Fiji’s Nadi Bay is transforming into a hidden oasis

For many years the area surrounding Wailoaloa was known as a haven for backpackers and full of budget resorts — that’s all changing.

For many years the area surrounding Wailoaloa was known as a haven for backpackers and full of budget resorts for those looking for a cheap alternative to the luxurious high rises found elsewhere in Fiji.

But Wailoaloa’s reputation is changing and Fiji is cleaning up its act, recognising this 3km stretch of land as a vital part of the tourism industry; not only is it just a pit stop between flights but now it’s a destination within itself.

For many years the area surrounding Wailoaloa was known as a haven for backpackers and full of budget resorts for those looking for a cheap alternative to the luxurious high rises found elsewhere in Fiji.

But Wailoaloa’s reputation is changing and Fiji is cleaning up its act, recognising this 3km stretch of land as a vital part of the tourism industry; not only is it just a pit stop between flights but now it’s a destination within itself.

With the addition of various high-end hotels this area is undergoing a major facelift, and Wailoaloa Beach is being brought back to life.

Slowly, but surely, word is getting out.

Wailoaloa and Nadi Bay are gaining a reputation with Aussies for being an easy holiday destination just a few hours away from Australia. It takes less time to fly here than it takes to fly from Sydney to Perth.

When you take your first steps onto Wailoaloa Beach, it’s not the ocean outlook, the towering mountains in the background or the peaceful surrounds that you immediately clock; it’s most likely you’ll spot the sand.

Locals call this place Wailoaloa because, in Fijian, the word means black, and here, the sand is very much that, darkened by the surrounding mangrove estuaries, a unique ecosystem where the ocean meets the coastline.

It’s fitting considering the scenery that spans this tranquil beachfront. Miles and miles of black sand, as far as the eye can see.

The transformation of Wailoaloa has not been an overnight journey.

The Pullman Hotel, the region’s newest premier beachfront resort, took six years to build, and while it’s not yet fully finished, you could spend a week or longer here basking by the pool or playing volleyball on the beach. It’s that good you won’t want to go home.

“I have worked at a resort and know the ins and outs of what it takes to make an exceptional experience,” one reviewer posted on TripAdvisor.

“Ever one was so friendly helpful and down to earth. There was no short supply of things to do, We played tennis, went to the gym, went swimming, went for the 1 hour blast tour on the jet ski and snorkelling and had we stayed longer probably would have done more.

“I really couldn’t have wished for better.”

On the beachfront at Pullman, the sea is good for swimming but watch for the water sports going on at the same time. Jet skiing. Snorkelling. Canoeing. Kayaking. Here, you can see and do it all.

The Pullman Nadi Bay has a luxe pool before you hit the beachfront.

The view at Pullman Nadi Bay looking towards the beach.

Although Wailoaloa Beach has neither gleaming white sands nor an aquamarine lagoon, it does have a tranquil ocean outlook, stunning sunsets and incredible views towards the mountains.

It could be easy to dismiss this place and move on to somewhere where the white sand glistens or where the night-life is pumping, but our bet is to get in quick before the rest of the world discovers the secret of Wailoaloa Beach.

Locals admit its past may not have been up to scratch but with each day comes a beautiful rebirth.

Online reviews over the years have been understandably hard on this place, but there is change on the horizon for weary workers in need of a break.

Get in quick.

One of the views overlooking the pool at Pullman Nadi Bay in Fiji.

WHERE IS IT

Wailoaloa Beach is located on the western side of the main island of Viti Levu in Nadi. Nadi is the principal port of entry for air travellers to Fiji and is located just 9km from Wailoaloa.

WHERE TO STAY

Pullman Nadi Bay Resort and Spa Fiji is located on the beachfront of Wailoaloa Bay, a premier location just 7km by car from Nadi International Airport. For more information visit pullman.accorhotels.com/pullman/nadi

Pullman Nadi Bay opened its doors in March 2019. Pictured here is the lobby.

— This writer was a guest of Pullman Nadi Bay