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Waterfall Bay

A bay on Vanua Lava where a waterfall drops straight into the sea.

Updated 3 September 2026

Typebay and waterfall
WhereTorba
Nearest citySola
Best seasonApril to October
Time to allowA day
Getting thereOn the western side of Vanua Lava; boat from Sola, around an hour
EntryCustom fees

On the western coast of Vanua Lava a waterfall comes off the cliff and drops directly into the sea in a bay of the same name, one of a handful of places in the Pacific where that happens. A second larger fall stands a short walk inland behind the village. The bay is reached by open boat from Sola along the coast. The village charges a custom fee and guides the walk up.

Highlights

  • The sea fall - water dropping off the cliff straight into the bay.
  • The inland fall - the larger drop a short walk behind the village.
  • The village - the settlement that manages and guides access.
  • The boat approach - the run along the coast from Sola.

When to go

April to October is the dry season and calmest for the boat. Flow is heaviest in the wet season but the sea is rougher. Swell cancels the crossing.

Good to know

Access is by open boat and cancelled in swell. Customary fees apply and must be paid to the village. Facilities are nonexistent and the walk inland is muddy.

Nearby

Sola is east, and Ureparapara is north.

What to pack for Waterfall Bay

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
  • Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
  • Daypack with rain cover - 20-30 litres holds water, snacks, layers and a first-aid kit. Find on Amazon
  • Offline maps + a power bank - Download the trail before you lose signal; carry backup charge. Find on Amazon

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Plan your trip

Where to start if Waterfall Bay 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.

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