Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Extending in an arc off the coast of Viti Levu, the Mamanucas and Yasawa Islands are a
chain of beautiful palm-fringed islands with perfect white sandy beaches, placid lagoons
and picturesque resorts. This is Fiji's tourism gem, attracting thousands of visitors, es-
pecially from Australia and New Zealand. Thankfully, though, the islands remain re-
markably undeveloped - no building rises higher than a coconut palm and even on the
most popular islands it's possible to wander a short distance to find a secluded stretch
of beach. The focus here is on relaxation. Most visitors spend their days sunbathing,
snorkelling or scuba diving, with sightseeing limited to hiking between small villages or
trekking to a hilltop to see the sunset. Evenings are spent around the resort bar and res-
taurant which, apart from at a couple of backpacker resorts, tend to wind down around
10pm - this is no Bali or Ibiza, though there are plenty of opportunities to try
yaqona
(
kava
).
The thirty or so small islands of the
Mamanucas
lie just off the coast from Nadi making them
the most popular day-trip destination in Fiji. Budget accommodation and small
boutique re-
sorts
are scattered evenly around the group, some on tiny uninhabited
coral islands
and the
majority in secluded bays. Honeymooners, families and singles flock here between June and
October when Australia and New Zealand are gripped by winter; finding accommodation can
be difficult during this time.
Extending to the north of the Mamanucas is a long, thin string of fifteen volcanic masses
that make up the
Yasawa Islands
. These islands are slightly larger and more dramatic in ap-
pearance than their southern neighbours and, being further out from the tourist hub of Nadi,
are less commercialized. The
beaches
here are exquisite and the best way to see them is by
hopping on and off the fast
Yasawa Flyer
catamaran - the most popular
backpacker trail
in
Fiji - and staying at the many locally owned budget resorts along the way. For a little more
luxury, consider taking an overnight or week-long
cruise
, putting ashore at secluded beaches
and anchoring at fabulous coral reefs for snorkelling.
