Ovalau Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in Ovalau, Melanesia, Fiji with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Ovalau

Ovalau is a small island in the Lomaiviti Group of Fiji, located in Melanesia, Oceania. The island is surrounded by pristine waters, magnificent reefs, and boasts a rich history and culture. Its small size and proximity to Viti Levu, Fiji’s major island, make it a perfect addition to any Fiji itinerary.

List of Places to Visit in Ovalau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Levuka Historical Port Town: Fiji’s former capital and the first colonial town in the country, Levuka, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features a unique mix of colonial and traditional architecture.
  • Royal Hotel Levuka: One of the oldest operational hotels in the South Pacific, built-in 1844, and a historical landmark.
  • The Ovalau Club: A colonial-era privatized social club with a rich history and still operates in Ovalau.
  • Mango Bay Resort: A beautiful resort, perfect for a day of relaxation and a great base to explore the neighboring areas.

Natural Attractions of Ovalau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ketei Bay: A stunning, secluded beach with some of the most pristine waters in the area, popular for swimming and snorkeling.
  • Nasau Park Waterfall: Located in the interior of the island, this beautiful waterfall is situated within a nature reserve. Surrounded by lush rainforest, you can take a dip in the cool waters of the waterfall pool.
  • Nabukelevu Peak: The highest point in Ovalau and worth the trek, with panoramic views of the island and surrounding waters.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ovalau

  • Levuka Historical Walk: A self-guided walking tour that takes you through the historic streets of Levuka, passing by important historical landmarks and monuments.
  • Nasau Park Trail: A jungle trail leading to the beautiful Nasau Park Waterfall.
  • Nabukelevu Peak Trek: For the adventure-seekers, take the challenging trek to the summit of Ovalau’s highest peak for breathtaking views.

Best Things to Do in Ovalau: Activities and Tours

  • Island Hopping: Take a boat tour to neighboring islands such as Gau, Koro, and Batiki for a day of island adventures.
  • Scuba Diving/Snorkeling: Ovalau is surrounded by a magnificent reef, ideal for scuba diving or snorkeling. You can explore beautiful coral gardens and swim with stunning marine life.
  • Cultural Experience: Get a glimpse into the island’s local customs and traditions by attending one of the cultural shows or visiting one of the village communities.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ovalau

| Day | Activity | | — | — | | Day 1 | Arrival, settle into accommodation, explore Levuka town | | Day 2 | Nasau Park Trek and Waterfall Swim | | Day 3 | Beach day at Ketei Bay | | Day 4 | Scuba Diving/Snorkeling Excursion to nearby reefs | | Day 5 | Cultural Experience at a local village, enjoy a Lovo feast | | Day 6 | Nabukelevu Peak Trek | | Day 7 | Departure Day |

Food and Drink Scene of Ovalau

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lovo: A Fijian style earth oven where food is cooked on hot stones.
  • Kokoda: Local raw fish dish, usually served with lime juice, coconut milk, and chili.
  • Fijian Curry: Unique style of curry with Indian and Fijian influences.

Local Beverages

  • Kava: Traditional Fijian drink made from the kava root, known for its relaxing properties.
  • Cava: Coconut milk-based drink served with a range of tropical fruits

Where to Stay in Ovalau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • The Royal Hotel Levuka: One of the oldest colonial hotels in the South Pacific, with a rich history and central location in town.
  • Ovalau Holiday Resort: The only resort on the island, situated on the stunning Likuri Bay.
  • Noble’s Guest House: A cozy and welcoming guesthouse with stunning views of the bay.

What to Buy in Ovalau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Tapa Cloth: Handmade cloth made from the inner bark of mulberry trees, depicting traditional Fijian motifs.
  • Kava Bowls: Wooden bowls, usually carved with traditional and intricate Fijian designs.
  • Fijian Sarongs: Known as Sulu, these brightly colored pieces of cloth are worn by both men and women and make a perfect souvenir or gift item.

Local Culture and Customs of Ovalau

The local customs and traditions of Fijian people are deeply ingrained in their daily lives. Visitors should be respectful of the local culture and follow some common customs such as:

  • Removing shoes before entering a home or religious site.
  • Kava drinking is a traditional Fijian custom; it is essential to understand the traditional procedures and protocols.
  • Dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Ovalau

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to November. The temperatures are slightly cooler, and the skies are generally clear. December to April is the wet season, with high humidity and occasional cyclones.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ovalau

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
  • Take part in the traditional Kava ceremonies.

Don’t:

  • Don’t enter a village or a home without permission.
  • Don’t litter or damage the coral reefs or wildlife.
  • Don’t touch anyone’s head; it is a sign of disrespect in Fijian culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ovalau

While crime rates are low in Ovalau, visitors should take necessary precautions and keep their belongings safe. It is advisable not to venture alone at night in poorly lit areas or leave valuables unattended.

Health in Ovalau

Visitors should take necessary precautions and consult a health professional before traveling to Fiji. Mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever are prevalent in Fiji, and visitors should take necessary steps such as wearing long-sleeved clothes, using mosquito repellent, and using mosquito nets while sleeping.

Getting to Ovalau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ovalau

The nearest airport to Ovalau is the Suva Nausori International Airport. You can take a local domestic flight to Levuka Airport from Suva Airport, which takes around 25 minutes.

Bus Stations Near Ovalau

There are no bus stations in Ovalau. Visitors can take a bus or a taxi to the port of Suva and catch a ferry to Levuka.

Other Options

Visitors can also take seaplane transport to Ovalau from either Suva or Nadi International Airport.

How to Get Around in Ovalau

Ovalau is a small island, and it is easy to get around on foot, by bicycle or with a rental car. Taxis are also available, and visitors can rent a taxi for a day or for the duration of their stay.

Where to Go Next from Ovalau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Gau Island: Gau is a neighboring island, known for its unique birdlife, lush rainforests, and coral reefs.
  • Koro Island: One of the most beautiful islands in Fiji, Koro is situated in the Lomaiviti Archipelago and is known for its colorful coral gardens, tropical beaches, and stunning marine life.
  • Batiki Island: Batiki is a small island located in the center of the Lomaiviti Islands, known for its untouched beauty, crystal-clear waters, and stunning coral reefs.

Conclusion

Ovalau is a hidden gem in Fiji, with its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and traditional Fijian culture. Visitors can explore the island’s unique history, indulge in outdoor adventures, and experience the warm hospitality of the Fijian people. With its proximity to major cities, it is a perfect addition to any Fiji itinerary.

Lovoni Village Lovoni Village


    Arovudi