Nestled in Fiji’s Ringgold Isles is the uncorrupted beauty of Cobia (also known as Thombia) Island is nestled in Fiji’s Ringgold Isles. It’s captivating crescent moon shape is the result of ancient volcanic eruptions, relentless winds, crashing waves, and vibrant coral growth.
Located on the NE corner of the Ringgold Isles. It is truly one of the most stunning places we’ve ever seen!
Cobia is a relatively small island with a land area covering 69.29 hectares. The highest elevation is located on the western side of the island at 525′. The stunning geological formations and beach forests of the island contribute to its natural significance.
Cobia Island is one of the main reasons we wanted to visit the Ringgold Isles. It is a volcanic island with a pristine lagoon exposed on the northeast side. The sunken volcanic crater has filled with sea water forming a beautiful blue lagoon.
Dinghies (and very small boats) are able to cross over the reef at high tide. Otherwise the lagoon is inaccessible.
The Navionic image below is upside down to match the photo we took. Normally, the opening faces north.
The Caldera’s Lagoon
We took our dinghy from Yavu Island to Cobia along with our friends on Wainani (Jaqui and Tony) and Geniet Lewe (Shane and Wendy). It was a long, bumpy 3.5nm dinghy ride which took us about 35 minutes.
We decided to explore the lagoon first since it was close to high tide. The water was so clear and beautiful. Tony (sv Wainani) flew his drone over the lagoon and captured some great photos of us.
The lagoon has rich coral reefs and abundant marine life. It is regarded as the clearest ocean waters in the world; the visibility often exceeds 120 feet (36 meters).
We explored the nooks and crannies in between the mangroves. Finding little pools of untouched waters and lush vegetation.
The Caldera’s Ridge
During low tide, there are four beautiful white sand beaches. The path to the highest point is off one of these beaches.
We were all itching to hike to the top of the ridge on Cobia Island. No Foreign Land states that trail was about 15-20 minutes to the top. However, the starting point of that hike was off a beach that was not accessible by dinghy. So, we started from a different beach with the hopes of finding a new trail to the ridge top.
Like most adventures, the boys made their own path. It was through thick bushes, trees, and up a steep slope. But we eventually found the trail.
We continued heading North along the ridge and found 3 lookout points. The first lookout had a gorgeous view of the caldera and lagoon. Matt almost slipped off the rock…..kidding he posed for the lower photo.
The Top of the Cobia Caldera
We made it after 50 minutes ascending to the top.
The vegetation was so tall that you couldn’t see through it or over it. Thus, making the view not as good as the 1st and 3rd lookout.
However, Tony got the drone out again and captured some more amazing photos.
These photos just take my breath away.
I can’t believe we got to see this in person and feel the enormity of this place.
On the way back, Matt wandered down a random route and found a third lookout.
This was a once in a lifetime experience. To experience it with our friends was a true blessing. This was a once in a lifetime experience.
We headed over to Geniet Lewe for some cold beverages before making the 3.5 mile trek back in the dinghy.
Our blog posts run 6-8 weeks behind actual live events. We visited Cobia at the end of May 2025.
Find Cobia on No Foreign Land: https://www.noforeignland.com/place/6755338971799499
