Niue: See
Niue is dotted with many caves and limestone arches. There are a lot of 'sea tracks' that lead from the road to the coast. Wandering down one and seeing what you find at the end is a lot of fun.
The two attractions in the village of Hikutavake, the Matapa Chasm and Talava Arches, start at the same trail head at the north end of the village. Both trails are signposted.
There is an accessible sea track at the far end of the village green overlooking Hikutavake Bay. The steps will take you down to the reef area and huge pools teeming with tropical fish, snorkeling is great for first timers during low tide however a guide is always recommended.
1 Matapa Chasm, In the village of Hikutavake (Take the trail to the left.). Fabulous swimming and snorkelling area, encased by steep 10 m cliffs that overhang a deep long cool pool full of fish. It's next to the sea, but isolated from its currents by large boulders at the ocean side. The drumming noise from the ocean waves is quite a treat and can be deafening as you near its mouth. Taking a refreshing dip here is rewarding after visiting the Talava Arches.
2 Talava Arches (Take the trail to the right.). A massive rock archway noted by Captain Cook in the late 1700s, and surrounded by a network of complex caves. The clearly marked pathway ends in some rock scrambling - take care on the sharp rocks and it can be slippery inside the cave also. Well worth the effort. Allow 30–45 min return and take plenty of water. It's a hot and steamy walk; visit the Matapa Chasm afterwards for a swim. Dolphins and whales can be seen off the coast.
Huvalu Forest Conservation Area. This huge pristine tropical rainforest occupies 20% of Niue's land area! A major source of wildlife and traditional foods, and a major focus of conservation efforts, especially from the adjoining village of Hakupu. Teeming with diverse flora and fauna, though nothing deadly, harmful or poisonous. While the terrain is largely flat it is very uneven and reflects its volcanic origin. Please do not explore alone or you will get lost and there aren't enough people on Niue to come and look for you!
3 Liku Sea Track and Cave, Liku. On Niue's East Coast, this sea track is about 500 m from Liku Village. Access is via a large open cave and the view at dawn - as can be seen from the photo - is stunning. Gaze east and reflect that there are hardly two grains of sand between you and Chile! At low tide, the coastline around here is full of tiny little private 'beaches', little sandy coves varying from 5 to 15 metres long! Lie down and sunbathe, or explore the numerous reef pools. Do be careful to leave well before the tide returns over the outer sea wall, and do take water, sturdy footwear, and some food.
4 Anapala Chasm, Hakupu. Adjacent to Hakupu Heritage Park, a deep sharp descent (there are steps and a chain rail) into the very cool depths reveals a fresh water spring. …