Information
Landmark: Lavena Coastal WalkCity: Taveuni
Country: Fiji
Continent: Australia
Lavena Coastal Walk, Taveuni, Fiji, Australia
Lavena Coastal Walk is a 10km return trail situated within the Bouma National Heritage Park on the eastern coast of Taveuni. It traverses several distinct ecological zones, including white sand beaches, volcanic black sand beaches, and dense rainforest.
Visual Characteristics
The trail follows the island's coastline, alternating between open shorelines and shaded forest corridors. Key visual markers include the Wainibau River, high coastal cliffs, and a suspension bridge crossing. The terminus features the Wainibau Falls, a secluded waterfall emptying into a deep rock pool.
Location & Access Logistics
The walk begins at Lavena Village, where a visitor center manages entry and provides information.
Access: Entry requires a park fee. The trail is well-maintained and largely flat, following the natural contour of the coast.
Transit: Accessible from Matei Airport (approx. 25km) via the coastal road. Public buses and taxis from the Matei/Somosomo area service the village.
Duration: Approximately 3–4 hours for the round trip, depending on pace and swimming duration.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Visitor Center: Located at the trail-head in Lavena Village; provides restrooms, orientation, and maps.
Lavena Lodge: Offers basic accommodation for visitors wishing to stay in the village.
Path Condition: The first half of the walk is on flat sand and grass; the second half involves slightly more rugged terrain through forest and over the Wainibau River.
Connectivity: Cellular signal is unreliable once the trail enters the forest sections.
Key Highlights
Wainibau Falls: The final destination; accessible by swimming through a narrow rock gorge to reach the base of the falls.
Suspension Bridge: A pedestrian bridge crossing the Wainibau River.
Biodiversity: Observation of local bird species and diverse tropical vegetation is common along the forested segments.
Nearby Landmarks
Lavena Village: 0.1km East (trail-head)
Bouma National Heritage Park: 8.0km North
Tavoro Waterfalls: 8.5km North
Matei Airport: 25.0km West