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

About this tour

Sawa-i-Lau Caves are one of Fiji’s most mystical natural wonders, and this guided experience takes you deep into the heart of these ancient limestone caverns located in the northern Yasawa Islands. Often referred to as the “Blue Lagoon Caves,” the Sawa-i-Lau Caves are a must-visit for adventure seekers, swimmers, photographers, and anyone drawn to Fiji’s raw island beauty and cultural legends.

Your journey to the Sawa-i-Lau Caves begins with a scenic boat ride from your accommodation in the Yasawas or Port Denarau. Upon arrival at Sawa-i-Lau Island, your guide leads you up a short stairway to the cave entrance. Many tours aim to arrive early to avoid crowds, offering a quieter, more immersive exploration.

The first cavern greets you with a striking aquamarine pool illuminated by a natural skylight in the dome-shaped ceiling. This creates a magical glow, enhancing the atmosphere as you swim in the cool, refreshing saltwater basin. It’s suitable for all ages, with life jackets available for added comfort and safety.

For the adventurous, an optional second chamber awaits beyond a narrow underwater tunnel. Guided by experts, you’ll briefly dive beneath the rock to emerge inside a darker, more enclosed inner cavern—considered by locals as the spiritual heart of the Yasawas. The stillness, echoing acoustics, and ancient rock walls make this inner chamber an experience like no other.

Local legends enrich the caves’ mystique. One well-known tale tells of a princess hidden inside the caves by her lover for protection. Another myth speaks of the 10-headed god Ulutini, whose spirit is believed to reside within these chambers. The Blue Lagoon movie, filmed here in the 1980s, has also added worldwide fame to the site.

Many tours schedule visits in the morning to avoid peak crowds. Travellers often describe the experience as peaceful, spiritual, and unforgettable. One review captures the essence perfectly: “Arrived early, swam through the sunlit main cave, then into the secret inner chamber—pure magic.”

After exploring the caves, you’ll return to the shoreline where craft stalls occasionally pop up, offering sarongs, handmade jewelry, and local souvenirs. Bringing a small amount of cash allows you to support the island community.

The total tour duration is usually 2.5–3 hours, including boat transfer, guided cave swimming, and time for exploration. This excursion is ideal for moderately fit travellers who are comfortable in the water. Confident young swimmers can enjoy the main cavern, while the second chamber is optional and always guide-assisted.

Whether reached via Yasawa resort boats, private charters, day cruises, or seaplane combos, the Sawa-i-Lau Caves remain one of Fiji’s most remarkable natural attractions—beautiful, mysterious, and steeped in island legend.