Scattered off the northwest coast of Fiji are some of the most sought-after islands in the world: the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands. Those who venture beyond the mainland are rewarded with almost-deserted beaches, verdant peaks and some of Fiji’s best snorkelling and diving – not to mention some of the sunniest and driest weather in the country. It’s no wonder they’re frequently selected by Hollywood to represent paradise on screen.
These island groups are also surprisingly accessible: from Nadi, opt for a short domestic flight, a regular ferry transfer, or a curated cruise to go island-hopping at your own pace.
Mamanuca Islands: the set of Cast Away
Just west of Nadi are 20 remarkable isles of Mamanuca. Welcoming locals, picture-perfect reefs and endless stretches of sand have made these islands famous the world over.
Those wanting to take it slow can kayak the tropical waters surrounding mesmerising Monuriki, where the cinematic classic Cast Away was filmed. Meanwhile, surfers will want to set a course for the watercolour wonder of Tavarua Island, the gateway to Fiji’s famous waves – Cloudbreak, Restaurants and Tavarua Rights.
Of course, much of the Mamanuca magic is found on deserted shores only accessible by day sail. Surrounding the private island of Tivua, snorkellers are rewarded with 500 acres of colourful coral gardens and enchanting marine life. Back ashore, beach lovers can stroll along the uninterrupted shore and listen to the breath of timeless tides.
Where to stay
Malolo Island is where Fijian luxury feels most complete. Quiet, calm and contemporary design make Six Senses Fiji an ideal anchor for a restorative Pacific stay, with crisp beachfront rooms and on-site spa facilities. On the island’s northwestern tip, Likuliku Lagoon Resort is an adults-only retreat offering all-inclusive dining and an array of accommodation, from the Beachfront Bure to the Overwater Bure.
A short hop away, Mana Island is where you’ll find Mana Island Resort & Spa – a livelier all-ages base with two freshwater pools, a swim-up bar, a kids’ club and activities to fill every day of a stay.
Yasawa Islands: hidden caves, diving and hiking with a view
Further afield lies the spectacular Yasawa archipelago, a collection of around 20 volcanic islands in Fiji’s northwest. Famed for their rugged cliffs and remote coves, the Yasawa Islands suit travellers seeking tranquillity and adventure in equal measure. The watchful limestone mountain of secluded Sawa-i-Lau Island cuts a striking figure, hiding the legendary saltwater caves made famous by the film Blue Lagoon. Two hidden caverns, connected by a thrilling submerged passage, wait beneath the peak. Sawa-i-Lau and its caves are a short boat ride from nearby Yasawa Island and a must-see for anyone staying in the northern Yasawas.
Divers will be spoilt for choice with some of Fiji’s best dive sites, and the chance to encounter turtles, sharks and manta rays at Manta Ray Passage, a short boat ride from Drawaqa Island. Each island in the archipelago has beautiful hiking trails leading to panoramic views, such as those at the summit of Wayasewa Island and the picturesque peak of Mount Tamasua on Yasawa Island.
Where to stay
Yasawa Island Resort & Spa invites you to settle comfortably on the island’s northernmost shores, ready to explore the lush, remote wilderness. With fewer than 50 guests at any one time, this exclusive resort presents the discerning traveller with the ideal balance of relaxation and excitement. Wander out to one of the 11 remote private beaches, savour all-inclusive à la carte dining and book a couple’s massage at the beachfront spa. Between exhilarating dives and invigorating trail walks, you can recline with sweeping ocean views from your room, or book the Honeymoon Bure for a private paradise complete with your own horizon pool.
Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands at a glance
Which is better, Mamanuca or Yasawa?
The Mamanucas sit closer to Nadi and suit shorter stays, day trips and families who want resort infrastructure close by. The Yasawas are further out, less developed, and reward travellers chasing diving, hiking and a slower pace.
How do you get to the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands?
Both are reached from Nadi via short domestic flights, seaplane, or the Yasawa Flyer ferry, with Mamanuca resorts typically 20–90 minutes away and Yasawa transfers taking longer.
What’s the best time to see manta rays in Fiji?
Manta season runs May to October around Manta Ray Passage near Drawaqa Island in the Yasawas, one of the most reliable manta encounters in the South Pacific.
Discover Fiji
Looking for more inspiration? Check out The Only Island Guide to Fiji You Need.
