Remix spends a week exploring Fiji’s Yasawa Islands, the tropical paradise you’ll want to visit for your next holiday
Praised by many as the ‘real Fiji’, the Yasawa Islands are made up of volcanic mountainscapes covered in lush jungle, crystal-clear water, white sand beaches, and deep coral reefs. The archipelago is seemingly untouched, offering a remote tropical paradise for travellers seeking the most idyllic island escape.
Having a father from Fiji, the islands have always felt like a second home. But, despite my many trips back, I had never ventured to the Yasawa Islands until late last year.
My Yasawa experience began when I departed Port Denarau to spend the morning snorkelling with sharks with Ultimate Encounters at Barefoot Kuata Island Resort. Greeted by a traditional Fijian warrior atop a large rock, my first time stepping onto Barefoot Kuata was something special. Renowned for their underwater experiences and affordable beachfront accommodation, this is the perfect destination for travellers keen to get immersed in the more adventurous offerings of the Yasawa Island group. After being briefed by the incredible Ultimate Encounters guides, we took to the sea in search of some Blacktip and Whitetip Reef Sharks. Although undeniably nerve wracking to begin with, it only took a minute to realise that these majestic creatures were not going to harm me. I never thought I would be one to swim with the sharks, but this experience was one for the books.
My next stop was Waya Island Resort, an adults-only beachfront retreat set against Waya Island’s dramatic basalt peaks. Upon arrival, I was greeted with a warm welcome home by the resort’s lovely staff, and with just 25 villas and bures nestled amongst lush tropical gardens, I felt an immediate sense of connection and community amongst the staff and guests. After a complimentary foot massage offered to all guests (what a win), I set about exploring the resort and the amazing experiences they offered. From snorkeling and paddleboarding, to a breathtaking morning hike up the famous Waya Island Peak—the view is worth it, I promise—there was no shortage of things to do and see. The restaurant food and beverage was also insane, with a menu made up of high-quality ingredients and award-winning wines sourced from Australia and New Zealand, dinners were simply icing on the cake after a very tiring day of swimming and sunbathing.
A highlight of my time at Waya Island Resort was the Fijian night hosted on my final night. Already in a state of zen following my luxurious full body massage at the spa, myself and the rest of the resort guests took part in a traditional Kava ceremony, followed by a delicious shared meal that consisted of all the beloved Fijian food I grew up with—Palusami, Kokoda, you name it. It’s safe to say that I had a hard time leaving Waya Island Resort.
My final stop of my trip around the Yasawa Islands was Paradise Cove Resort. After a short trip on the South Sea Cruises Yasawa Flyer, I was greeted with a welcome song, a refreshing cold towel, and a gorgeous white sand beach. A family-friendly luxury escape on Naukacuvu Island, Paradise Cove Resort indulges guests with three swimming pools, a never-ending list of cultural and marine exploration activities, and the clearest water I have ever seen. I was invited to take part in their coral planting activity which was an amazing way of giving back to the environment, and contributing to the health of the Island’s vibrant marine life.
A hidden gem of the Yasawa Islands has to be the resort’s Japanese restaurant, Donu. I was lucky enough to experience their ten course Omakase menu, and it truly felt like I was taken from Fiji to Japan. The talented chefs prepared a variety of dishes that highlighted some of the country’s finest fish, whilst the traditional counter seating made me feel like I was part of the action.
After a week of exploring the Yasawa Islands, I knew I had found my new favourite corner of the world. I am so grateful to call Fiji home, and I’m looking forward to my next Yasawa adventure.
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