6 Ways to Explore Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands

Man Island, a way to Explore Fiji's Mamanuca Islands - Luxury Escapes

From swimming with reef sharks to the set of Survivor, here’s how to do the Mamanucas right. 

The Mamanuca Islands are some of Fiji’s crown jewels, a dreamy blend of turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs. Whether you’re craving first-class service on a luxury catamaran, thrilling marine encounters or private island beach club adventures, the Mamanuca Islands delivers like nowhere else.

Island hop on a custom-built luxury catamaran  

The best way to get your bearings is by boat – and this pristine, double-hulled catamaran is an unrivalled introduction. The day starts with a welcome mimosa or mocktail while docked at Port Denarau, before taking off into warm, shimmering blue waters. Before long, you’ll be relaxing on a secluded sand cay and taking your first dips into pristine tropical reefs. Snack on a gourmet morning tea and dig into a chef-curated buffet lunch with beer and wine flowing for two hours. With daybeds, beanbags, and booths to lounge in and a fully stocked bar on standby, this might be Fiji’s most decadent shared charter. 

Marvel at marine life on South Sea Island 

Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, this tiny gem could be missed on a map. Once at South Sea Island, snorkel among tropical fish, paddleboard around the island, or ride the semi-submersible coral viewer for a front-row seat to Fiji’s underwater world. Back on land, unwind in the saltwater pool or kick back with a complimentary drink from the fully stocked bar. To round it out, a mouthwatering BBQ lunch is served with a traditional Fijian meke (dance) performance.  

Sail up to the shores of Castaway Island  

You don’t have to stay at a resort in the Mamanuca Islands to explore its famous shores. Take a day trip to the dreamy Castaway Island Resort on Qalito Island. The day is yours to design – snorkel through flourishing house reefs, lounge under the shade of tropical trees, or bask on the beach with the soft ocean breeze. When hunger strikes, indulge in a two-course a la carte or buffet lunch at the resort’s beachside restaurant. Cool off afterwards in the family pool or retreat to the adults-only pool.

Visit Malamala, ‘The World’s First Island Beach Club’ 

Occupying an entire private island, just 30 minutes from Port Denarau, is the breathtaking Malamala Beach Club. It’s where pristine beaches, swaying palms, and infinity-edge poolside cocktails come standard. The island is equipped with everything from beachside cabanas with uninterrupted views of the Mamanuca Islands, to complimentary water activities like snorkelling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Small enough to stroll around in just 20 minutes but big enough to feel like your own slice of paradise, there are few places in the world like Malamala. 

Snorkel with sharks off the coast of Kuata Island  

If your bucket list includes coming snorkel-to-snout with reef sharks, this thrilling day trip to Kuata Island delivers in spades. Begin with a scenic cruise before arriving at Barefoot Kuata Resort, where your adventure kicks off. Under the guidance of expert instructors, dive into crystal-clear waters to snorkel with reef sharks in their natural habitat – no cages, just you and these incredible creatures.

Spend a day where Survivor was filmed  

As one of the filming locations of Survivor, Mana Island has true castaway charm. It’s near the mainland so you can spend less time travelling and more time exploring its neon-bright marine life. With over 10+ Survivor challenge sites located on Mana, a trek around the island might land you in iconic filming locations from the famed series. 

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