Top Hotels in Fiji

Fiji is a south pacific tropical island nation and is made up of more than 332 islands, out of which approximately 100 are permanently inhabited. Fiji has two major islands, Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, which account for 87 per cent of the total population. The capital, Suva on Viti Levu, is Fiji’s principal cruise port, and the international airport is at Nadi on the west coast of the island. Majority of the people on these islands are native Fijians with a small number of Fijian Indians, and an even smaller number of Europeans, Chinese and other Pacific Islanders. Fiji is one of the few places in the world where the coral reefs have not been damaged, and thus diving here is known to be one of the best experiences in the world. Fiji’s pristine white sand beaches is the stuff of legends and have to be seen to be believed.

Ready to dive in to Fiji but unsure where to stay? Fiji has a range of accommodations, so let’s take a look at some of the top hotels in Fiji!

1.     Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort:

Just a 20 minute drive from the airport, this resort is set over 17 acres of what used to be a coconut plantation. The eco-friendly resort, which is also family friendly, is located on Vanua Levu, known as Fiji’s rugged island. The resort has its own private island, cultural activities, traditional “bure” bungalows, and a dive center approved by Jacques Cousteau’s son, Jean-Michel Cousteau. The resort is also a model for eco-tourism, with wood structures, organic plants, and only 25 “bure” villas. Many visitors will say they feel very Fijian here. The resort puts together music and singing every night along with the kava-drinking ceremony. The kava is a traditional drink made from a local plant and passed around in coconut husks. 

Yet, it is the dive center that makes this resort one of the best in Fiji. Here, guests can dive the world renowned Namena marine reserve sites, gain PADI certification, or join guided snorkeling trips with a resident marine biologist. If you’re not into the diving or snorkeling, you can also go on cultural tours including market trips, Fijian medicine walks, and visits to the Nukubalavu village. The “bures” are super spacious with a private terrace, hammock, and lounge chairs, and there is an organic garden on site which is the source of much of the Fijian and Asian cuisine.

2.     Six Senses Fiji

Six Senses is about one hour from the airport on the island of Malolo, part of the Mamanuca archipelago. Remember the Tom Hanks movie Cast Away? That film was captured right here. There’s plenty of uninhabited places and beautiful coral reefs and even sightings of green turtles, dugongs, and migrating whales. The layout of this hotel is a typical Fijian village, and you will see thatched-roofed bule between beach gardens. The resort has many complimentary activities such as morning yoga, stand-up paddle-boarding, hikes, wood-carving, spear-making ,and open-air cinema movies.  The resort also comes with a swimming pool, tennis courts, private marinas, and a beautiful Six Senses Spa that offers lava shell massages, meditation sessions, and gold-leaf facials. Out of the 24 pool villas, half actually spill out onto the beach. The villas don’t feel too crowded as there is thick foliage between each one that gives you the privacy you need. Interiors boast vaulted ceilings and wood furniture. Beds are biodegradable and comfortable, and the bathrooms have outdoor tubs which drain into worm-powered septic tanks, with everything running on Tesla solar panels. Notable items on the food menu include coconut cream ceviche, tiger prawn mousse, roast chicken in tamarind sauce, as well as more casual fare like snacks by the pool.

3.     Paradise Cove

This spectacular place is on Naukacuvu Island, in the Naviti group of islands, and it is quite a good distance away from the main island of Viti Levu. There is a daily boat that will take you from the resort to the mainland or you can also arrive by seaplane. The resort is very laid back, and, upon your arrival, you will be greeted by local Fijian singing. The villas are set on and away from the beach with a strong focus on tropical gardens. The resort also supports local village projects and makes an effort to bring local Fijian culture to the guests. The Crooked Coconut Kids’ Club and Teen Tent offer a great option for kids. The PADI dive shop will arrange cave dives and provide you with paddle-boards, game fishing gear, kayaks, and snorkels. The Garden Bungalows are spacious and well decorated with Fijian prints, the open-air shower while the Deluxe Garden Bungalows have open-air ensuites. The Beachront Villas come with their own private loungers on the beach. Many of the ingredients for the food comes from local farmers and much of the fruit and vegetables are grown on-site. Dinner are a three-course event and comes with the kava drinking ceremony and food is very Fijian inspired. This resort has a compulsory meal plan as well.

4.     Shangri-La’s Fijian Resort & Spa

This resort occupies the entire private Yanuca island and boasts of incredible gardens and, of course, its own private beach. An adults only section comes with an infinity pool and golf course. A waterpark, kids’ club, and multitude of activities are available for kids as well. All rooms boast private ocean views and a private balcony. Relaxing treatments can be enjoyed at the unique Chi The Spa Village, a spa and wellness center.  Chinese tea is provided in each room which features a TV, bathrobes, and guest toiletries. This resort is a 45-minute drive from the Nadi international airport.

5.     Grand Pacific Hotel

This hotel is located on Victoria Parade in the heart of Fiji’s capital, Suva, and overlooks the colonial government buildings along Albert Park, with Laucala Bay to the east and Suva Harbor to the west. You can walk over to the bars, restaurants, curry houses, and the market, as the resort is within walking distance. The Fiji museum nearby is also well worth a visit!

This hotel is known as one of the best heritage hotels in the South Pacific. The building is over a century old, and you can see vintage photos lining the hallways. Some of the staff have even worked here for decades as you can see on the “wall of fame” that lines the halls. Enjoy a torch lighting ceremony to the sound of drums in the evenings, as well as excellent service that is reminiscent of grandeur without being overly stuffy. The hotel has a pool with views of Suva’s harbor and, of course, you can enjoy a treatment at the Bliss Spa. Modern guest rooms are available at the two new wings while the standard Grand Pacific Superior rooms all have balconies.  The Heritage rooms and suites have a wraparound verandah and can dine in the harbor view Victoria Lounge. If you want fine dining, Prince Albert offers an excellent option onsite while the all-day Levuka restaurant seating extends to the terrace over the pool deck and harbor.

Wherever you decide to stay in Fiji, you are sure to have a beautiful time in these islands. For more information please visit  Acanela Expeditions.

Written by Preethi Chandrasekhar, follow her for more travel stories.