The Talava Arches are a series of natural sea arches on Niue's north coast, carved by wave erosion through the island's coral limestone cliffs. The main arch is substantial — wide enough to swim through at high tide — and the surrounding coastline is riddled with pools, overhangs, and lava tubes that make for extraordinary exploring.
Access is via the Talava Sea Track, a walking path along the cliffs that also passes Matapa Chasm. The track is not difficult, but the limestone surface is uneven; wear shoes with grip. Swimming through the arches is possible at high tide and calm sea conditions; check conditions before you go, as the ocean swell in this corner of the Pacific can be powerful and unpredictable. Allow a half-day for the full track combined with stops at the pools and the chasm.