Beqa Island: Firewalking, Mountains and Reef

On Beqa Island, a 462 m-high mountain peak, steep slopes and valleys meet a coral-reef coastline within Beqa Lagoon. The landscape thus combines highlands and lagoon—two sides of the island that are also reflected in the experiences on offer: guided hikes lead to historic sites and viewpoints, while the reef is a focus for snorkeling and diving.

Hikes between history and summit views

Two full-day guided hikes lead to places with different histories. One reaches the old village fortification on the rocky headland of Korovatu, which is 292 m high. Another leads to the remains of a radar station built by the United States during World War II on Delaibeqa (385 m). Both tours last a full day; the difference lies in their destinations: Korovatu is home to an old village fortification, while Delaibeqa has a military installation from World War II.

For a different perspective on the island, a hike leads to the 460 m summit of Mount Ulunkoro. From there, panoramic views extend across the lagoon, the Pacific Ocean and neighboring islands. A waterfall hike offers a different experience: it passes through the rainforest to a natural spring-fed waterfall and includes a swim in the crystal-clear pool at its base. Trail conditions may vary; check conditions in advance if you are planning this tour.

Firewalking as a living tradition

Beqa’s firewalking tradition began about 500 years ago in the highland village of Nakarovu. The special ability to walk on fire is still associated with the bloodline of Tuinaiviqalita and members of Beqa’s Sawau tribe, and is demonstrated in a firewalking ceremony. Beqa is considered an ideal place to see this ceremony in its most authentic form.

At Beqa Lagoon Resort, firewalkers also perform a ritual described as ancient before dinner. Performance opportunities and programs may vary. Ask in advance about the schedule and access arrangements before including a performance in your plans.

Reef and lagoon around the island

The Shark Reef Marine Reserve is located in the coral-reef lagoon surrounding Beqa Island. Beqa Lagoon has more than 30 dive sites. Aqua Trek offers shark dives and soft-coral dives there; the dive sites are a 10- to 15-minute boat ride away. The lagoon also offers dives from 18 m deep for experienced divers, where eight shark species and hundreds of other fish can be found.

At Beqa Lagoon Resort, the house reef is just a few steps from the beach; guided reef-snorkeling tours are also offered. If you plan these activities, ask in advance about tour and equipment availability. This makes it possible to distinguish snorkeling at the house reef from the diving opportunities in the lagoon, rather than treating both as requiring the same arrangements.

Getting around by boat and planning your accommodation

On Beqa Island, people get around by boat; there are no roads. The scheduled boat crossing from Pacific Harbour to Beqa Island Resort takes 45 minutes. Departures are scheduled daily at 11:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., and a boat reservation is required. Check the schedule before your trip and reserve your crossing.

If you are mainly visiting Beqa to experience the firewalking tradition and full-day hikes, you can weigh these priorities against reef activities when planning your trip. Snorkeling and diving each have their own offerings and conditions; tour availability and equipment may change.

Discover more destinations: Naingani, Melimeli.

See the main travel overview: Central Division.