Sea Tracks, Short Walks, Scenic Spots and Places to Swim in Alofi
Niue is a raised coral atoll full of sorts of nooks and crannies. Find secluded bays, rocky lookouts and beaches, even in the capital of Niue, Alofi. Sea tracks are the way to get to Niue’s natural wonders, all of which are super short and can be done by all ages (just mind your step as some trails and steps can be slippery). If you’re looking for short walks in Alofi or places to appreciate some of Niue’s natural beauty within walking distance of the town, then take a look at these amazing sea tracks in Alofi!
For more walks around the island, be sure to check out the 10 Best Hikes in Niue, as well as the 20 Best Sea Tracks in Niue.
1. Amanau Sea Track
Best tide for swimming: Low to mid tide.
Location: Signposted in Alofi South, approximately 100 m (110 yards) west of Pacific Way Bar, west coast of Niue.
Starting south of Alofi, also known as Alofi South, the Amanau Sea Track is a super short walk through a coconut plantation and down some steps to a beautiful stretch of rocky coastline. Climb down the ladder here and you’ll have access to a sheltered swimming hole with overhanging rock. The swimming hole is ideal for snorkelling.
(c) niuepocketguide.com2. Opaahi Sea Track
Not suitable for swimming.
Location: Opposite Kaiika and the Latter-Day Saints Church, Alofi town centre, central west coast of Niue.
Easily accessible in Alofi town, opposite the Latter-Day Saints Church and the Kaiika restaurant, the Opaahi Sea Track is a historical and charming sight. The short sea track leads down to a rocky outcrop where locals store their vaka (canoes). You can also scramble across the rocks to get excellent views of Niue’s rocky coastline. The cove here was the site of Captain Cook’s second landing attempt in June 1774, which was challenged by locals and his men were forced to return to his ship. Learn more about it in the 10 Fascinating Historical Sites in Niue. Swimming is only possible here for strong ocean swimmers.
(c) niuepocketguide.com3. Kalaone Sea Track
Not suitable for swimming.
Location: Opposite the Latter-Day Saints Church and Halamahaga Road, Alofi town centre, central west coast of Niue.
An easy one for all fitness levels (you can even drive down with road access), the Kalaone Sea Track is primarily a launch point for local fisherfolk and their vaka. There is some pleasant coastal scenery here and this is also a stellar place to watch the sunset. Note that you shouldn’t touch the vaka stored here, as per Niuean custom. See Niuean Etiquette: Niue Customs & Traditions for more details.
© NiuePocketGuide.com4. Togalahi Sea Track
Best tide: High tide for swimming, low tide for reef walking.
Location: Just north past the Parliament buildings and opposite the Commercial Centre, Alofi town centre, central west coast of Niue.
A sea track that’s often missed yet right in the centre of town, the Togalahi Sea Track offers a short walk to a rocky and sandy cove. It’s possible to snorkel close to shore at high tide or enjoy exploring the reef with your reef shoes at low tide (be careful not to step on wildlife or corals).
© NiuePocketGuide.com5. Utuko Reef Sea Track
Best tide for swimming: Low-to-mid incoming tide.
Location: Sea track next to Crazy Uga Cafe, Alofi town centre, central west coast of Niue.
A must-visit from the town centre of Alofi, the Utuko Reef Sea Track leads down to an attractive golden coral sand beach and reef. Enjoy the amazing views of the beach, clear turquoise waters and the rocky cliffs on either side. There are easily accessible pools for swimming to the left of the cove, which is possible to swim at mid to high tide depending on what the swell is doing. See more things to do in Alofi town in 10 Things to Do in Alofi.
© NiuePocketGuide.com6. Omahi Sea Track
Not suitable for swimming.
Location: Signposted on the coastal side of the road near Niue Rentals, Alofi North, central west coast of Niue.
Signposted on the coastal side of the road near the Niue Rentals office in Alofi North, the Omahi Sea Track is a short adventure down a rocky trail. The track brings you out onto the coastline with sweeping views on either side. It’s a great place to come and watch the sunset. See more stunning sunset spots in the 10 Most Beautiful Sunrise & Sunset Spots in Niue.
(c) niuepocketguide.com7. Togalupo Sea Track
Not suitable for swimming.
Location: Opposite Yolos Accommodation, approximately 1.5 km (1 mi) north of Alofi town centre, Alofi North, central west coast of Niue.
Located on the northern outskirts of Alofi, the Togalupo Sea Track is a short stroll down to what we like to think is the world’s smallest bay! This little nook in the Niuean coastline is suitable for a paddle and makes a fun photo opportunity.
(c) niuepocketguide.com8. Houme Sea Track
Best tide: Low tide for swimming and reef walking.
Location: Signposted near the Catholic Church, Houme, Alofi North, central west coast of Niue.
Easy to miss along the main road of Alofi North, this short bush walk leads to a concrete set of steps leading straight into the water of a sheltered bay. Go at low tide to enjoy a spot of reef walking at the bottom of the Houme Sea Track, as well as shallow pools for snorkelling.
© NiuePocketGuide.com9. Vaila Sea Track
Best tide for swimming: Low tide.
Location: Opposite Tusekolo Bush Road, 2 km (1.2 mi) north of Alofi town centre, Alofi North, central west coast of Niue.
Finally, if you head to the northern outskirts of Alofi, you’ll come across the Vaila Sea Track. After a short walk and making use of the picnic area here, you will find a set of concrete steps leading into a cave and rock pools below. The cave is within a marine-protected area, so while it’s important to mind your step and not take any shells, the rock pools provide an amazing snorkelling opportunity. Snorkelling is best done at low tide. Check out more snorkelling hotspots in the 10 Best Places to Snorkel in Niue.
(c) niuepocketguide.comMore About Sea Tracks in Alofi
That’s it for the sea tracks in Alofi, as well as scenic spots and places to swim. Plan more of your stay in Alofi with these guides:
- The Best Places to Eat in Alofi: 15 Best Restaurants
- 10 Best Things to Do in Alofi
- 10 Best Accommodations & Places to Stay in Alofi
Finally, get more trip-planning advice in The Complete Travel Guide to Alofi.
