The Sea Tracks, Chasms and Caves

Niue, one of the world's smallest nations and largest raised coral atolls, has no rivers, sandy beaches or lagoon, but instead something rarer: a dramatic, rugged coastline of uplifted limestone riddled with an extraordinary network of chasms, sea caves, grottoes and hidden pools. Down a series of jungle paths known as sea tracks, visitors descend to discover magical spots: the Matapa Chasm, a deep, sheltered cleft of cool, clear water once the bathing place of kings; the soaring Talava Arches and their caves; the Togo Chasm, a hidden oasis of a sandy pit amid pinnacles of rock; and countless pools of astonishingly clear turquoise water. Exploring these hidden coastal wonders is the essence and joy of Niue.

The landscape

• Matapa Chasm - the deep, sheltered cleft of cool clear water.
• Talava Arches - the soaring natural arches and caves.
• Togo Chasm - the hidden sandy oasis amid rock pinnacles.
• The clear pools - the countless turquoise limestone pools.

When to go

May to October, the drier, cooler season, for the best weather and conditions, though the pools and chasms can be explored year-round; the sea tracks are best in dry conditions, as the coral paths can be slippery, and some spots depend on the tide and swell. Sturdy footwear, water shoes and care are needed for the rugged, sharp limestone.

What to expect

Niue's coast is rugged uplifted coral rather than sandy beach, so its wonders are the chasms, caves and pools reached down sometimes steep, rough and slippery sea tracks over sharp limestone, requiring sturdy footwear, care and reasonable agility, and some spots depend on tides; there are no classic beaches. For the reward of exploring a unique and enchanting coastline of hidden chasms, caves, arches and astonishingly clear turquoise pools, though, a genuine natural playground unlike anywhere else, Niue is magical.

Nearby

The capital Alofi and the whale waters offshore are around the island.