FJ
Yasawa Islands
A remote chain of volcanic islands with quiet beaches, villages and manta rays
A remote chain of volcanic islands with quiet beaches, villages and manta rays
Islands such as Waya, Naviti and Nacula have quiet bays and hilltop walks with views along the chain.
Photo: Rickard Törnblad, CC BY-SA 4.0
Snorkelling is excellent from many beaches. Near Drawaqa and Naviti, manta rays feed in a channel, mainly from about May to October.
Choose operators who follow manta-viewing guidelines.
Photo: Rickard Törnblad, CC BY-SA 4.0
The clear lagoon by Nanuya Lailai is linked to the 1980 film The Blue Lagoon, partly filmed in the area. It is a popular stop for swimming and snorkelling.
Photo: Msdstefan, Public domain
In the north, guides lead swims into a limestone cave pool, and through an underwater passage to a second, darker chamber.
The underwater swim is optional and short.
Photo: Wendy Harman, CC BY 2.0
Most lodges include all meals. Try fresh fish, kokoda, and a lovo night.
Shops are few; bring snacks, sunscreen and any medicines you need.
The Yasawa Flyer catamaran leaves Port Denarau each morning and works its way up the chain, taking about five hours to the far north. Hop-on, hop-off passes are popular.
Seaplanes also fly to some resorts.
Fiji uses the Fijian dollar (FJD). Resorts are pricey; local food and buses are cheap.
Check current pass prices.
Island hopping north and back.
Take the morning boat and hike Waya’s hills.
Snorkel the reef and look for manta rays in season.
Visit a village and the Sawa-i-Lau caves.
Swim and snorkel around Nanuya Lailai.
Enjoy a quiet beach day.
Take the boat back to Port Denarau.
Bring enough cash; card payment and ATMs are limited.
Pack medicines, sunscreen and insect repellent.
Dress modestly in villages.
November to April is cyclone season; check forecasts and consider travel insurance.
Quick answers for planning time in Yasawa Islands.
By the daily Yasawa Flyer catamaran from Port Denarau, or by seaplane.
Yes, mainly from about May to October.
Limestone caves with swimming pools in the northern Yasawas.
Yes, simple lodges with meals included.
May to October.
English is an official language; a few words of Fijian (bula, vinaka) go a long way.
Free
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