A 462 m mountain peak, steep slopes and valleys define Beqa Island; the terrain descends to a coral reef coastline within Beqa Lagoon. The island also offers full-day guided hikes, a long firewalking tradition and boat transfers instead of roads. When planning your trip, it is worth considering your priorities and the boat connections you will need together.
Mountain Terrain and Hiking Destinations
A full-day guided hike leads to an old village fortification on the rocky headland of Korovatu (292 m). Another full-day guided tour reaches the remains of a US-built World War II radar station on Delaibeqa (385 m). Both are full-day excursions; they differ mainly in their historical connection and location.
A hike leads to the summit of Mount Ulunkoro on Beqa Island, which stands 460 m high. From there, panoramic views extend across the lagoon, the Pacific Ocean and neighboring islands. Another route passes through the rainforest to a natural freshwater waterfall and includes a swim in the crystal-clear pool at its base. Trail conditions on this waterfall hike can vary, so check conditions in advance.
Firewalking and Cultural History
Beqa’s firewalking tradition began about 500 years ago in the highland village of Nakarovu. The special fire-related ability 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 from Beqa perform a ritual described as ancient before dinner. The program may change. If you would like to include the performance in your plans, ask the resort whether it will be offered during your visit. This lets you consider the cultural tradition as a separate part of your trip, without confusing it with the full-day hikes.
Reefs and Diving Around Beqa
Shark Reef Marine Reserve lies in the coral reef lagoon around Beqa Island. Beqa Lagoon has more than 30 dive sites; the number may change. Aqua Trek offers shark and soft coral dives there. The dive sites are a 10 to 15-minute boat ride away. Experienced divers can also take dives in Beqa Lagoon starting at 18 m, where eight shark species and hundreds of other fish can be found.
For guests at Beqa Lagoon Resort, the house reef is just a few steps from the beach; guided reef snorkeling tours are also available. Tour and equipment availability may change, so it is advisable to check in advance. This resort activity differs from diving in the lagoon and may help you choose the marine experiences you are looking for.
Getting Around by Boat
There are no roads on Beqa; travel is by boat. The scheduled boat transfer from Pacific Harbour to Beqa Island Resort takes 45 minutes. Daily departures are listed at 11:00 and 16:30, and a boat reservation is required for the crossing. Check departure times before traveling and plan around your chosen connection.
Discover more destinations: Naingani, Melimeli.
Return to the main travel overview: Central Division.
