The best private islands in Fiji for a slow, sun-soaked tropical holiday
As restrictions ease from April 7, the lure of a tropical holiday in Fiji is stronger than ever. Start with one of these newly-refreshed five-star resorts.
With over 330 islands in its archipelago, it’s no wonder that Fiji has become synonymous with barefoot luxury. Stretches of white-sand beach, remote five-star resorts and famously warm Fijian hospitality have made it a long-time favourite destination for those in search of a slow, sun-soaked tropical escape.
While international travellers were previously required to spend three nights in a resort quarantine facility before entering the nation, Fiji has announced that this restriction will lift on April 7. Visitors will still be asked, however, to show proof of vaccination status, as well as a negative rapid antigen test before arrival, and upon returning to Australia.
If you’re one of many who are planning to make the most of the eased travel restrictions, consider going further afield. Beyond Viti Levu lies a constellation of smaller islands that are home to some of the best remote high-end resorts — many of which have used the 20-month shutdown period to revamp and reinvigorate their suites, spas, dining options and more. From Vomo’s new family friendly multi-residence to Kokomo’s expanded bar and restaurant offerings, there’s something fresh for new and returning travellers alike.
Here, we round up six exceptional private islands in Fiji to inspire your next getaway.
Yaukuve Levu
Stay: Kokomo Private Island Fiji
Nestled in Fiji’s Great Astrolabe Reef, Kokomo Private Island Fiji is just a 45-minute helicopter or seaplane flight from the mainland. The resort has welcomed a number of upgrades over the last year, including a beachside grill, a sunken cocktail bar, and a private wine cellar. Each of the 21 villas come with a private pool, outdoor shower, walled garden, and direct access to the beach, and feature an open-plan interior with stonework by Fijian artist Chris Kenyon.
Turtle Island
Stay: Turtle Island
If you’re in search of a private honeymoon destination or just some time away from the kids, you can’t look past the exclusive Turtle Island. Cradled in the Blue Lagoon in the Yasawa Island Group, the picturesque resort can only host up to 14 couples at a time. All of its bures were refurbished in 2019 during the pandemic; now, each villa offers a kingsize bed, renovated bathrooms and spacious verandas along with the sunset views and access to the island’s 12 private beaches. The local farm was also given a sustainable revamp. A hydroponic garden supplies the resort’s kitchen with seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Malolo Island
Stay: Six Senses Fiji
Famed for its turquoise lagoon, Six Senses Fiji — which reopened to travellers on April 1 — is already in high demand and is now operating on a waitlist-only basis. Comprising 24 private villas, all residences come with kitchens, dining rooms and living spaces that are generous enough to accommodate a large group of friends, or your first post-pandemic family holiday. Six Senses also has a distinct focus on sustainability. All villas use 100 per cent solar energy, drawn from a Tesla battery-powered microgrid, and the resort’s three restaurants, deli and ice creamery source their ingredients from local farmers, fishermen and the on-site garden.
Vomo Island
Stay: Vomo
Guests at Vomo, the only resort on one of Fiji’s larger private islands, can choose from six multi-room residences: The Royal, The Residence, The Beach House, The Reef House, The Palms, and the newly-opened Taleitaki, which began welcoming travellers in January. With four bedrooms, and 410 square metres of space housing up to eight guests, Taleitaki lives up to its name, which means “a precious place to which you’ll want to return.” But no matter which beachfront or hillside villa you choose, a luxury experience is guaranteed. All guests have the island to themselves, as well as the neighbouring Vomo Lailai. Be sure to schedule a fishing trip with a local crew or trek to the summit of Mount Vomo for panoramic views.
Tokoriki Island
Stay: Sheraton Resort & Spa Tokoriki
Tokoriki’s coral reefs and sandy beaches surround the island’s resort, which is home to the largest day spa in the Mamanuca Islands. The resort’s amenities make it the ultimate relaxation destination: swim in the beachside infinity pool or enjoy a massage before finishing off the evening with a round of minigolf. Tokoriki has recently welcomed new restaurant options, including an al fresco seaside bar, as well as a Cultural Centre which celebrates authentic Fijian cuisine accompanied by live local music, dance performances and kava tasting ceremonies.
Royal Davui Island
Stay: Royal Davui Island Resort
The adults-only resort on the remote Royal Davui Island is accessible via a half-hour helicopter flight from Fiji’s Nadi Airport. It consists of only 16 private villas, which are tucked away within the island’s tropical foliage. A focus on environmental responsibility means that much of the island remains undisturbed, and the surrounding reef has been declared a no-fishing zone, allowing the local marine life to flourish. Make the most of this underwater haven with a snorkelling trip, and don’t miss a picnic on Sand Cay Beach, a tiny islet that disappears at high tide.