented with entertainment, check out live music nights at Vaga Gardens. Enjoy a delicious pizza with Fijjian flavors, while jamming out to a local band at this Savusavu hidden gem.
There are so many activities in Savusavu to choose from. With an endless amount of tropical exploration, you’ll never run out of things to do in Savusavu, Fiji.
