Savusavu — The Hidden Pearl

Savusavu is located on the sheltered south coast of Vanua Levu and is considered Fiji's best-kept secret. The sleepy town on the deep blue Savusavu Harbour is the opposite of Nadi: no resort strips, no mass tourism — instead, a charming harbor town surrounded by lush hills, copra plantations, and hot springs.

Hot Springs

Right on the harbor shore — in the middle of town! — the hot springs of Savusavu steam. Locals actually cook eggs here and wrap food in banana leaves to steam. A surreal sight and a sign of volcanic activity beneath the surface. The springs are freely accessible.

Copra Shed Marina

The heart of Savusavu is the Copra Shed Marina — a former copra factory (coconut drying), converted into a charming dock with restaurants, cafes, dive centers, and boutiques. Sailboats from all over the world dock here — Savusavu is a popular port for circumnavigators. The Surf & Turf Restaurant in the marina serves the best seafood in the region.

J. Hunter Pearls

Savusavu is home to Fiji's only pearl farm. J. Hunter Pearls cultivates the rare Fiji pearls in the nutrient-rich waters of Savusavu Bay. A tour of the farm shows the cultivation process, and in the showroom, you can purchase loose pearls and jewelry — directly from the producer, at prices well below international market value.

Waisali Rainforest Reserve

About 30 minutes south of Savusavu lies the Waisali Rainforest Reserve — a protected piece of Vanua Levu's last untouched lowland rainforest. Trails lead through the forest to a waterfall, past mighty tree ferns, orchids, and the Fiji Crested Iguana (one of the rarest lizards in the world). Entry: approx. 20 FJD.