Photo credit: Mark Zable
Fiji’s Best Kept Secret
When you hear the word “Fiji,” most people picture soft sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and hammocks swaying under palm trees. And while that’s true, Fiji has so much more—especially when it comes to Taveuni, affectionately nicknamed The Garden Island.
The first time I set foot here, I realised why travellers fall in love immediately: waterfalls everywhere, flowers blooming in stunning colours, and locals welcoming you with a warmth that makes you feel like family. But beyond its beauty, Taveuni is filled with quirky, surprising, and downright fun facts that make it one of the most fascinating islands in Fiji.
It’s Yesterday and Today
Fun Fact: Taveuni is bisected by the 180th Meridian, the imaginary line that separates today from tomorrow. That means you can literally stand with one foot in “today” and the other in “yesterday.”
Few places in the world offer this extraordinary experience, and Taveuni locals will happily point out where to try it.
Waterfalls Everywhere
Fun Fact: If you’re a waterfall chaser, Taveuni is your dream island.
The Bouma National Heritage Park alone has three spectacular cascades, each with its own swimming pool.
There is a lookout that offers spectacular views of the nearby islands.
Locals often bring picnics here, and after a hot jungle hike, there’s nothing like plunging into cool freshwater surrounded by rainforest.
It’s a Scuba Divers Paradise
Photo Credit: Mark Zable
Fun Fact: Marine biologists estimate that the Rainbow Reef alone holds over 300 species of corals and 1,200 species of fish.
Taveuni isn’t just beautiful on land—it’s one of the best dive spots in the world. The Somosomo Strait is home to the legendary Rainbow Reef.
And yes, the name is spot-on: corals here blaze with every colour imaginable, and divers swim through the “Great White Wall,” where soft corals glow lavender and white under the ocean current.
An Epic Rock Waterslide
Fun Fact: Locals love showing visitors a natural waterslide near Waiyevo – Waitavala Waterslide. Smooth volcanic rocks funnel cool stream water into a fun slide you can actually ride down!
It’s both exhilarating and hilarious—everyone ends up laughing as they splash into the pool at the bottom.
It is easy to find and well worth the effort to experience a fun way to cool off in the Fiji sun.
Small But Mighty
Taveuni is only about 42 km (26 miles) long and 12 km (7 miles) wide, but it packs in so much variety that you’ll never get bored.
From hidden waterfalls to world-class diving, friendly villages, and epic hikes, this small island offers the “real Fiji” experience—away from the crowds of the main tourist hubs.
Birdwatcher’s Dream
Did you know that Taveuni is a birdwatcher’s paradise? Over 100 species of birds live here, including some that can only be found in Fiji.
The rare Orange Dove—nicknamed the Flame Dove—glows like a flying ember. Bird enthusiasts travel across the globe just to catch a glimpse.
The Adventure Begins in the Air
Unlike the larger islands, Taveuni doesn’t have a massive airport. You’ll likely take a small plane from Nadi or Suva.
The flights are short (around an hour), but the views are worth it—coral reefs, scattered islets, and deep blue ocean as far as you can see. Enjoy your small plane with the BIG views.
Fiji’s Most Scenic Trail
If you love combining adventure with natural beauty, the Lavena Coastal Walk is a must. This five-kilometre trail winds along Taveuni’s southeastern coastline, offering breathtaking contrasts—black and white sand beaches, jungle-clad hills, and the sound of crashing surf. Along the way, you’ll pass through small villages where friendly locals often greet hikers with a warm “Bula!”.
The highlight? A stunning double waterfall at the end of the trail where you can swim in the cool, freshwater pools. It’s an experience that feels both off-the-beaten-path and deeply authentic.
Taveuni – More Than Just an Island
Taveuni is the kind of place that feels like a secret—untouched, natural, and bursting with charm. It’s where you can swim under waterfalls in the morning, cross the International Date Line at lunch, and dive into Rainbow Reef by afternoon.
But beyond its landscapes, it’s the people, stories, and culture that stay with you long after you’ve left. For me, Taveuni isn’t just “The Garden Island”—it’s a living, breathing paradise that makes time feel richer, and life feel a little more magical.
So if you’re dreaming of Fiji, make sure Taveuni is on your list. And when you go, don’t be surprised if it steals your heart too. 🌺