First recorded sighting by Europeans was by the Spanish expedition of Luís Vaez de Torres on 18 July 1606, that charted it as San Buenaventura (after Saint Bonaventure).

[3][4][5] A party of French naturalists was believed to have been murdered in James Bay in October 1880.

[6][7] This island was the scene of the murder of two sailors by natives in Hoopiron Bay, July 28, 1885.

Mount Kova Sina (Fairfax) reaches a height of 531 meters (1,742 ft), and is located at the center of the island.

List of villages: Hoopiron Bay, Gaiogaiokawasi, Baiaule, Hilomai, Habani, Halahalawuwu, Salewai, Wetoa, Dauyai, Hiliki, Towina, Kawalolo, Bedauna, Mwahui, Kalotau, Taladio, Agarauna, Huba, Yokowa, Dahidahina, Siu, Pihigole, Gigia, Doba, Tanubuibuina, Delina, Tutuila, Hewoli, Hamama, Duiauna, Nuanuatieu, Gogolabia, Hakalihi, Bogala, Kalamadau, Yahala.