FIJI: The Ultimate Guide to Island Hopping in Paradise
All you need to know about Fiji
After our epic adventures in Australia and Vanuatu, we finally touched down in a place that has been on my bucket list for years: Fiji! If you’re looking for white sandy beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and the friendliest locals on the planet, look no further. In this blog, I’ll take you along our journey through the Yasawa Islands, the Coral Coast, and the famous filming locations of ‘Cast Away’. This is the ultimate travel guide to Fiji!
Heading North: The Wild Yasawa Islands
Our journey started early with a 4-hour ferry ride on the “Sea Bus” towards the Yasawa Islands. Although the sea was a bit rough, the reward was more than worth it. We stayed at the Coral View Island Resort on Tavewa Island.
What makes this place special? It’s remote. There are no villages or restaurants nearby, meaning you are completely disconnected from daily life. Our traditional Fijian bure (cabin) was just steps away from the ocean. Because there are no roads or shops here, all meals are included, making it the perfect place to clear your mind.
Furthermore, the snorkeling here is world-class. I’ve traveled the world for decades, and people always told me: “Wout, the Yasawas have the best coral.” They weren’t lying! The underwater world is a stunning vibrant garden filled with turtles and colorful fish.
Exploring the Main Island: Viti Levu by car
After a week of island bliss, it was time to see how the locals live on the mainland. We rented a car from with Discover Cars and headed north to the small town of Rakiraki.
The Remote North (Rakiraki)
The landscape here is surprisingly mountainous and lush. We stayed at the Dua Dua Beach Resort, which offered a stunning view over the mangroves. One of the best things we did was hire a boat to explore the northern peninsula. We found tiny, uninhabited islands like Nananu-i-Ra, where we were the only people within a 10km radius. If you want that true “Robinson Crusoe” feeling, this is the place to be.
The Coral Coast and the "Salad Bowl"
Next, we drove South towards Sigatoka. This area is famous for the Sigatoka Valley, also known as “Fiji’s Salad Bowl.” The fertile soil produces incredible fruits and vegetables. We stayed at a local homestay where our host brought us fresh papayas, bananas, and coconuts straight from the garden for breakfast.
Mango Bay: Living the Moana Dream
When we drove into the valley of Mango Bay, we genuinely had to pinch ourselves. As we overlooked a landscape filled with thousands of swaying palm trees, it felt like we had discovered the real-life ‘Motunui’ from Disney’s Moana.
The resort called Mango Bay Resort is designed entirely in the style of a traditional Fijian village, which creates an incredibly authentic atmosphere. This is no coincidence; the creators of the movie drew heavy inspiration from the rich cultures of Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga for their settings and vibe. We found an unprecedented sense of peace here, surrounded by pure nature.
We grabbed a kayak and paddled out into the crystal-clear blue bay, making sure—as the movie wisely advises—to stay within the safety of the reef! Back on land, we dived deeper into local traditions during a basket-weaving workshop. It is truly admirable to see how the locals transform simple palm fronds into beautiful bags and tools in a matter of minutes. Whether you want to relax by the pool or explore the ocean, at Mango Bay, it feels like you’re living on a movie set.
The Mamanuca Islands
Just west of Nadi lie the Mamanuca Islands, a group of twenty volcanic islands that look like emeralds dropped into a turquoise sea. This is the iconic location where Tom Hanks filmed Cast Away.
While some of these islands are so tiny they almost disappear at high tide, we chose to visit South Sea Island. It’s only a 30-minute boat ride from Port Denarau, making it the perfect day trip. Unlike Tom Hanks, we didn’t have to struggle for survival; the island offers a great all-inclusive concept with a massive buffet and cold beers. Whether you’re snorkeling in the crystal-clear marine reserve or kayaking around the entire island in ten minutes, it’s the ultimate way to enjoy the Mamanuca vibe in comfort.
Likuri Island: The Robinson Crusoe Experience
For a more traditional and affordable paradise, we headed to Likuri Island, also known as Robinson Crusoe Island. To get there, we took a 30-minute boat trip down the Tuva River, cruising through lush mangroves until the island appeared on the horizon. This place is a hidden gem: we stayed in a traditional cottage right on the beach for only $50 a night! But the real highlight is the culture. Likuri is famous for hosting the most bombastic Fijian culture show in the country. From traditional dances to a spectacular fire show under the stars, the energy here is unmatched. It’s the perfect getaway if you want an authentic, “off-the-grid” experience without traveling too far from the mainland.
Essential Travel Tips for Fiji
Fiji is so much more than just a luxury honeymoon destination; it’s a place where music follows you everywhere and the “Bula” spirit makes you feel like family instantly. To help you plan your own South Pacific adventure, here are our top practical tips:
Best Time to Visit: The best weather is during the “winter” (May to October). We had great conditions, but keep in mind that even in the dry season, a tropical shower can happen. If you want to avoid the crowds and high prices, aim for the shoulder months like May or October.
Budget & Currency: The local currency is the Fijian Dollar (FJD). While the big resorts are pricey, Fiji can be surprisingly affordable. We stayed at Likuri Island for just $50 a night in a traditional beach cottage! Local meals and markets are also very budget-friendly.
Getting Around: On the main island, Viti Levu, renting a car is a game-changer. It allowed us to explore the “Salad Bowl” valley and remote northern beaches at our own pace. For island hopping, the “Sea Bus” or the “Yasawa Flyer” are your best bets, but be prepared for a bumpy ride if the sea is rough!
Culture & Etiquette: Don’t leave without attending a Kava ceremony or a traditional fire show. Remember to dress modestly when visiting local villages (cover your shoulders and knees) and always remove your hat as a sign of respect.
Watch our Fiji Travel Guide video below
TRAVEL TIP FOR FIJI!
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