Surfing in Kadavu Passage

Perhaps Fiji’s best-kept secret, The Kadavu Passage is the lesser known region of Fiji with incredible waves, world-class diving and plenty of native culture on tap. Located just south of Fiji’s main Island of Viti Levu, it holds a cluster of uncharted reefs and beautiful white sand beaches. The Kadavu Region is popular because it is often less crowded and unexplored than the main island and Mamanucas region to the North.

The south coast of Kadavu is often pounded by massive south swells coming from New Zealand and the deep south Pacific. Kadavu Passage is no place for the faint of heart, as it has more than its fair share of heavy slabs breaking onto a razor-sharp reef. The adventurous surfer will be rewarded with uncrowded lineups and a chance to score hollow barrels all to themselves.

Although The Kadavu Passage region is home to multiple high-end surf resorts, organizing a traditional homestay can be a great way to immerse yourself in the culture and make friends with some friendly locals.

Getting Here

International flights will arrive in Fiji’s main airport of Nadi International Airport. From Viti Levu, you have the option of taking a small charter plane to Kadavu Island. The plane ride offers up some incredible views of Fiji’s main island and the reefs and small islands below. For a cheaper option, most resorts and hotels on Kadavu Island will organise charter boats to pick you up from Viti Levu.

Seasons

The Kadavu Region experiences the same warm tropical climate as all of Fiji with two defined seasons. Winter or ‘Dry Season’ runs from May to October and is Fiji’s most consistent surf season. Kadavu Island gets hammered with SE and SW Swells sent by low-pressure systems off the coast of New Zealand. Tradewinds ruining the perfect surf are a problem this time a year as the Kadavu region is highly exposed. Take a wetsuit top as the tradewinds can cool temperatures down.

Summer or ‘wet season’ runs from late October to early April and offers smaller waves and light winds. If you’re looking to score all day sessions with minimal people in the lineup, this is a good time to get out and explore the Kadavu region. Keep in mind that afternoon downpours are normal and January through March are the wettest months of the year.

Surf Spots

Kadavu Passage is highly exposed to the SE trade winds that are notorious for ruining perfect surf. Early morning and late evening sessions are your best bet when looking to score waves here.

King Kong is perhaps the regions most famous wave and offers up a massive lefthander breaking in deepwater creating a hollow tube. It’s one of the most consistent waves in the region and works on all tides. King Kong Right is a super fast hollow right that is usually blown out by the trade winds.

Frigates is a freight train left-hander that is accessible by boat from Viti Levu. It’s super rippable and playful when it’s smaller and only for the experienced when it gets over 5 feet. With plenty of Swell, Serua Rights comes alive and offers a long right-hander that finally ends in a shallow reef section.

Vunaniu is a solid option if all other spots are maxed out. Similarly, Uatotkoa is a good bet if there is plenty of swell in the water and light winds. It offers a long right with a few good barrel sections. If you’re looking for a more beginner friendly wave, Waidroka Lefts can produce a long left with a mellow takeoff on all tides.

Access to Surf Spots

All surf spots in The Kadavu region are boat access only. As most spots are in remote locations, the adventurous surfer will be rewarded with empty lineups and incredible scenery. Make sure to charter a boat with a knowledgeable local captain who is familiar with the area for the best bet of scoring waves.

Accommodation

Due to the remoteness of Kadavu Island, most of the resorts tend to be on the higher end and can be quite pricey. Popular resorts for traveling surfers include Matanivusi Surf Eco Resort, Beqa Lagoon Resort, Maqai Beach Eco Surf Resort, and Qamea Resort and Spa(LINKS TO ALL). These resorts are all inclusive and the price reflects that. For budget accommodation, arranging a homestay experience with a local family is your best bet to save some money and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Other Activities

Keep in mind that The Kadavu Region is much more remote than other parts of Fiji. Incredible diving and fishing can be had off of the regions numerous reefs. Windsurfing is popular here as it’s windy about 70% of the year. The Kadavu Region is also much less touristy so rich cultural experiences can be had if you’d like to visit the local islands and villages.