Sawa-I-Lau Caves (Yasawa Islands) Tour Fiji

5 (5 Reviews)
Sawa-i-Lau Island, Fiji
From: $1,000
5
(5 reviews)
Check
Duration

6hr

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

19 people

Languages

___

About this tour

Venture to one of Fiji’s most mystical attractions with our Sawa-i-Lau Cave Tour, located in the northern Yasawa Islands. Often called the “Blue Lagoon caves,” these ancient limestone caverns are a highlight of eco-cultural travel and a must-do for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Your journey begins with a scenic boat ride from your accommodation in the Yasawas or Port Denarau. Upon reaching Sawa-i-Lau Island, your guide escorts you up to the cave entrance via a short stairway (some trips arrive before crowds for calmer exploration).

The first cavern welcomes you with an aquamarine saltwater pool beneath a dome-shaped ceiling pierced by a natural skylight. The unique light and acoustic environment make this an unforgettable swim spot. Water is surprisingly cool yet inviting—perfect for all ages, with life jackets available if needed.

For the courageous, a secret second cave lies beyond an underwater tunnel. Guides assist you through a narrow submerged passage into a dimly lit inner chamber—the true ‘heart of the Yasawas‘ according to legend. This inner sanctum inspires awe and reverence, especially when standing within its silent stillness surrounded by ancient rock formations.

Legend surrounds the site—local myth speaks of a princess saved within these caves by her beloved, and it is said to house the spirit of the 10-headed god Ulutini, whose heads are believed to correspond with cave chambers. The caves also gained fame as a filming location for the 1980s movie Blue Lagoon, drawing travellers worldwide.

Most excursions are timed early in the day to avoid crowds. Visitors rate this tour as a highlight—peaceful, culturally rich, and beautifully natural. One traveller recounted, “arrived early, swam into the main cave bathed in sunlight, then swam into an inner chamber—magical… must do

After exploring, return to the beach where small craft markets often offer sarongs or souvenirs by local vendors—bring a small amount of cash to support the community. The total duration is typically 2.5–3 hours, including boat return time and guided swim.

This cave excursion suits moderately fit travellers comfortable in water. Children who swim confidently can enjoy the first cave safely; the inner chamber remains optional (guide-assisted). Boats from Yasawa resorts, day cruises, or seaplane charters can include this highlight in their itineraries—though staying nearby maximises the experience and minimises travel time

Highlights

  • Visit eight villages showcasing Polynesian culture
  • Canoe ride, tattoos, spear throwing, ukulele lessons and fishing
  • Spectacular Polynesian evening dinner show ‘Ha: Breath of Life’
  • Optional transportation from Waikiki hotels

Included/Excluded

  • Specialized bilingual guide
  • Private Transport
  • Entrance fees (Cable and car and Moon Valley)
  • Box lunch water, banana apple and chocolate
  • Additional Services
  • Insurance
  • Drink
  • Tickets

Durations

5 - 7 hours

Frequently asked questions

Typically around 2.5–3 hours including boat transport, swim in the main cave, optional inner cave exploration, and return.

Yes—the main cave is calm and guided. Life jackets are available. The inner cave requires a short underwater swim (~10 seconds) and not recommended for non-swimmers or those uncomfortable in water.

Swimwear, towel, water shoes, dry bag or zip-lock bag for valuables, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small amount of cash for souvenirs.

Arrive early—morning visits see fewer tour groups. Staying in northern Yasawa resorts gives quickest access and better timing for low-crowd visits

Tour's Location

Sawa-i-Lau Island, Fiji

Reviews

5/5
Excellent
(5 Reviews)
Excellent
5
Very Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
5 reviews on this Tour - Showing 1 to 3
Sawa-I-Lau Caves (Yasawa Islands) Tour Fiji
Omar H
09/08/2025
We were warned it would be cool and it was but that only enhanced the beauty of light pooling atop deep blue water. The hidden second cave felt like a mysterious dance with nature. Legends of Ulutini made it feel respectfully mystical. Cave water isn’t perfect, so try not to swallow nature at its wildest
Sawa-I-Lau Caves (Yasawa Islands) Tour Fiji
Zara H
09/08/2025
Visiting the Yasawa’s sacred caves was one of my favorite moments in Fiji. The guided swim into a hidden chamber felt like discovering a secret. The legends shared by locals made it even more special. Just watch your step the ladder back up is old and sharp, so take care.
Sawa-I-Lau Caves (Yasawa Islands) Tour Fiji
John
09/08/2025
A boat ride and a short walk later, we arrived at a breathtaking limestone cave filled with turquoise seawater. Swimming under rays of natural light felt magical. Our guide encouraged us to traverse the underwater tunnel into a hidden chamber so adventurous! That lore about Ulutini and the dramatic legend made the place feel sacred and unforgettable.

Write a review

From: $1,000
5 (5 Reviews)

Owner

Tour Fiji Tours

Member Since 2025

Information Contact

Email

info@tourfiji.tours

Phone

+61 478 886 145

Explore other options