Niue: The Pacific Island You Must Know

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Advisor - Renée Olson
Curated By

Renée Olson

  • Adventure Travel

  • Beaches

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • New Zealand

  • Coastal

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

The image shows a coastal landscape with a palm tree in the foreground, a sandy beach with calm waves and a clear blue sky above.
Curator’s statement

Niue is the perfect spot for nature lovers who want to explore somewhere new. Niue is full of Tracks, Walks & Caves. Nestled in the heart of Polynesia, it boasts incredible views and adventures all around.

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Insider knowledge

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Where to stay in Niue

Scenic Matavai Resort Niue

Experience paradise at Scenic Matavai Resort Niue, where lush tropical landscapes meet crystal-clear waters.

Lau’s Getaway

Escape to tranquility at Lau’s Getaway, your serene retreat in the heart of Niue.

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Things to do in Niue

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  • Explore Niue: Locally family-owned outfit that offers snorkeling, diving, fishing, spear fishing, whale watching, dolphin/whale swimming adventures and orientation tours. They also have a lodge onsite if you want to stay there. They both grew up in Niue and know so much about where it is good to snorkel and explore. The snorkel trip is a highlight of visiting Niue, with a super-diverse marine ecosystem! They take max eight people out and have a guide in the water with you, taking you through caves (optional!) and pointing out cool stuff. The reef edge isn't far off the coast, and the visibility is incredible (200ft visibility is the standard). Snorkeling off the sea tracks is fun and easy, but going off the reef edge by boat is a little different and fun.

  • Niue Blue: They offer snorkel / dive / whale & dolphin watching. You can also hire snorkel gear and stop at any sea track (they're labeled on the road, not all are on the map). Best to ask a local when it's safe to snorkel at each spot if it's not listed in the guidebook, as some are tidal, and others don't matter. Reef shoes are essential.

Places to eat & drink in Niue

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Something to note in a small place like Niue is that there aren't a lot of food options and hours can be inconsistent. Check with locals to make sure vendors are open.

  • Hio Beach Cafe: North of Alofi, delicious & freshest food on a cliffside deck overlooking the ocean.

  • Washaway Cafe: Only open on Sundays (and practically nothing else is open on Sundays). They do burgers, fish & chips, beers & wines. Nothing fancy at all, but good spot overlooking the water, and you can snorkel there. South of town in Avetele.

  • Crazy Uga: Breakfast & lunch. They had the best coffee and scones. Also do eggs, pastry slices, paninis and incredibly thirst-quenching drinking coconuts! Great view off their deck of the main wharf area, in Alofi.

  • Vaiolama: Thursday's happy hour is the WHOLE night! They offer live music and it is where the locals hang out too, which is cool. Beers, wines, cocktails, steak, chicken, burgers and fish when available.

  • Swansons is the main supermarket (right next to the airport). I would suggest buying snacks here if you need something quick between meals.

Need to know

  • Phones: International roaming doesn't work in Niue. You'll have to use the internet at your hotel or buy a SIM card there from the Telecom Niue office in town. Some phones need to be "unlocked" to accept international SIMs, so something to look into before leaving.

  • Money: They use NZ currency. Most places have debit, but no credit, so it's best to bring NZD. There is one Kiwibank in the main town where you can get cash out if needed.

Transport

There are two flights a week with Air NZ only, known adorably as "plane days." Approx 3 hours each way. All seats get entertainment but not meals unless you choose "The Works." No lounge in Niue's airport, but there is one bar past security that has some basics.

  • Cars: Definitely need a car in Niue. They drive on the left side (like the UK/NZ). You don't need an international license. You just have to go to the Police station next door to the airport and get a Niue license, which costs $22 NZD.

  • Bikes: Some people ride bicycles around — it is SO hot and there are some hilly spots, so I wouldn't recommend this unless you're an avid cyclist.

  • Yachts: It is possible to charter yachts here.

Advisor - Renée Olson

Travel Advisor

Renée Olson

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This guide is a part of our ongoing series on travel to New Zealand. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out Vihn Trans' guide, Discover New Zealand: Gastronomic Delights & Adventure Escapades