Vanua Levu, the second largest island in Fiji, is part of what is known as the 'friendly North' a reputation that has arisen from the warmth and hospitality afforded by the Fijian villagers in this region. The northern (dry) side of the island is rich with sugar plantations and small Indian communities whilst the south-eastern (wetter) side of the island is blessed with lush rainforest and a craggy reef edged coastline with sandy bays and the occasional blowhole.
What to see and do ...
The main tourist centre of Vanua Levu is Savusavu, whose natural harbour - Savusavu bay - has made it a popular port for those sailing through the islands. Gamefishing is another popular activity and charters may be arranged. Guided walks and kayaking tours, plus excellent scuba diving, make this a popular eco-tourist destination.
Accommodation ranges from budget to luxury, and you are sure to find something to suit your style.
Most of the tourist activity is around the Savusavu area, though there is some good accommodation to be found in the business centre of Labasa in the north, as well as a few good offshore island resorts.
A popular drive runs from Savusavu eastward to Buca Bay, from where a small ferry connects with Taveuni. Several small resorts and villas are found along this route. Lomalagi (Fijian for 'heaven') Resort, an adults only resort perched on the clifftops overlooking Natewa Bay is a popular honeymoon destination. Nateway Bay is said to be the largest bay in the Southern hemisphere and the views are incredible.
Offshore from Buca Bay are the small islands of Kioa and Rabi. Tourist accommodation is not found on these islands, both of which are culturally significant, but permission may be sought to visit. Rabi was settled by Banaban Islanders from Kiribati when they lost their own island to phosphate mining in the 1940s and Kioa was bought by the Tuvaluan government in 1946 to resettle their growing population (Polynesian). The lifestyle and culture of the people on both islands is quite different to that of other parts of Fiji.
Getting There
Both Savusavu and Labasa have active air strips, with regular scheduled flights from both Suva and Nadi and connect also with Taveuni to the south east.
A large passenger ferry sails twice a week from Suva to Savusavu and return with one trip to Taveuni and one to Natovi. Or travel on board Fiji's newest High Speed 'Magic Carpet Catamaran, 'LAGILAGI'
to Savusavu from Port Denarau (Nadi) via Beachcomber Island and Lautoka. Operates two trips a week.
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