REGION INTRO
Dangling off the coast of Nadi, this string of 20 idyllic islands are one of Fiji’s most popular and accessible island destinations. Regular daily boat transfers from Port Denarau on Denarau Island and even shorter flights from Nadi Airport get you to the beach quickly with plenty of time to spare for exploring the island and its garland of coral reefs. With thriving reefs, epic waves and a tranquil lagoon at their doorstep, the region is a perfect playground for water babies. Get your pulse racing with a daring wreck dive, surf world-class waves at Cloudbreak or race across the lagoon on thrilling jetskis.
https://www.fiji.travel/en/destination/mamanuca-islands
WHERE?
The Mamanuca Islands are the closest island group to the main island, Viti Levu, making them a favourite for holidaymakers and day-trippers. A short 30-minute boat rides put’s you at the start of this idyllic group of islands.
HOW TO GET THERE?
The Mamanucas are located just off the western coast of Viti Levu in a lagoon formed between the Great Sea Reef and the Mainland. Visible from the Nadi coastline it is easily accessible from the mainland. The islands are easily accessed from Denarau by boat, seaplane or helicopter. Many companies offer charters and transfer services and the local resorts also have their own transfers or can arrange it for you.
- Helicopter
- Charter Flight
- Island Resort Connections
- Private water taxi
- Cruise
PRESENTATION IN PROGRAMM
WHAT?
What are the Top 5 “Things To Do” in the region
1. Day Trip to a Private Island
In Fiji, an Island trip is an absolute must. It’s the easiest way to get your tropical island fix of beach lounging, reef snorkeling and watersports while being plied with a delicious buffet and cold drinks. Get there fast on a high-speed catamaran or soak up the scenery on a leisurely sailboat from Port Denarau and Vuda Marina. If you’re already in the region, just get your resort’s tour desk to arrange a pickup. Warning…you might have only one regret; with 20 spellbinding islands to explore, it might be hard just picking one.
2. Learn to Dive
Best known for flawless beaches and showstopping sunsets, the Mamanuca islands can add its calm, clear lagoon to its long list of charms. Thanks to the protection of an extensive barrier reef and numerous bommies and patch reefs within, snorkelling is spectacular and diving is breathtaking. It’s an ideal spot for novice divers to take their first breath underwater. Even with a bit more bottom time under your belt, the reef’s enchanting soft corals, rich fish life and diverse dives (walls, caves, drifts and wrecks) still has plenty to keep you engrossed. Brimming with places to stay and a well-established dive scene, we bet you’ll find diving here as pleasing as the scenery.
3. Surf Some Epic Waves
During the Fiji winter (April – October), big wave surfers from across the world haul their boards to the southern Mamanuca islands to surf Cloudbreak’s legendary 20ft (6m) swells. A championship wave that’s on the Top Ten list of every serious surfer, this notorious left-hander is not for the fainthearted. But there’s heaps of other fun waves like Wilkes, Namotu Lefts and Tavarua Rights to play out your surf fantasies on. The area is a watersports paradise so when you’re done with surfing, grab a SUP, foil or kiteboard and hone your other board skills. Tiny Tavurua and Namotu island resorts are touted as some of the best surf resorts on the planet and mere minutes from this wave playground. Book one of their popular rooms or head there on a boat charter from the mainland.
4. Visit Malamala Beach Club
The world’s first island beach club is a tiny drop of sandy perfection just 25-minutes from Port Denarau. A popular daytrip option, it has everything you love about beach clubs; from an eyepopping pool and chilled playlist right down to private cabanas and attentive butler service. But what you’ll really want to go for is the gorgeous vistas and mouth-watering menu. Malamala’s Pacific-infused a la carte menu bursts with tempting light bites and shared platters that’ll have your tastebuds doing flips. Paired with a delicious curated cocktail by the pool, it’s one of the most heavenly ways to unwind. When you’re ready to leave your daybed, grab a set of complimentary snorkels, kayaks or paddleboards and explore the warm shallows that wrap around the island. Day passes will get you discounts on the trip if you return within 7 days.
5. Chill Out on Cloud 9
Hovering above dazzling RoRo reef near Malolo island, Cloud 9’s floating two-tier bar is one the dreamiest spots to spend a lazy afternoon. In just under 15 minutes from Port Denarau you could be sunbathing on one of their loungers or doing somersaults off the top deck. Serving wood-fired pizzas, cool cocktails and laid-back tunes all day long, it’s the perfect mid-ocean party or chill out spot. Book some snorkels to explore the surrounding reef or pre-arrange more watersports for even more fun on the water.
DID YOU KNOW
- Did you know that the Tom Hanks movie CastAway was filmed on Monuriki island in the Mamanuca’s. (You can even visit the island on a day trip with South Seas Cruises - https://www.ssc.com.fj/day-cruises/seaspray-day-adventure/)
- Did you know that eight seasons of Survivor have been filmed in the Mamanuca Islands?
- Malolo Island is home to several resorts as well as the critically endangered Fijian Crested Iguana (insert picture of one)
Did you know that world champion surfer Kelly Slater, considers Cloudbreak one of his favorite waves?
WHY?
What are the Top 4 selling points for this region?
- Due to its close proximity to the mainland, the Mamanuca Islands are a great option for families with young children who are looking for an idyllic island experience. A range of family-friendly properties are on offer including favourites like Plantation Island Resort, Musket Cove, Treasure Island, Malolo Island Resort and Castaway.
- Consider a day trip to the Mamanucas if staying on Denarau. There are plenty of day-trip islands and also beach clubs like Cloud 9 and Malamala Beach Club
- The Mamanucas are known for its palm-fringed islands, white-sand beaches, coral reefs teeming with marine life. A great location for those looking to snorkel, dive and other watersports
- A great way to experience the Mamanuca Islands is by cruise ship. Captain Cook Cruises and Blue Lagoon Cruises offer short itineraries exploring these beautiful islands with a range of amazing shore excursions
WHO?
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- Backpacker/Youth
- Couples
- Diving
- Family
- Snorkelling
- Surfing
- Weddings
- Cruise