FJ
Mamanuca Islands
Small resort islands with white sand and clear lagoons, a short boat ride from Nadi
Small resort islands with white sand and clear lagoons, a short boat ride from Nadi
Islands such as Malolo, Mana and Castaway have resorts with beaches, pools and water sports. Some smaller islands can be visited on day cruises.
Photo: ogwen, CC BY-SA 3.0
This uninhabited island was used as a filming location for the movie Cast Away (2000). Day trips stop for swimming and photos.
Photo: Shutterbuggery, CC BY-SA 3.0
The barrier reef has snorkelling and diving with colourful corals and reef fish. Experienced surfers come for breaks such as Cloudbreak, mainly from April to October.
Surf breaks are for experienced surfers only.
Photo: Maksym Kozlenko, CC BY-SA 4.0
Catamarans, water taxis, seaplanes and helicopters leave from Port Denarau and Nadi for the islands. Crossings take from about 30 minutes to two hours.
Photo: Fijiisparadise, CC BY 3.0
Most resorts include meal plans; try kokoda, fresh fish and a traditional lovo feast.
Day cruises usually include lunch, and some visit a floating bar on the reef.
Scheduled catamarans run from Port Denarau to most islands several times a day. Many resorts also arrange water taxi, seaplane or helicopter transfers.
Book transfers with your accommodation in advance.
Fiji uses the Fijian dollar (FJD). Resorts are pricey; local food and buses are cheap.
Pick one island or hop between two.
Take the catamaran from Port Denarau and settle in.
Snorkel or dive the barrier reef.
Visit Monuriki or another island on a day trip.
Kayak, paddleboard or relax on the beach.
Boats run on schedules; plan flights around them.
Resorts vary a lot; choose family, adults-only or budget carefully.
Reef-safe sunscreen protects you and the coral.
November to April is cyclone season; check forecasts and consider travel insurance.
Quick answers for planning time in Mamanuca Islands.
By catamaran from Port Denarau, or by water taxi, seaplane or helicopter.
On Monuriki, in the Mamanucas.
Yes, many day cruises leave from Port Denarau.
Yes, world-class reef breaks for experienced surfers.
May to October.
English is an official language; a few words of Fijian (bula, vinaka) go a long way.
Free
Planning a wider trip? Our Fiji travel guide covers getting there, costs, when to go and more.