Mamanuca Islands Hotels

Magnificent Mamanuca Islands

All celebrities have starred in something cringeworthy in their careers, and while Fiji’s Mamanuca Islands are often known for being the setting for Survivor, they also starred alongside Tom Hanks in Cast Away – where for the majority of the film they were easily the most visually appealing character.

But we guarantee you won’t have to resort to humanising a bloody volleyball for company on these cherry islands, which are only a short float from Nadi city centre and the beautiful resorts of Outrigger. For a day trip from Mamanuca Islands, visit the white sands of Bounty Island or the smaller Yasawa Islands, or make the journey to Castaway Island. Resist the urge to snap a picture with a Fed Ex package here – ironically, this is not the setting of the movie.

MAMANUCA ISLAND’S TOP 10

10. Plantation Cove You’d be hard pressed to find a better spot to learn to dive.	5. Scenic Flights Via helicopter you can see where the celebs hang out and get a look at the uninhabited islands.
9. Parasail the Beach The views are incredible (if you can manage to keep your eyes open).	4. Fishing It’s done with rods, not spears, but is still a great way to see some hidden parts of the islands.
8. Cloudbreak Catch a set at one of the most popular and famous surfing spots in Fiji.	3. Sunset Beach Another beauty, this is a popular site for snorkelling as well as watching the sunset.
7. Dolphin Safari Leaving from most major islands as the sun rises. If you’re lucky, you’ll see some turtles, too.	2. South Beach This amazing beach on Mana Island is a sight for sore eyes, although you’ll still probably want to wear sunglasses.
6. Malololailai Island This is the place to head for shopping and, if you need it, a slight return to civilisation.	1. Castaway Island This beautiful resort island features bars, beaches, babes and traditional Fijian food.

MAMANUCA ISLANDS EVENTS

The Hindu Community celebrates Thaipusam in January by jabbing hooks through their faces and backs. Probably best just to watch, then…

The Mamanuca Islands play host to the Rip Curl Surfing Championships in January. Beach bodies abound.

When April rolls around, the Auckland to Musket Cove Yacht Rally sails in. Give them a warm welcome – they’ve come all the way from New Zealand.

July brings with it the Bula Festival.Cue parades, performances, food stalls and, most importantly, parties.

New Year is a big celebration all across Fiji, with plenty of opportunities to get just as disorderly as you would back home.

WHEN TO GO

The weather is warm and sunny, with winter often just a few degrees cooler than summer.
Winter is still warm, but not as unpleasantly humid as the summer months.
In summer, there is a higher chance of tropical rain. However, this often provides welcome relief from the sticky heat.

GETTING AROUND

It’s easy to catch a taxi in Nadi, but make sure it’s a registered one ordered by your hotel. Unscrupulous locals will gladly rip you off if you look like an easy target.
If you’re island hopping, everything you need is usually within walkingdistance.
Boats will get you from island to island if you don’t fancy forking out for a helicopter. All transport options are available from hotels.

Mamanuca Islands official guide