Vanua Levu

About 160-km northeast off the shores Viti Levu is the second largest island, Vanua Levu. It is the second most populated island with major industries being coconut plantations (copra, the white part of the coconut), sugarcane and fishing. The island is popular for its reefs and scuba diving adventures, archeological sites, kayaking accessibility and hiking. The islands' beautiful countryside, vast irregular coastline and deep bays offer plenty of undiscovered terrain for traveller's to discover. The trip from Viti Levu to Vanua Levu is easy via the frequent air or ferry services. The island is largely undeveloped and supports for traveller's are quite limited in areas away from the main town centres of Savusavu and Labasa.

Savusavu
Situated in the deep bay waters of Savusavu Bay lies the second largest town of Vanua Levu, Savusavu. This hidden paradise is a destination not to be missed. There is a popular port a major stop for yachts and cruise ships alike with the harbour catering to bay cruises and fishing expeditions. The sunny skies and warm temperature makes it a year round destination. A major draw to Savusavu is the magnificent diving reefs around the Savusavu Bay entrance and along the reef towards Taveuni (the third largest island). The reefs have been tagged with names by local diving operations including 'Alice in Wonderland' and 'Big Blue' as only a few examples. It is easy to travel to Savusavu as it has an airstrip just outside of town and ferry services are plentiful. The Hibiscus Highway runs from the town east along the waters of the Kora Sea towards Taveuni. The drive is scenic and passes through villages, copra plantations and forests.

Backpacking accommodation is abundant here in Savusavu and is a good central location to begin your Vanua Levu adventure. Other highlights in close proximity to Savusavu include the natural thermal hot springs at Namale, the archeological site of Nakubolu and kayaking expeditions along Savusavu Bay.

Labasa Town
Labasa, the largest town on Vanua Levu is the located on the northwestern side and is 5km inland on the banks of the Labasa River. The area is primarily focused on the sugar industry with cane crops abundant in the area. The area serves as the administrative and business centre for Vanua Levu and is easily accessible via flights from the small airport outside of town and a regular bus service. The area offers some archeological sites to explore such as the Wasavula Ceremonial Site, the Labasa Sugar Mill and the Waiqele hot springs. Accommodation here in Labasa ranges from guesthouses to upper end hotels.

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