Swallows' Cave
A Vava'u sea cave with a high chamber and light coming up through the water.
Updated 3 September 2026
Swallows' Cave opens in a cliff on Kapa island in Vava'u, a chamber large enough to take a boat in with an opening high above the water and light coming in and reflecting up off the sand below, so the whole interior glows blue. Swiftlets nest in the roof, which is where the name comes from. The water inside is deep and clear and boats stop for swimming and snorkelling.
The landscape
- The high chamber - a cave big enough for boats to enter under a tall roof.
- The blue light - sunlight reflecting up off the sand through the water.
- The swiftlets - the birds nesting in the roof the cave is named for.
- The clear water - deep swimming inside the chamber.
When to go
May to October is the drier season with calmest water. Midday light gives the strongest blue inside. Swell closes the entrance at times.
Things to know
Access is by boat only and trips are cancelled in swell. Graffiti has been cut into the walls over the years. The cave is on most tour itineraries and gets busy midday.
Nearby
Mariner's Cave is nearby, and Neiafu is northeast.
What to pack for Swallows' Cave
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Reef-safe sunscreen - High SPF that will not bleach the coral you are swimming over. Find on Amazon
- Your own mask + snorkel - A well-fitting mask is the single biggest comfort upgrade underwater. Find on Amazon
- Head torch + spare batteries - Hands-free light is essential; caves are truly dark. Find on Amazon
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Where to start if Swallows' Cave is going on the list.
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
