DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Fiji – Sonaisali Island, has introduced an innovative mushroom farming initiative, enhancing on-site food production and producing it’s first harvest of fresh oyster mushrooms. Destination: Coral Coast
The resort’s first crop yielded an impressive 27.15 kilograms of high-quality mushrooms, which are now being featured in breakfast offerings at the resort’s Vulani Restaurant and incorporated into select dinner dishes. The initiative not only enhances the resort’s farm-to-table dining experience but also supports its ongoing commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
“This project began as a simple idea — to explore sustainable ways of producing our own ingredients right here on the island,” said Shanaka Perera, General Manager, DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Fiji. “To see it come to life through the hard work and collaboration of our team is incredibly rewarding. It’s a great example of innovation and teamwork teamwork supporting more sustainable food practices on the island.”
The mushroom farming project is part of a collaboration with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UNDESA) under the Juncao Technology initiative, which promotes sustainable agricultural methods that can be adopted in local communities. Through this partnership, DoubleTree Fiji has been able to trial mushroom cultivation on-site, with results exceeding expectations.
Beyond producing fresh, locally grown ingredients for guests, the initiative represents part of the resort’s ongoing exploration of sustainable operational practices — one that reduces supplydependencies, supports local food resilience, and enriches the guest dining experience.
The success of DoubleTree Fiji’s mushroom farming initiative underscores the resort’s dedication to sustainability, local engagement, and creating meaningful experiences that benefit both guests and the wider community. Through initiatives like this, DoubleTree Fiji contributes to Hilton’s Travel with Purpose commitment to drive responsible travel and build a positive future for people, communities, and the planet.
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REFERENCES: This guide is based on over a decade of research and firsthand experience living in Fiji. It incorporates extensive knowledge gained through long-term residence and ongoing engagement with the region. Images and text have been sourced from official references, which are acknowledged below, to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness.
Eneida Nieves, [Photograph], Freerange Stock, https://freerangestock.com/photographer/Eneida_Nieves/8719 [accessed 13 October 2025].
FOOTNOTES: Additional details, clarifications, or sources referenced in this article are included as Footnotes below the text when applicable; otherwise, no Footnotes are provided.