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School’s In: The Best Snorkelling Spots in Fiji
Written by Finn
From kaleidoscopic coral to magnificent marine life, Fiji’s reefs offer some of the best snorkelling in the world.
We all love a well-earned beach day, and where better to throw down your towel than the spectacular sands of Fiji? The ideal tropical island holiday, this South Pacific nation is famed for its combination of warm sun, powdery sand and turquoise seas. But beyond world-class beaches, Fiji is also home to some of the world’s finest snorkelling spots. Whether you’re an avid fish fanatic or a casual paddler in search of some excitement, these are Fiji’s best destinations for all things aquatic.
Rainbow Reef, Vanua Levu
In the tropical waters between Fiji’s northern Vanua Levu and Taveuni islands lies Rainbow Reef, widely regarded as being among the best dive sites in the Pacific. Remote, yet close to several luxurious lodgings like The Remote Resort, Fiji Islands and Namale Resort and Spa, this vibrant reef stretches along the Somosomo Strait with dozens of easily accessible snorkel spots, including jaw-dropping Rainbow’s End. Known as the ‘soft coral capital of the world’, Rainbow Reef is also home to a dizzying array of fish, from parrotfish to all 27 types of butterfly fish indigenous to the Fijian archipelago. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the gentle manta ray passing through from May to October.
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Yasawa Islands
For those in search of fantastic fish, there’s no better place than the idyllic Yasawa Islands northwest of Nadi. Famously friendly locals and truly spectacular stays such as Yasawa Island Resort & Spa attract travellers from across the world, but it’s the excitement under the sea that really sets the Yasawas apart. Crystalline waters offer excellent visibility at top-tier dive sites: with the waters surrounding laidback Nacula Island and the beautiful Blue Lagoon on Nanuya Lai Lai among the most popular. For the more adventurous, the famous Sawa-i-Lau limestone caves offer a uniquely spiritual opportunity to explore subterranean Fiji.
Mana Island, Mamanuca Islands
One of Fiji’s most beloved destinations, Mana Island is the perfect distillation of what makes the Mamanuca Islands so magical – dreamy beaches, dazzling blue waters and a plethora of aquatic activities. The crowning glory is the incredible reef access. Grab your snorkelling gear and set off straight from the beach at Mana Island Resort & Spa Fiji for the chance to see bright coral gardens and soaring sea turtles, as well as abundant batfish at the nearby Gotham City dive site. An easy ferry from Port Denarau, this is picture-perfect Fiji on demand.
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Supermarket Reef, Mamanuca Islands
Part of the renowned Malolo Barrier Reef, Supermarket Reef has earned its unusual name thanks to the many and varied fish that congregate here. A short distance from exclusive resorts of Malolo Island, like Six Senses Fiji and Likuliku Lagoon Resort, snorkellers will find a colourful haven for myriad tropical fish and turtles. Most famously, Supermarket Reef is one of the country’s best spots to see grey, blacktip and whitetip reef sharks, weaving fluidly through the shimmering waters.
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Natadola Beach, Viti Levu
Travellers sticking to the lively mainland of Viti Levu don’t need to worry about missing out. On the island’s southwest Coral Coast, Natadola Beach is a must-visit for avid surfers and white-sand beach-lovers alike. Under the waves, an active community of marine life is an easy paddle out through bright blue waters. A dynamic topography of soft and hard corals house mesmerising fish, all within sight of the area’s luxury accommodations, including InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Discover the Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Fiji.
