THINGS TO DO
In addition to blissful relaxation, there are a wide range of diverse activities available to you on Taveuni.
All activities can be arranged prior to arrival when booking Lomani or through Tukana (our caretaker) when arriving at Lomani. Alternatively, all contact information for activities is also provided at Lomani should you wish to arrange yourself.
Bike Riding, Bird Watching, Diving, Fishing, Golf, Hiking, Kayaking, Massage, Picnic Spots, Surfing, Tennis, Snorkeling and Waitavala Waterslide.
Bike Riding
There are two bicycles provided at Lomani for your use. You can ride to the range of activities (including diving, kayaking, snorkelling) and restaurants in Matei Point (5kms away) or to the restaurants and supermarkets in Somosomo/Naqara (4kms away in the other direction). Alternatively, simply explore your surrounds and find that perfect tropical private beach to snorkel or take a refreshing swim and relax.
Bird Watching
Perhaps the main reason for the amazing variety of bird life in Taveuni is the absence of the mongoose, which was introduced on many of the other islands (particularly where cane was grown) to control the rat population. Taveuni's relatively inaccessible mountains and abundant food supply also have made it a haven for many species once found throughout the group including big pigeons, parrots including the Taveuni Parrot which is ubiquitous, the Azure Crowned Flycatcher, the fabled Orange Dove. There is also the Australian magpie which was introduced to control coconut pests. In addition to several varieties of dove, there is also a species of Goshawk, with a salmon pink breast, and the Vanikoro Broadbill that has a gunmetal blue head, dark blue wings and orange breast. Other birds on Taveuni include Collard Lory, Vanikoro Broadbill, Black-naped Tern, Wattled Honeyeater and the Fiji Goshawk.
Diving
There is three major, distinct diving areas around Taveuni. To the north of Taveuni lie in close proximity the islands of Qamea and Matagi with their surrounding reef systems. The Rainbow Reef and Vuna Reef are famous for diving and snorkeling, respectively. The Rainbow Reef, on the western side in the narrow strait between Taveuni and Vanua Levu (ie in front of Lomani!), is known as one of the world's premier soft coral dive areas. The horseshoe shaped Vuna Lagoon, near the southern end of the island, is much appreciated among divers for the opportunity to see larger pelagic and schooling fish species on the exposed southern side of the reef, whereas the sheltered western parts provide pristine soft and hard coral gardens.
Some of the more popular dives at the Rainbow Reef in front of Lomani
include the Great White Wall and Little White Wall, named for their luminescent
white coral; Rainbows End, with an incredible gardens of multi-colored
soft corals; and 3 Bommies, made up of three giant coral towers or "bommies" that
rise up from the sea floor to within 12 meters of the surface.
As you would expect, there are a number of certified dive operators on
Taveuni catering for beginners through to experienced professionals and we can tailor Lomani Accommodation & Dive packages to meet your requirements.
Fishing
Taveuni, being an island paradise, offers a range of fishing options for you from the DIY variety through to professional charters.
There is a reef directly in front of Lomani which is an excellent spot to fish amongst other spots on Taveuni. There is also the opportunity to go hand-line fishing with locals. The local fishermen leave in the evening and use handlines and they welcome guests as part of their party. There are also locals willing to take guests hand-line fishing at times to suit the guests. Reef fishing offers the opportunity to catch Giant Trevally, Blue fin Trevally, Barracuda, Walu, and Dogtooth Tuna.
If a professional charter is your choice there is John Llanes, formerly of the Big Island of Hawaii who will take you out to catch four varieties of marlin—blue, black, sailfish, and striped. There is also the opportunity to land Swordfish, Wahoo, Mahi-mahi, Yellow fin, Big Eye Tuna and Albacore.
Golf
A 9 hole golf course is located at Soqulu (pronounced song-goo-loo) Village which is approx a 30 minute drive from Lomani. The links are situated on a gorgeous coastal strip of land. Unfortunately the condition of the course is less than magnificent but nonetheless it's fun to play.
Hiking
There are an endless number of diverse hikes available on Taveuni from beachfront and river hikes through to mountain climbs amidst dense lush jungle vegetation. One can even choose to cross Taveuni from the west to the sparsely populated and extremely rugged east coast which is full of wondrous waterfalls and ocean cliffs. It takes approx. 3 hours to cross Taveuni so a 6 hour hike in total.
Recommended hikes include the Bouma Falls (3 hour return journey including swimming time) and Lavena Walk (4 hour return journey including swimming time).
There is also a fantastic hike behind Lomani that leads to a creek which you can swim in whilst taking in the rugged tropical flora and fauna on offer.
Kayaking
Being an island paradise, kayaks are a great way to explore the inner reefs and a number of the small islands that neighbour Taveuni. They are easy to maneuver and one need not be a tri-athlete to use them. However, it helps to be in good physical condition. You will be able to observe the various reefs and beautiful colourful fish.
There are a number of operators who rent out kayaks by the hour, day or even extended periods.
Massage
Why not indulge yourself with an authentic South Pacific massage during your stay at Lomani using natural tropical oils and products.
Rates are extremely reasonable and the massage can be enjoyed on the deck at Lomani beside the pool and overlooking the sea below.
We can also offer full body scrub’s (including head to toe massage), facials and manicure and pedicure.
Picnic Spots
In addition to the private and romantic secluded picnic spots available at Lomani, there are a range of picnic spots on Taveuni to choose from. Simply decide whether you want beach, river, waterfall or simply rugged tropical surrounds. Bouma Falls and Lavena Walk, in particular, would rival anywhere in the world for a romantic picnic. Alternatively, choose to kayak to a nearby island for a private picnic sitting on the beach of a deserted island.
Surfing
There is a reasonable break on Taveuni at Lavena Point. This is a break that you will almost always enjoy to yourself. There are also good breaks on neighbouring islands to which tours can be arranged.
Tennis
Along with the 9 hole golf course at Soqulu, there are also tennis courts (1 grass and 1 asphalt) which can be rented (including racquets and balls) .
Snorkelling
There are numerous snorkelling spots available on Taveuni including the reef directly in front of Lomani.
Snorkelling equipment is available for your use at Lomani.
You may also choose to kayak to snorkelling spots including the many nearby islands.
Waitavala Waterslide
This
natural waterslide is a picturesque spot and quite popular with the
local kids, both big and small! It's secluded, verdant and filled with
the laughter of children and a thrill for the more adventurous.
