Visit Limu’s network of rock pools and swim beside elegant butterfly fish and schools of parrot fish. Sunbathe on flat beds of warmed stone beside the open sea.
Limu’s large, natural pools have been a favourite swimming hole with locals for many years. Today the safe swimming and accessibility of a large number of tropical fish species make it a popular stop for visitors looking for a relaxing day out.
Climb up onto scattered rocks and reef edges that divide the pools or peer beneath the surface to view the abundance of animals here. Using a mask or pair of goggles, paddle next to stunning butterfly and trigger fish as well as small eels and sea snakes. Look farther down to where colourful octopus amble about beside bright sponges and anemones.
From here, move up or down a level to find another pool and more amazing creatures within. If leaping between pools seems too strenuous, make use of the staircase that has been created by a small valley of eroded rock piles. As you glide through the warm water, you may notice patches that seem cloudy or oily. These are a result of old rainwater that has filtered through the limestone, mixing with the salt in the sea.
Once you have enjoyed swimming in several of the pools, rest on the water’s edge. The rocks are flat and warmed by the sun, making them very comfortable places to sunbathe. Notice the long fields of coral that stretch out to the sea and stay alert to watch for dolphins jumping just offshore.
Limu is on the northwestern coast of the island, a 5-minute walk from Namukulu Village. The village itself is a 10-minute drive from Alofi. The pools are always open and can be enjoyed at any state of the tide.
