Levuka Fiji feels like a Pacific port that history left behind. Along the waterfront, wooden shopfronts with tin roofs and verandas face a calm harbor. Behind them, steep green mountains rise into the clouds. In fact, this small town was once the first capital of Fiji, and it has changed remarkably little since the late 1800s. Meanwhile, life moves at an easy island pace, with friendly locals and almost no tourists. So, if you want to see a very different side of Fiji, here is how to plan your visit.
Quick Facts About Levuka Fiji
| Country | Fiji |
| Region | Ovalau Island, Lomaiviti Group, east of Viti Levu |
| Known For | 19th-century wooden shopfronts, Fiji’s first capital, colonial history and island hikes |
| UNESCO Status | Levuka Historical Port Town, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2013 |
| Founded | As a European trading settlement in the 1830s |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October, the dry season |
| Getting There | Bus and ferry from Suva, or a short flight to Ovalau |
Where Is Levuka Fiji?
Levuka lies on the east coast of Ovalau, a volcanic island in the Lomaiviti Group. Specifically, Ovalau sits just east of Viti Levu, Fiji’s main island, and roughly 60 kilometers from the capital, Suva. In addition, the town is squeezed between the sea and the steep slopes of an old volcanic crater. As a result, its streets are narrow, and houses climb up the hillsides on long staircases.
Why Visit Levuka Fiji?
First, the history here is fascinating. In the 1800s, Levuka was a busy port for whalers, traders and missionaries. Later, it became the first colonial capital of Fiji. Consequently, UNESCO listed it as Fiji’s first World Heritage Site in 2013, describing it as a rare example of a late colonial port town in the Pacific.
Second, Levuka Fiji is peaceful and authentic. For example, there are no big resorts, chain hotels or crowds. Finally, Ovalau island offers lush hikes, traditional villages and quiet bays. If you loved our guide to Akaroa in New Zealand, you will enjoy this other historic harbor town in the South Pacific.
Things to Do in Levuka Fiji
Walk Along Beach Street
Beach Street is the heart of Levuka. It is lined with wooden and concrete shopfronts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, they hold general stores, small cafés and family businesses. Then, sit by the seawall and watch fishing boats come and go.
Visit Sacred Heart Church
Sacred Heart Church is one of the town’s most famous landmarks. Its clock tower is said to strike the hour twice, once and then again a minute later. According to local tradition, the second strike is for anyone who missed the first. Therefore, it is a fitting symbol of this relaxed island town.
Climb the 199 Steps
Behind the town, a long concrete staircase known as the 199 Steps climbs up Mission Hill. At the top, for example, you get wonderful views over the rooftops, the harbor and the reef. Above all, go early in the morning, before the heat of the day.
Explore the Historic Buildings
Levuka Fiji is full of firsts. For instance, it had Fiji’s first public school, first newspaper and first bank. In addition, the Royal Hotel, which has welcomed guests since the 1800s, is often described as the oldest operating hotel in the South Pacific. Furthermore, you can visit the old Town Hall and the Masonic Lodge ruins.
See the Cession Site at Nasova
Just south of town, a simple memorial marks the Cession Site. Here, on October 10, 1874, Fijian chiefs signed the Deed of Cession, which made Fiji a British colony. Interestingly, Fiji gained independence on the same date in 1970, so October 10 is now celebrated as Fiji Day.
Day Trips From Levuka Fiji
Lovoni Village
Lovoni is a traditional village set inside the old volcanic crater in the center of Ovalau. You can hike there with a local guide or take a truck along the bumpy road. Moreover, villagers often welcome visitors with a kava ceremony, so bring a small gift of kava root.
Snorkeling and Nearby Islands
The reefs around Ovalau are good for snorkeling and diving. Similarly, small islands such as Leleuvia and Caqalai offer simple eco-resorts and white-sand beaches. Together, they make a perfect beach break after exploring the town.
One Historical Fact About Levuka Fiji
Levuka served as the capital of Fiji from 1874 until 1882. However, the steep hills left no room for the town to grow. As a result, the government moved the capital to Suva, which had more space for expansion.
How to Get to Levuka Fiji
Most visitors travel from Suva. First, take a bus to Natovi Landing on Viti Levu. From there, a ferry crosses to Ovalau, and a bus continues to Levuka. Alternatively, small planes fly from Nausori Airport near Suva to the airstrip on Ovalau. In addition, check schedules in advance, since services can change.
Best Time to Visit Levuka Fiji
The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to October. During these months, the weather is warm, sunny and less humid. On the other hand, the wet season from November to April brings heavy rain and a risk of cyclones. Also, Fiji Day on October 10 is a special time to visit, since Levuka has a unique connection to the date.
Is Levuka Fiji Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Levuka Fiji offers history, culture and island scenery without the crowds of the resort areas. Ideally, spend at least two nights to explore the town and the island. For another beautiful South Pacific destination, read our guide to Bora Bora in French Polynesia.
Final Thoughts on Levuka Fiji
In short, Levuka is a rare glimpse of the old South Pacific. Walk along Beach Street, climb the 199 Steps and share kava with villagers in Lovoni. By the end of your visit, you will see why Fiji’s first capital is one of its best-kept secrets.
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
- Anton Leddin: BeachStreetLevuka, CC BY-SA 3.0
- Anton Leddin: ChurchLevuka, CC BY-SA 3.0
- Melbar: General Store Levuka, CC BY-SA 4.0
- Anton Leddin: Nasova House in Levuka Fiji, CC BY-SA 4.0
- State Library of New South Wales collection: Levuka, Fiji, ca. 1883 – photographer unknown (5371307731), No restrictions
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