The resort's luxury bungalows are hidden among the palm trees. The culture couldn't be more authentic here with villages on almost every island, while some of Fiji's most iconic marine activities, such as swimming with manta rays and sharks, can also be found here. Check out your options in our list of 5 Luxury Resorts in the Yasawa Islands. Island-hopping is a fun and exciting way to explore the Fiji Islands. Experience the stunning islands from on board a floating hotel/cruise ship or a chartered sailing boat. There are 15 words in the Fijian language meaning Heaven and 'Yasawa' is the first. High-End Resorts: If you value the finer things in life or are looking for a resort-type experience, then you can find it in Fiji. On the evening of the second day, we joined the festivities and entertainment of a Fijian Village at Gunu. The main season for this is between May and October, outside of this tours are not offered. Each cruises of varying length offers a rare insight into remote villages and glorious beaches and a glimpse of Fiji of older times with deceptions of local cultures and history. The islands were later visited by Christian missionaries who arrived in 1835. English is the official language and is widely spoken in Fiji, which is a great relief for travelers and makes it easy to get around. Everything costs double there. Check out our 10 Accommodations in the Yasawa Islands for Foodies. For more inspiration, check out our10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in the Yasawa Islands. View Post THE BEST Overwater Bungalows in Bora Bora 2023Continue. The Yasawan people live as they have done for centuries, keeping the spirit of the islands alive with their traditional and simple lifestyle. Weve done the research, made the trip and have the answers to help you plan depending on your travel style. Sea planes from local airlines (like Turtle Airways) make multiple flights to the Yasawa resorts per day, and charters are also available. The Yasawa Islands were actually closed to tourists up until 1987. Welcome to Fiji's Yasawa Islands, and a place known as the Sawa-i-Lau Caves. See more treat yourself activities in our list of10 Best Luxury Experiences in the Yasawa Islands. Castaway Island Fiji. A scattering of islands with sandy shores and rugged volcanic peaks awaits in the Yasawa Group. Alternatively, you can charter a seaplane right to your private beach. I needed the extra snacks since we were active so much of the time. 2023-02-15. You can check prices, live seat availability and make immediate confirmed bookings for your . The area still has many backpacking and adventure resorts think diving with thebullsharksfrom Barefoot Kuata and swimming with Manta Rays from Manta Ray Resort. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Fiji. I woke up early on the third day of the cruise and was excited to explore and swim in the beautiful Sawa-i-lau lagoon! February, March and April can be a good time, as can September, October and November. . Yasawa Island Resort has an "all-inclusive" policy where everything is included in your stay, with the exception of alcohol. The grounds are stunning, they have an adults-only pool area, nanny service, several delicious restaurants, and the staff is amazing. Set on one of Fiji's most remote islands and surrounded by 11 beaches, the Yasawa Island Resort offers stunning ocean views, a restaurant and day spa. Many would argue that between May and October is the best time to visit the Yasawa Islands for the driest weather and for the manta ray season. Flights: Going is the first place we check when searching for cheap flights. By using this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and terms of use within it which includes sponsored posts and affiliate links. Of course, there is always some leeway for personal interests and spending habits, but this budget information should provide a good baseline for your planning. Location. Some quick facts: Where is Fiji? 3 Referenced. You can find great value dorm rooms or guest houses across the archipelago, but still, remember that prices for food and drink will be inflated due to the remoteness of the islands. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a38bfd85866b9387e046536620b7bd1d" );document.getElementById("d2f8ec4791").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); We are David & Lina Stock, a married couple from NW Wisconsin who have been traveling together since 2001. 2 See also. You canlearnmore about us here. Viwa Island Resort Questions & Answers 258 Reviews Ranked #4 of 13 Hotels in Yasawa Islands Mandy1015. This property is located on Yasawa Island, accessible via inter-island flights from Nadi International Airport (NAN). Yasawa Island Resort and Spa is inclusive of all gourmet meals & snacks, all non-alcoholic beverages, and complimentary wi in all of our public spaces. You can find Yasawa Islands accommodation for every single budget. Visit the tropical garden paradise of Taveuni, renowned for world-class diving opportunities, marvel at the Savusavu extinct volcanic crater, and discover the remote northern islands of Fiji. Budget Estimations for the Yasawa Islands: Backpacking Budget: $200 FJD per day will get you a dorm bed, island hopping pass and hostel meals. Welcome to Turtle Island, a 500-acre private island retreat located in Fiji's Yasawa Islands. Daily meal plans at hostels and budget hotels will cost around $120 FJD per day for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The Fiji Meteorological Service states a hurricane warning remains in force for Conway Reef and open waters in the southern parts of Fiji's . With 333 islands nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, Fiji is Where Happiness Finds You. I stayed at The Radisson Blu Resort Fiji and absolutely loved everything about it. Our inclusion of all standard activities (kayaks, stand up paddle boards, tennis, guided walks, catamaran, etc) plus all scheduled activities like Village Visits, half day Blue Lagoon Caves trips, guided snorkelling trips and private beach picnics make a stay at Yasawa incredible value and offers you a stress free way to enjoy your Fiji holiday. Guests must transfer during daylight hours and allow 2 hours between connections. Get more advice in The Adults-Only Guide to the Yasawa Islands. Welcome/Bula! Without tourism, the local residents lived in peace and harmony in a communal atmosphere. Hop-on-hop-off passes start at around FJ$300 for five days. A scattering of islands with sandy shores and rugged volcanic peaks awaits in the Yasawa Group. Establishing a budget for the Yasawa Islands doesnt have to be a challenge. Navutu Stars Resort. You dont need to book it before you arrive in Fiji. and the diving staff is super nice and knowledgeable. Denominations for the Fiji dollar are as follows: $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 notes. The waters around the Yasawa Islands are remarkably still, especially in the dry season. Contact Disclaimer, Sweet Ice Cream Photography on Unsplash, Information, Shops & Services in the Yasawa Islands. Below are some of our favorite dive sites in the Yasawa Islands: One of the main reasons to visit the Yasawa Islands is for the beaches. The only guests allowed to stay in these exclusive resorts must be over the age of 16 years old. What are the must-dos? It is an island nation set just below the equator in the South Pacific. Set on one of Fiji's most remote islands and surrounded by 11 beaches, Yasawa Island Resort offers stunning ocean views, a restaurant and day spa. NZ+6435885045|AUST+61731886108| USA(888)9774891| UK+441172051731 The best way to get from Nadi to Yasawa Islands costs only $204 and takes just 4 hours. The islands themselves are small and can generally be traversed on foot or by boat. It is possible to visit the Yasawa Islands on a backpacker budget, with high end luxury and everything in between. Perfect for couples on a romantic getaway, honeymoon or wedding, Navutu Stars is a five-star adult-only resort. This luxurious all-inclusive getaway also happens to be one of the most romantic resorts in the region. Turtle Island Fiji is a small beachfront resort on a dreamy, 500-acre private island in Fiji. For many, joining a local Kava ceremony and trying this alcoholic and mildly sedative drink is one of the best things to do in Fiji. The Yasawa Islands are a small archipelago consisting of around 20 islands and atolls. Luxury Resort. This offers the perfect opportunity to hop in the water with them. No matter where you find yourself staying in the Yasawa Islands, youll want to arrange a day trip to swim with Manta Rays at Barefoot Manta Island. There are 20 volcanic islands that make up the group, each one offering incredibly diving ( I actually learned to dive here ), snorkeling, and hiking. a very cool place to stay - the staff is extremely nice and welcoming. Dont worry, reef sharks are docile and as long as you are respectful, do not mind having snorkelers observing them from above. European contact was made in 1789 by Captain William Bligh. Guests to villages must visit by invitation or tour only. All beachfront bures (rooms) showcase their stunning location and incorporate elements of traditional Fiji design and building materials. With a cruise, you can see multiple islands in one trip, and stop to explore each one at your own pace. The southern Yasawas are ruggedly magnificent, while the northern islands frame the famous Blue Lagoon where, as the name suggests, the water is the most inviting shades of blue you will ever see! The Yasawa Islands are a chain of islands in Fiji, located off the northwest coast of Viti Levu. The last day of the cruise was definitely bittersweet. The cavernous cave can only be reached by boat, and inside you can find gleaming turquoise water and hidden, underwater tunnels connecting smaller caves. highly recommended if you The Yasawa Flyer makes two stops on the island of Nacula: in the far south of the island in front of the Nabua Lodge and in front of the Blue Lagoon Beach Resort. The most common way to travel the Yasawa Islands is aboard the Yasawa flyer ferry, booking a multi-day cruise, or booking a one-day cruise. Pickup. Theres an exceptional range of dive sites surrounding the islands and you can join day trips that head to more remote parts of the coral, areas that are virtually undisturbed by tourism. Elope or reserve the entire resort for your friends and loved ones. The ship was modern and comfortable, and the staff was knowledgeable and extremely friendly. Island hopping in Fiji is one of the most epic trips you can make in the South Pacific. Explorer Cruise - 3 Nights. Yasawa Island is among the most remote and untouched isles of Fiji, yet still only a 35-minute flight from the international airport at Nadi. But it is because of their remoteness that commercial development has never taken hold. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it. Let us eliminate the stress and help you plan your perfect day. Later in the day, we visited a local school on Yasawa Island. I'm Christy Woodrow and I started this adventure travel blog in 2010 to provide trip ideas and helpful travel tips for people with limited vacation time. Exchange your vows on the sands of a deserted beach, before a tropical sunset or under the southern stars. Alternatively, a ferry runs between Lautoka (a short drive from Nadi) and several islands and resorts in the Yasawas. While the Yasawas might see like an exclusive resort paradise, it is important to remember that the people that own and operate many of the properties still live on the islands. The Yasawa Islands are usually grouped together with the Mamanuca Islands, another small archipelago found to the south. These estimations above include the necessities of your visit, but dont account for spending on souvenirs, excess tours, etc. Just avoid any school holidays. On the fourth day, the last full day of the cruise, we sailed to Drawaqa Island for some amazing snorkeling. The British navigator William Bligh was the first European to sight the Yasawas in 1789, following the Mutiny on the Bounty. It is far --almost the whole way to New . The Yasawa Islands are located in the Western Division of Fiji, off the northwest side of Fijis main islands, Viti Levu. The sacred Sawa i lau Caves are also known as the resting place of the ten-headed ancient Fijian god, Ulutini. For more info please read myPrivacy Policy. A family holiday in the Yasawa Islands is much more about spending time together than apart in the kids clubs (although there are some kids clubs available). If you decide to check out this unique part of the world, I promise you wont regret it! If your idea of Fiji time is enjoying a holiday undisturbed, then consider an adult-only holiday in the Yasawa Islands. I really enjoyed every minute of this cruise. The clear waters make for excellent snorkeling and diving, and there are many caves and reefs to explore. The best time for diving is between May and October when the water visibility is at its best and when you can find large numbers of Manta Rays in the water. Yasawa Islands Explorer Cruise with Lunch 21 9 hours Free Cancellation From $102.89 SUP Adventure Ibiza (stand up paddle , snorkeling ,kayaking) VIP 28 4 hours Free Cancellation From $95.90 Jet-ski excursions (NO license needed) 25 2 hours Free Cancellation From $106.67 Boat Beach and Cave Tour Experience 3 3 hours Free Cancellation From $75.43 More information about Turtle Island Resort. Prices range from FJ$100 to FJ$160 one way. Coordinates: .mw-parser-output .geo-default,.mw-parser-output .geo-dms,.mw-parser-output .geo-dec{display:inline}.mw-parser-output .geo-nondefault,.mw-parser-output .geo-multi-punct{display:none}.mw-parser-output .longitude,.mw-parser-output .latitude{white-space:nowrap}1655S 17720E / 16.917S 177.333E / -16.917; 177.333. Island Hunters #IslandHunters All New Sundays at 10p|9c Main Episodes Five Essential Beachy Gadgets for Island Hunters If you owned an island, what are the five things you couldn't live without? WiFi is spotty so do your research before you board. We've helped thousands of people plan their travels over the past 12 years. Located off the coast of Fijis mainland, the Yasawa Islands are a small archipelago made up of tall, rocky peaks surrounded by pristine white sands and turquoise-blue lagoons. The Yasawas are a chain of 20 sun-drenched islands stretching northeasterly from the top of the Mamanucas 90 km / 54 miles out into Bligh Water. The Yasawa Islands lie in a line running north from the Mamanuca Island group, up to the north-east of the main island Viti Levu. Any trip away from home should be a treat for the tastebuds and thats certainly the case for a trip to the Yasawa Islands. Dont leave home without: Lonely Planet Fiji (Travel Guide). There were limited cruise operations since the 1950s, but passengers had to stay aboard their ships. The Yasawas are known for their dramatic peaks and pristine beaches. I got to explore so many remote northern islands and meet local communities that I would never have been able to visit on my own. The surrounding waters are alive with colourful fish and coral. All accommodation at Yasawa Resort features Fijian dcor and a patio offering ocean and beach views. This as tropical depression 09F has intensified into a category one tropical cyclone and was named Kevin around 9am today . Learn More. They start around $200 FJD. You can browse hotel reviews and find the guaranteed best price on hotels for all budgets. Start planning your romantic getaway with the Wedding, Honeymoon & Romantic Getaway Guide to the Yasawa Islands. More information about Navutu Stars Resort. This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Fiji Pocket Guide. You will be limited to what is offered by the property you are staying at. To contact us directly, use our contact page. Find out more about family travel to the Yasawas in The Guide to the Yasawa Islands for Families. Paying as you go can cost around 100 FJD each trip. COVID-19 Travel restrictions may apply. Each island in the archipelago is stunning and completely unique. It comprises six large islands and fourteen smaller ones, and has a total area of 135 sq km. Navutu /star is a small Boutique Resort spreading along three bays in the Yasawa Islands, where it is possible to experience authentic Fiji in a comfortable, private and inspiring atmosphere. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. White sandy beach, fabulous snorkeling, amazing diving only minutes away. Discovery, Inc. or its subsidiaries and affiliates. If youre interested in island cooking then you should certainly sign up for a cooking class at your hotel. In the midst of the Blue Lagoon is what we consider to be the jewel of the Yasawas, Nanuya Lailai. All you need to know about accommodation, places to stay and holidaying in the the Yasawa Islands, Fiji. To learn more about Fijian life in the Yasawas you can ask your resort about booking a visit to one of the villages. ), BEST Travel Camera 2023 (Top Cameras For Every Budget), Best Camera Lenses for Travel Photography (2023 Buying Guide), The BEST Camping Stoves Of 2023: Round Up And Review, Pros and Cons of Cruising to the Yasawa Islands, South Pacific Cruise Packing List (Must-Have Essentials! The best and most convenient way to do it is with Awesome Adventures. You can also participate in activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. 10. As well as popular Fiji water activities such as snorkelling and kayaking, the Yasawas are great for sailing. Tavewa Seabus offers affordable pick up services to get you to their dock in Lautoka on time for your Seabus departure, from the following locations: Marriott in Momi: FJD$90.00. I was able to try traditional Fijian foods, participate in their dances and ceremonies, and learn about their culture and way of life. If you are traveling with friends, its usually cheaper to rent a double than it is for each of you to buy a dorm bed. The international gateway to the Fijian Islands, Viti Levu offers a sample of everything the country has to offer from international-caliber resort areas like all-inclusive and highly manicured Denarau Island to the mountain village of Navala where locals live in thatched bure (huts). No matter what your budget is, whether youre travelling for the food or not, your palette will certainly be educated with authentic Fijian cuisine in the Yasawas. Read more: South Pacific Cruise Packing List (Must-Have Essentials!). So make your special time away together truly special with these 10 Most Romantic Things to Do in the Yasawa Islands for Couples. Now, its a popular tourist destination, yet still remains delightfully undeveloped. And, if there is one region where you can easily do this, it is the Yasawa Islands group. Below are some of our favorite beaches in the Yasawa Islands: Fiji is known as the soft coral capital of the world, meaning you can get into some pretty amazing scuba diving here, if thats your thing. For more ideas and information on each activity, check out the10 Adults-Only Activities in the Yasawa Islands. Yasawa Islands, Fiji Coordinates: 17.0000 S, 177.3833 E Area: 135 sqkm White-sand beaches, swaying coconut. Dotted with palm trees and surrounded by a coral lagoon, the island is truly one of Fijis gems. A beautiful tropical boutique resort in the Yasawa Islands, Fiji, Navutu Stars is an adults-only resort offering absolute beachfront accommodation overlooking the crystal clear waters of the South Pacific. It was in this region that the original movie Blue Lagoon,starring Jean Simmons and Lloyd Bridges was filmed. The archipelago, which stretches in a north-easterly direction for more than 80 kilometres (50mi) from a point 40 kilometres (25mi) north-west of Lautoka, is volcanic in origin and very mountainous, with peaks ranging from 250 to 600 metres (820 to 1,969ft) in height. Yasawa Island Resort & Spa, 6GPH+8WP, Yasawa Island, Fiji Phone +679 672 2266 Web Visit website At the remote edge of Fiji's Yasawa island chain is where you'll find Yasawa Island Resort and Spa. THE BEST Overwater Bungalows in Bora Bora 2023, Cook Islands Travel Guide 2023: Everything You Need to Know, 17 Days in the South Pacific With Holland America. 1. Get more advice for your budget getaway in The Guide to the Yasawa Islands on a Budget. Yasawa Island Resort and Spa is reached via its own private airstrip, inaccessible to other travelers. Just 18 luxury bungalows are hidden among the palms, each just a few steps from a pristine white beach. This was definitely one of the highlights of the trip. The Yasawas are also home to some of Fijis most exclusive resorts. 4. Even if you wont use all your days (you only plan to stay for 5 days, though the smallest pass offered is 7), it still works out cheaper. No matter how you choose to spend your days, we'd like to make them as relaxing as possible. The resort's only neighbours are in a handful of traditional Fijian villages nearby. Splash out and enjoy an epic flight over the 20 or so islands that make up the archipelago, as you admire the crisp white sands of the beaches and the deep, blue turquoise lagoons from high above. With higher-end resorts, you can expect to pay more, in all cases. Back on board, we had dinner and they planned an evening of crab racing! Port Denerau is a quick 20-minute drive from Nadi International Airport. If you after a remote tropical island getaway, visit the Yasawas. These islands sit in the South Pacific Ocean and are officially part of Melanesia. It was a really beautiful last swim through the reefs. If you plan to do multiple islands, youll spend even more money. See the 5 Ways to Get to the Yasawa Islands for more information. You neednt decide until you get here. Connected by a fast daily catamaran service from Nadi, the islands are easy to hop between and have developed into a popular backpacker trail.