Mamanuca Islands

Mamanuca Islands are a group of tiny islands west of Viti Levu in Fiji.

Understand
The Mamanuca Islands consist of more than 20 islands. At high tide seven of them are completely inundated. These islands offer coral reefs, crystal clear waters, and palm fringed sandy beaches.

Islands
Islands in the Mamanuca chain, not all of which are inhabited, include:


 * Amunuca
 * Beachcomer
 * Castaway
 * Eori
 * Kadavulailai (a/k/a Bounty)
 * Kadomo
 * Male
 * Malololailai
 * Malolo
 * Mana
 * Manu
 * Matamanoa
 * Modriki
 * Monu
 * Monuriki, an uninhabited tiny island, is very much off the beaten track. The movie Cast Away was shot on this island.
 * Nautanivono
 * Navadra
 * Navini
 * Nomatu
 * Oalito
 * South Sea
 * Tavarua
 * Tavua
 * Tivua
 * Tokoriki
 * Treasure
 * Vomo
 * Vomo Lailai
 * Yanuya

From Nadi International Airport

 * Flights on a helicopter (Island Hoppers) or float plane offer the fastest, and most expensive, way to reach the islands.

From Denarau Marina
The marina is a 20-minute drive from Nadi Airport. One can generally catch a free bus from any of the major resorts near Nadi or from the airport to Denarau Marina. If you aren't sure, ask the front desk; they can probably call the bus for pick up. Port Denerau is the location of some of the largest and most expensive resorts on the main island, including the Sheraton, Hilton, Westin, and Radisson Hotels.


 * Large, luxury catamarans from South Sea Cruises with seating for approximately 200 people take several hours to reach your destination, depending on which island is your destination. They are often air-conditioned lounge with food and drinks available for purchase. There are three daily departures: 9:15AM, 12:15PM, 3:15PM.
 * Water Taxis (Seafiji) also service the islands in small aluminium boats. They are good for groups going to the same destination.

Get around
South Sea Cruises have a resort connections service. There are two modern vessels providing transfers to your Fiji Island resorts in the Mamanuca Islands. Each vessel has a "Captain's Lounge" where you can book reserved seating and travel in greater comfort. These lounges are air conditioned and include refreshments en route. South Sea Cruises ferries depart Denarau Marina several times a day and are very efficient.

Eat
It won't surprise anybody that Fiji's cuisine features a lot of seafood. However, it may surprise those not familiar with Fiji's history that it also includes numerous Indian dishes introduced by Indian labourers brought over in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Kokoda is a Fijian delicacy similar to ceviche or Hawaiian poke. It consists of pieces of raw fish marinated in lemon juice and coconut milk, often accompanied by pepper, onion and tomato.

Rourou soup is a smooth and creamy soup made from blended taro leaves and coconut milk.

Fresh tropical fruit is also popular on the islands, including plantains, papaya, mango and pawpaw.

Drink
Coconut milk!

Stay safe
The Mamanuca Islands are small and secluded, isolating them from much of the theft or other crimes committed in Fiji. The most prevalent dangers come from the environment. Wear plenty of sunblock, do not walk on or touch the coral reef or sea creatures inhabiting it, and be cautious of when and where you swim as large waves or undertows are possible.

Go next
Head to the Yasawa Islands, one of Fiji's most stunning regions. The remote Yasawa Islands group consists of a chain of 20 ancient volcanic islands. Four of these islands have dramatic elevations with summits just short of 600 m above sea level. The pristine white sandy beaches and dramatic monoliths surrounded by crystal-clear lagoons provide a beautiful environment in which to relax or enjoy the many activities on offer. Approximately 30 resorts are spread through the islands and most resorts provide basic accommodation and meals with access to natural and cultural sites.