The Yasawa Islands in Fiji are home to a variety of mid-range resorts that offer a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. From the coral gardens of Barefoot Manta Island to the charming beachfront setting of Boathouse Nanuya, these resorts provide a perfect getaway for those seeking an authentic tropical escape. Whether it’s the lagoons at Coconut Beach Resort or the exceptional diving experiences at Mantaray Island Resort, the Yasawa Islands boast a range of options that cater to diverse tastes. With stunning landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and a deep connection to Fijian culture, these resorts ensure that visitors enjoy both adventure and serenity in equal measure.
| Venue | Rating |
|---|---|
| Barefoot Manta Island | 3 Star |
| Blue Lagoon Resort | 3.5 Star |
| Boathouse Nanuya | 3 Star |
| Coconut Beach Resort Fiji | Unknown |
| Mantaray Island Resort | 3 Star |
| Nanuya Island Resort | 3 Star |
| Oarsman’s Bay Lodge | 3 Star |
| Octopus Resort | 3.5 Star |
Barefoot Manta Island
Overview: Barefoot Manta Island, historically known as Drawaqa Island, is situated within the Southern Yasawa Islands. Renowned for its stunning coral gardens just offshore, this island is considered one of the most pristine locations in the Yasawa archipelago. The soothing sound of waves against the shore further enhances its appeal, making Barefoot Manta Island an ideal retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking an untouched Fijian paradise.
Accommodation: At Barefoot Manta Island, guests can enjoy simple yet comfortable lodging options. They have the choice between shared dormitory-style rooms or Traditional Bures, both equipped with communal facilities. For those seeking a more modern experience, Beachfront Bures offer a combined living area and private en-suite bathrooms.
Resort Dining: The dining experience at Barefoot Manta Island Resort features a blend of international and local Fijian dishes. The resort emphasizes locally sourced ingredients from the Yasawa Islands, including sustainably caught fish and produce from its own gardens, with additional supplies procured from the mainland.
Marine Conservation Centre: Barefoot Manta Island Resort is distinguished as the sole resort in Fiji with a dedicated Marine Conservation Centre, overseen by the in-house Marine Biologist, Rob MacFarlane. Rob’s deep commitment to conservation is reflected in the resort’s ongoing environmental programs.
Fiji Manta Rays: The resort enjoys a prime location, just a minute’s boat ride from a Manta Ray feeding area. From April to October, these majestic rays frequent a nutrient-rich channel between Drawaqa Island and Naviti Island. While sightings cannot be guaranteed, Manta Rays are typically present daily during the season.
Diving: Surrounding Barefoot Manta Island are over 40 dive sites, featuring diverse underwater landscapes such as swim-throughs, caves, coral gardens, pinnacles, and walls. The resort also offers wreck and night dives. Barefoot Manta Island Resort operates as an official SSI (Scuba Schools International) member and acknowledges PADI certifications, which contribute toward SSI Advanced Adventurer and SSI Advanced Open Water courses.
Blue Lagoon Resort
Overview: Blue Lagoon Resort is situated in Nacula Bay on the picturesque Nacula Island, located in the northern Yasawa Islands. Accessing the resort is a memorable experience, whether via a leisurely boat cruise through the islands or by seaplane, offering breathtaking views of expansive coral reefs and marine life.
Accommodation: Charlie’s Dormitory: Named in honor of Charlie, the beloved island dog who once guarded the resort during its construction, this dormitory area is a tribute to him. The air-conditioned dorms are cleaned daily and come with bath and beach towels, personal safes, and bedside tables. Each dorm features eight single beds (no bunks), with shared facilities nearby, all set in a peaceful garden environment.
Lagoon Bar & Restaurant: Dining at the Lagoon Bar & Restaurant is a central part of the Blue Lagoon experience. Guests have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers from around the globe in a communal dining setting, fostering new friendships. For those who prefer privacy, smaller tables are also available.
Activities: The resort offers numerous ways to unwind. Comfortable daybeds are positioned around the beach and pool area, perfect for watching children play, reading a book, or simply enjoying the stunning ocean views, Nacula’s hills, and the nearby swaying coconut palms.
Paddle Boarding: Experience paddle boarding in one of the calmest bays on the island. Glide over crystal-clear waters and observe the vibrant marine life, including fish, coral reefs, and champagne-colored sands below.
Diving: With approximately 30 dive sites, Blue Lagoon Resort provides an exceptional diving experience. Explore our impressive reefs, walls, drop-offs, swim-throughs, and even partake in a unique Shark Encounter dive. Dive sites range from 3 to 25 minutes away by boat, with all dives guided and scheduled three times daily at 9 am, 11 am, and 3 pm. Shore dives can be arranged upon request. Equipment and guides are provided. The resort’s waters are renowned for frequent sightings of turtles, lobsters, nudibranchs, and more. The Shark Encounter dive offers a chance to see black and white tip reef sharks, lemon sharks, and bull sharks in their natural habitat. PADI courses are available from introductory dives and Open Water certifications to Dive Master and various specialty dives such as Deep, Search and Recovery, and Shark Awareness.
Hiking and Running Trails: Blue Lagoon Resort features a network of trails starting at the base of the hill behind the resort. These trails lead to hidden mangroves, secluded beaches, rain forest canopies, and mud crab flats, offering a true tropical island adventure. Maps for running and walking trails are available, catering to solo hikers and families alike. Enjoy panoramic views, local wildlife sightings, and private beaches while exploring the natural beauty of Fiji.
Boathouse Nanuya
Overview: Boathouse Nanuya, situated on the stunning Blue Lagoon Bay of Nanuya Lai Lai Island, offers a casual and charming beachfront experience. Nestled next to the renowned Nanuya Island Resort in Fiji’s Yasawa Islands, this versatile facility combines dining, beverages, and accommodation, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Accommodation: Perched on the hillside amid lush tropical flora, Boathouse Nanuya features ten comfortable rooms with spectacular views of the Blue Lagoon. Accommodations include double rooms with king beds, twin rooms, and configurable triple rooms (with either a king and a single bed or three single beds). Each room includes an en-suite bathroom for added convenience.
Dormitories: The facility also offers budget-friendly dormitory-style accommodations. There are two six-bed dormitories: one for men on the lower level and one for women on the upper level, each with shared bathroom facilities.
Dining: Boathouse Nanuya takes pride in its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The daily meal plan includes a tropical continental breakfast featuring plantation-grown fruits, freshly baked pastries, bread, and a variety of condiments, served buffet style. The facility also operates a General Store for additional convenience.
Spa Treatments: Guests can enhance their stay with rejuvenating spa treatments at the nearby Nanuya Lai Lai Lagoon Day Spa. This sister resort offers a comprehensive menu of health, body, and beauty treatments. From traditional hair braiding and waxing to signature facials and massages, treatments range from 30 minutes to 3 hours. The friendly Boathouse Crew can assist with appointments to ensure a relaxing and revitalizing experience.
Social Hub: The Boathouse Bar provides a laid-back atmosphere perfect for singles, couples, and groups. It serves as a social gathering spot for travelers to connect and share their Yasawa Island experiences.
Mantaray Island Resort
Overview: Mantaray Island Resort is nestled in the pristine Northern Yasawa, renowned for its exceptional coral reefs and marine life. The island provides an ideal setting for both relaxation and adventure, with diving opportunities that cater to all skill levels. A stay at Mantaray Island Resort promises an unforgettable dive holiday experience.
Accommodation: Mantaray Island Resort offers a range of accommodation options to fit various budgets and preferences. For travelers seeking affordable lodging, the resort’s 32-bed air-conditioned Paradise Dorm provides a cost-effective choice. For those looking for a bit more luxury, the resort features newly built villas that offer upgraded amenities and enhanced comfort.
Dining: Guests at Mantaray Island Resort can savor some of the finest cuisine in the Yasawa Islands. The dining experience includes a variety of options: Continental buffet breakfasts, A la carte lunches, Three-course a la carte dinners, Specialty buffet evenings
. The menu is crafted by the Executive Chef, emphasizing fresh, locally caught fish and seasonal tropical fruits. The resort accommodates a range of dietary needs and offers a variety of vegetarian dishes. Meals are designed to provide a delightful culinary journey for every guest.
Activities: Mantaray Island Resort caters to both relaxation and activity enthusiasts. Guests can choose to unwind on beach loungers and hammocks scattered throughout the resort, or engage in a range of exciting activities. The resort’s commitment to safety includes having all Activities Team members certified in Australian Surf Life Saving and trained in emergency procedures. Life jackets are available for guests participating in kayaking or snorkeling, and guided trips can be arranged for those less confident in the water.
Water-Based Activities: The resort offers a variety of water activities for all levels of interest. Whether it’s snorkeling, kayaking, or sailing, the clear, warm waters of the Yasawa Islands provide a perfect playground.
Diving: Mantaray Island Resort is surrounded by stunning coral reefs, making it a prime location for diving. The resort’s dive sites cater to all levels of expertise, from beginners to experienced divers. The underwater landscape includes caves, walls, caverns, pinnacles, and coral gardens. Night dives and drift dives are also available, ensuring a diverse diving experience in one of the world’s top diving destinations.
Eco Tourism: The natural beauty of the Yasawa Islands is a major draw, and Mantaray Island Resort is dedicated to preserving this environment. The resort’s commitment to eco-tourism extends beyond environmental conservation to include social responsibility. The resort strives to enhance the quality of life for the local village community and was a finalist in the Sustainable Tourism category at the Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards in 2012.
Spear and Hand-Line Fishing: For fishing enthusiasts, Mantaray Island Resort offers two types of spearfishing experiences:
- Reef or Green Water Spearing: Explore local reefs for species like coral trout, mangrove jack, and crayfish.
- Blue Water Spearing: Venture to deeper waters to hunt wahoo, yellowfin tuna, and mahi-mahi.
- Handline Fishing: The resort also offers hand-line fishing charters on the “Bubbles,” where guests can enjoy a relaxing afternoon fishing adventure.
At Mantaray Island Resort, guests are ensured a blend of adventure and relaxation in a stunning natural setting, making it an ideal destination for a memorable tropical escape.
Nanuya Island Resort
Overview: Nestled on the sunset side of the serene Nanuya Lailai Island, Nanuya Island Resort offers an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This pristine retreat features breathtaking white sandy beaches, crystal-clear blue lagoons, and lush palm-fringed surroundings, promising a true slice of paradise.
Accommodation: At Nanuya Island Resort, the focus is on enhancing the guest experience with a variety of accommodation options to suit every preference and budget. For a touch of exclusivity, the resort offers a unique Luxury Villa with secure access, private gardens, and panoramic 270-degree views of the Blue Lagoon. Superior Villas with interconnecting options are ideal for families or groups traveling together.
The Deluxe Villas, situated near the beachfront, accommodate up to four guests, while the Treetop Bures provide a secluded retreat amidst the foliage, often with views over the water and resort grounds. With a range of choices, each guest is sure to find the perfect setting for their vacation.
Dining: Dining at Tabau Restaurant is a highlight of the Nanuya Island Resort experience. The restaurant does not offer a meal package; instead, guests have the flexibility to choose their meals from an extensive menu. The daily changing breakfast, lunch, and dinner options blend Fijian flavors with Western influences, catering to various tastes and dietary requirements. Special dietary needs should be communicated prior to arrival to ensure a tailored dining experience.
Activities: Embrace the ocean-centric activities that define life at Nanuya Island Resort. Located beside a magnificent turquoise lagoon, the resort provides a perfect setting for snorkeling, swimming, kayaking, sailing, and glass-bottom boat rides. Guests can also enjoy a serene sunset cruise or explore secluded islands and beaches for a private retreat.
Spa: For relaxation after a day of activities, the Nanuya Lailai Lagoon Day Spa offers a sanctuary of rejuvenation. The spa features a range of health, body, and beauty treatments designed to revitalize both body and mind. In line with the resort’s sustainability ethos, the spa uses and sells the locally produced ‘Essence of Fiji’ natural skincare products, which harness marine and plant extracts for their healing properties.
Sustainability: Nanuya Island Resort is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the Yasawa Islands. The resort operates with a strong focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, aiming to minimize its environmental footprint. The goal is to offer a memorable vacation experience while maintaining a minimal impact on the local ecology and culture.
Celebrations & Events: Nanuya Island Resort is an ideal location for special occasions and celebrations. Whether it’s a wedding, honeymoon, birthday, or family reunion, the resort’s picturesque setting beside the lagoon and lush tropical backdrop ensures a memorable event. The dedicated team at Nanuya Island Resort is committed to making every celebration unique and unforgettable.
Meetings: For corporate events, Nanuya Island Resort offers a distinctive setting away from the usual conference environment. While the resort is not suited for large-scale conferences, it is perfect for smaller events such as mini-conferences, staff training seminars, brainstorming sessions, or team-building retreats. After a productive day, guests can unwind in the resort’s crystal-clear waters, adding a refreshing touch to business proceedings.
Oarsman’s Bay Lodge
Overview: Situated at the northern tip of the secluded Yasawa Islands, Oarsman’s Bay Lodge is one of just four resorts on Nacula Island, the third-largest island in the Yasawa chain. Guests are drawn to its stunning locale, characterized by crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white sand beaches, and lush volcanic peaks. Catering to honeymooners, families, couples, and solo travelers, Oarsman’s Bay Lodge offers a variety of accommodation options for the ideal tropical getaway.
Accommodation: Oarsman’s Bay Lodge provides flexible lodging options on the rural Nacula Island. The lodge features eight recently renovated private bures (Fijian for houses) and a shared dormitory for budget-conscious travelers. Whether traveling alone, with a partner, or in a group, the lodge’s diverse accommodations cater to all preferences and budgets.
Dining: Fijian cuisine is deeply influenced by its oceanic surroundings, with staples including rice, cassava, coconut, and fish. The arrival of Indian migrants in the 1870s to work in the sugarcane fields introduced vibrant ‘Fijian-Indo’ flavors, resulting in a culinary tradition rich with colorful curries and spices.
Explore: Oarsman’s Bay Lodge offers a variety of relaxing and adventurous activities in the Yasawa Islands. For an authentic Fijian experience, guests can visit a local school or village, and are even invited to attend the local church service on Sundays, providing a genuine glimpse into Fijian life.
A visit to the school is a notable highlight, and exploring the village during the week provides insight into island life. Don’t forget to bring a bit of small change to purchase beautiful souvenirs from local artisans.
Relax: Fiji is renowned as a premier destination for relaxation, and the laid-back pace of life on the Yasawa Islands contrasts starkly with the hustle of Viti Levu. Embracing ‘Fiji Time’—a concept that celebrates slowing down, savoring moments, and deepening connections—guests will find themselves adopting a more leisurely pace, breathing more deeply, and finding peace in the serene environment.
Culture: Nacula Island’s remote location has preserved strong Fijian cultural traditions. Unlike the staged cultural shows found on the main island, Nacula offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Fijian life. Visitors can engage with local villagers, learn traditional crafts like basket weaving and coconut husking, and, depending on timing, may have the opportunity to experience a traditional lovo, where food is cooked underground.
Octopus Resort
Overview: At Octopus Resort, visitors can explore some of the finest snorkeling and diving opportunities in Fiji. Emphasizing Fijian culture and maintaining a strong bond with the local village, the resort epitomizes the essence of Fiji and is renowned for its exceptionally warm and friendly staff. Guests are invited to experience the authentic spirit of Fiji and are eagerly awaited by the team.
Accommodation: Dave’s Dorm: Octopus Resort, a picturesque destination since 2002, has always provided an affordable option for young travelers seeking to discover Fiji’s splendor and enchantment. The presence of youthful adventurers from around the globe contributes to the vibrant atmosphere of the resort, enhancing the experience with their diverse travel stories. The resort features two air-conditioned dormitory rooms, each accommodating seven guests, as part of its hostel offerings.
Diving: The resort is home to its own PADI dive center, offering guests the chance to explore some of the most pristine dive sites in the Yasawa Group. Guests can begin and complete a PADI dive course right on-site before returning home. Octopus boasts nearly 40 dive sites, including reefs, walls, drop-offs, swim-throughs, pinnacles, and two remarkable wreck dives. Dive sites range from 3 to 25 minutes away by boat, with guided dives available three times daily at 9 am, 11 am, and 2 pm, and a single or two-tank dive in the afternoon on Sundays. Shore dives can be arranged upon request, and all necessary equipment and guides are provided.
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.
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