The South Pacific’s often overlooked treasure is an archipelago of 333 tropical islands. Some inhabited, some uninhabited and all surrounded by spectacular waters and an abundance of marine life. It’s safe to say that Fiji is a water lover’s haven, so set your watch to island time and explore our picks for the top islands and diving spots in Fiji if all you want on your holiday is sun, sand, salt and sea life.

Planning a trip to Fiji? Check out the Luxury Escapes deal for Castaway Island Fiji here.

Words by Luxury Escapes writer, Shylie Rimmer.

Yasawa Islands

The Yasawas are a group of volcanic islands in Western Fiji, accessible by ferry or seaplane. For decades, this region was overlooked as a tourist destination, but its popularity is quickly growing with tourists visiting not just for the scenic views but for the once in a lifetime opportunity to swim with manta rays. Every year a shallow channel near Drawaqa Island becomes home to thousands of these gentle giants, so make sure to visit between May and October to catch a glimpse of—and have a dip with—these majestic creatures.

Kadavu Island

It has one town, a couple of roads and is one of the country’s best-kept secrets, but Fiji’s fourth-largest island is also a diver’s nirvana. Boasting incredible natural beauty, Kadavu’s unspoiled landscape is framed by the Great Astrolabe Reef, a world-renowned diving spot and one of the largest barrier reefs in the world. You’ll have to experience the magic of the reef for yourself.

Beachcomber Island

Part of the Mamanuca Islands cluster, Beachcomber Island is quite literally tiny – you can walk around it in all of 20 minutes. So why this island, you ask? It’s smack bang in the middle of a protected marine sanctuary in the South Pacific, making it one of the most beautiful coral reefs for snorkeling. Come daytime, the island is your oyster: kayak, paddle board and explore the underwater world of one of the smallest inhabited islands in the area. Or just lay on the beach, soak up the hot sun and look out to the undisturbed horizon.

Lau Group

This one is for those who like a road less travelled. Almost halfway to Tonga, only three (of the 57) of the Lau Islands have accommodation for visitors with none of them having the true definition of a ‘restaurant’. But what you’ll find here is far better. Think: footprint-free beaches, undamaged reefs and coral cays that can only be seen to be believed. Keep this gem a secret, we don’t want just anybody discovering these islands.

Mana Island

For a romantic escape to screensaver paradise, look no further than Mana Island. Although part of the magical Mamanuca Islands—which are in fact the closest to Nadi International Airport—the still warm waters, pillowy sand and never-ending horizon will have you feeling you’re worlds away from home. A Castaway of its own, Mana Island is your go-to spot for some needed rest and rejuvenation under the hot Fijian sun.

Hot Tip: The driest time to head to Fiji is between July and September, but that’s also peak season. We’d suggest going between October and April when the tourists are gone and the temperatures rest into the 80s. The tropical storms may put on a show, but that’s all part of the fun!

Planning a trip to Fiji? Check out the Luxury Escapes deal for Castaway Island Fiji here.