Fiji Islands Escape

Upon arrival at Nadi International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your driver who will transfer you to your accommodation at Denarau Island, Fiji’s most popular playground. Our hotel is directly opposite Port Denarau, the gateway to the islands. Nestled safely and securely within lush tropical garden vegetation, it is just a 20-minute drive from the airport and a 1-minute walk from Port Denarau bars, restaurants, and entertainment. Depending on your flight arrival time, you may have some free time to explore the island, take a stroll on the beach, or simply relax and unwind.

This morning, we’ll leave the Denarau Marina at 8:45 am on a high-speed catamaran for a 4.5-hour adventure to Nacula Island, the jewel of the Yasawa Islands, and the third largest in the Yasawa Island chain. We’ll make stops along the way in the most scenic channels and bays, picking up and dropping off travelers and resort hoppers who are moving on to their next slice of paradise. Snacks and refreshments are available on the catamaran, and there is seating for 250 guests, both inside (air-conditioned) and outside.

The Yasawa Islands consist of about 20 volcanic islands that are spread out over an area of 135 square kilometers, with six main islands and several small ones. The extensive group of mountainous islands, some with peaks reaching as high as 600 meters above sea level, makes this the quintessential paradise that lies Northwest of the main island of Viti Levu. The region is a haven for nature lovers, and the natural exotic beauty of the islands has earned them spots in numerous Hollywood movies. 

Located on the northern tip of the remote Yasawa Islands, our resort is one of just four on the island of Nacula. Situated on one of the most stunning stretches of beach fringing the Blue Lagoon, this is one of the most photographed locations in the Yasawas. There is excellent swimming and snorkeling at all tides as the lagoon out front is a Marine Protected Area. With comfortable day beds surrounding the beach and pool, this is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the views of the ocean, the surrounding Nacula hills, and the incredible coconut trees swaying nearby.

The remote location of Nacula Island means the culture and traditions of the Fijian people are strong. Unlike the cultural ‘shows’ staged for many travelers who do not make it off the main island of Fiji, life on Nacula Island is simple, harmonious with nature, and uncomplicated. This afternoon, we’ll visit the local village, offering you the chance to learn about the local culture and catch a glimpse of real Fijian Island life.  

No trip to the Yasawa Islands is complete without a visit to the majestic Sawa-I-Lau Caves. It is a must-do for travelers visiting Fiji’s spectacular Blue Lagoon, so that’s exactly what we’ll be doing this morning. The scenic, ancient limestone caves located just 30 minutes (by boat) from our resort were carved over many years by water and are known as the resting place of the ancient Fijian ten-headed god Uliutini. According to legend, a young chief once hid with his beloved in the cave after her family threatened to marry her off to a rival chief. Every day, he would swim into this secret haven with food for the girl until they eventually escaped to an island together, where they lived happily ever after. There are two main limestone caverns, and they are dominated by luminous saltwater swimming pools; the first is lit by a natural overhead vent, and the second is a more secretive cave, only accessible via an underwater tunnel. Wow!

This afternoon, you’ll have some free time to relax or for those looking for a bit more action, try some paddleboarding or kayaking, or go for a hike. Just at the base of the hill behind the resort is a labyrinth of hiking trails leading to hidden mangroves, isolated beaches, and rainforest canopied walks. Follow the trail up the mountain for 360 panoramic views over the entire island.

This morning, enjoy some leisurely time before we jump back on board the high-speed catamaran to take us to another resort on Naukacuvu Island. This island is directly across from Narara Island, and together they share a sheltered lagoon, which makes it perfect for kayaking. There is also excellent snorkeling right from the beach. 

Our 5-star resort on Naukacuvu Island is nestled in a stunning cove surrounded by champagne sand and crystal clear ocean. We are the only resort on the island, and Narara Island is not inhabited, so there will be plenty of places to relax. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a traditional Fijian Kava ceremony. Kava is the national drink of Fiji and is made from the root of the pepper tree. 

This morning, try a rejuvenating yoga class. Enjoy the sea breezes and uninterrupted views of the ocean; you’ll be amazed at how energized and wonderful you will feel. Every day, there are various activities on offer, such as snorkeling tours, scuba diving, island excursions, hiking, cultural village tours, and much more. Today, you are free to choose what you’d like to do. With 35 different diving and snorkeling sites, Paradise Cove offers an incredible number of opportunities to explore the underwater world. They also have a PADI diving school, so it’s perfect for beginners who want to get certified. If you’d prefer, spend your day in paradise choosing to laze away the day on a sun lounger by the resort pool, snooze in a hammock, or float in the calm seas. 

This afternoon, we’ll depart our resort at 3pm for the return back to Port Denarau. This evening, we’ll choose a restaurant to have one final dinner before we say ‘Moce’ (pronounced ‘mo-they’ and means goodbye) to our new lifelong friends we’ve met on this adventure.

Today is departure day, and at the appropriate time, a representative will be waiting to transfer you to the Nadi Airport.