Located to the south of Viti Levu, the Southern Islands comprise Kadavu Island – home to scenic hiking trails and the world famous diving spot of Great Astrolabe Reef – and Vatulele Island – famous for some of Fiji’s best beaches, limestone caves and ancient rock paintings – just perfect for adventurous couples celebrating a honeymoon or romantic getaway holiday.
Beqa Island – renowned for Fijian fire-walkers as well as scuba diving, snorkeling and surfing at Frigate Passage – is sometimes included in the southern islands, although is located closer to Viti Levu Island.
On scenic Kadavu Island, hike through dense rainforest, discover breathtaking views from high volcanic peaks and spot colourful native birds, including the colourful Kadavu parrot, the elusive whistling dove, the honey-eater and fantail.
Dive the world famous Great Astrolabe Reef, which stretches for 30km off the northeast coast of Kadavu or surf the reef breaks off Nagigia Island.
On neighbouring Vatulele, check out the island's curious red prawns, famous rock paintings and Fiji's most skilful makers of tapa cloth (known as masi).
The islanders consider the red prawns sacred and are forbidden to kill or harm them in any way.
At any one of the island's four villages, watch island woman pounding strips of bark, flattening and softening the fibres sufficiently to make into the highest quality masi. The masi comes from the bark of the paper mulberry tree. The dyed tapa cloth typically features traditional triangle motifs.
And don't miss a visit to Vatulele's famous petroglyph’s – early Fijian rock art, dated at 3000 years old located only a kilometre from the island's resort.
Covering an area of 32sq km (12sq mi), Vatulele is located about 32km (20mi) south of Viti Levu.
At Beqa Island, surf waves at world-famous Frigate Passage, dive Namalata Reef, kayak or dive the turquoise waters of Beqa Lagoon or watch legendary Fijian fire-walkers defy hot embers at Dakuni village. Read more on diving in Fiji…
The southern islands of Vatulele, Davui, Yanuca and Wakaya offer a huge choice of resort accommodation for couples.
Vatulele Island Resort
Location: Vatulele Island (south of Viti Levu)
Rating: 5-star
Prices: from AUD1915 per room
Description: Choose from a range of traditional Fijian thatched-roofed bures or lodge in the Vale Viqi (Pink House) honeymoon bure, which comes with its own private beach, plunge pool and a unique two-person, face-to-face tub in the middle of the large bathroom. This luxurious resort sits on one of Fiji's best beaches, a gorgeous 1km-long stretch of sugar-white sand, and is a favourite haunt of Hollywood stars. Facilities incl.: Restaurant, bar, laundry service, massage, free Wi-Fi, room service, tennis court and various water sports.
Royal Davui Island Resort
Location: Beqa Island, Royal Davui Island
Rating: 5-star
Prices: from AUD1829 per room
Description: Set on 10 acres of lush tropical landscape, Royal Davui Island Resort offers the ultimate luxury escape. All stunning villas boast a private heated plunge pool and a relaxing spa bath. Top up your tan on the sun deck. The resort features private beach areas and a range of watersports including diving and snorkeling. Guest can indulge in a massage at the spa. Work out in the fitness centre, and then have a relaxing dip in the outdoor pool. All air-conditioned villas offer free WiFi and a twice daily maid service. Boasting stunning sea views, they also offer a dining and lounge area. The bathroom offers bath robes and free toiletries. A daily à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner are included – choose from a range of local and international cuisines. There is an onsite bar/restaurant, as well as room service. Royal Davui Resort access is by the Pacific Harbour Jetty which is a 2.5-hour drive from Nadi. The resort can arrange your transfers.
The Wakaya Club & Spa
Location: Wakaya Island, Lomaiviti Group (east of Viti Levu)
Rating: 5-star
Prices: from AUD2,543 per room
Description: The Wakaya Club & Spa is a luxury private island resort unlike any other in the world. This serene retreat in Fiji offers gracious living, sophisticated cuisine and unparalleled leisure opportunities in one of the most remote and pristine corners of the world.Ten free-standing waterfront Fijian suites or bures. Each bure is a luxurious hideaway located just steps from the Pacific ocean and is designed to indulge you in the beauty of the island while providing every conceivable comfort. Rates include all meals, beverages and 2 dives per day per certified diver. Couples Breeze Spa Retreats, Golf, Tennis, Snorkeling, fitness centre, Village Church and much more to explore on this 2,200 acre private island.
The best time to visit Kadavu is during the cooler winter season, from early-June to mid-October, when the weather is usually sunny and dry, with an average high temperature of 26°C (78°F).
Kadavu Island experiences a tropical climate, with a hot, humid and wet season from December to April and a slightly cooler, relatively dry season from June to October.
For more climate info: Kadavu Weather Guide…
Latest update: Southern Islands in Fiji: 28 January, 2023
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