The Yasawa Islands are a chain of sun-kissed islands famous for crystal clear lagoons and gorgeous beaches – the perfect honeymoon destination for newlyweds wanting quiet times but with all the amenities of a 5-star resort nearby.
Stretching for almost 90km north-west of Viti Levu in Fiji, the Yasawa Islands epitomise the idyllic image of the South Pacific.
Less developed that the Mamanucas, the Yasawa Island group comprises more than 20 sun-kissed islands edged with luxurious 5-star resorts and countless soft white-sand beaches that gently shelve into tranquil reef-fringed lagoons – perfect for swimming, snorkelling and diving.
The Yasawa Islands feature rugged peaks and hilly grassland, perfect for scenic walks or horseback riding along coastal ridges – the vista from the southern summit of Naviti Island to the southern Yasawa Islands is one of the most photogenic views in Fiji.
Duck dive into the dark and mystical limestone caverns of Sawa-i-Lau Island, which featured in the movie Blue Lagoon, starring Brooke Shields; or swim alongside manta rays as they glide through the warm waters surrounding Naviti Island.
You can also explore the Yasawa Islands on a cruise with Blue Lagoon Cruises, which offer three-, four- and seven-day cruises, you’ll find a great island itinerary to suit your needs.
The Yasawa Islands offer honeymoon couples a great choice of 5-star beach resorts including Turtle Island Resort on Nunuya Levu Island and Yasawa Island Resort and Spa on Yasawa Island.
Turtle Island Resort
Location: Nanuya Levu Island
Rating: 5-star
Ave nightly price: AUD3,000 per room (All-inclusive)
Description: Unwind in front of an idyllic, half-moon-shaped beach overlooking ‘the Blue Lagoon’. Only couples and singles are accepted here (except during certain family weeks in July and at Christmas). All 14 individually decorated rooms feature MP3 docks and 24-hour room service. Conveniences include living rooms and refrigerators, and guests will appreciate thoughtful touches like free minibar items and bathrobes. Facilities incl.: Restaurant, bar, Hawaiian-style therapeutic massage and room service.
Yasawa Island Resort and Spa
Location: Yasawa Island, Yasawa Islands
Rating: 5-star
Ave nightly price: AUD1652 per room
Description: Set on one of Fiji's most remote islands and surrounded by 11 beaches, Yasawa Island Resort offers stunning ocean views, a restaurant and day spa. All meals and non-alcoholic beverages are included. Guests can play tennis, relax by the pool or go snorkelling, windsurfing and kayaking. The Baravi Spa is located just metres from the water’s edge and offers beautiful views from the massage deck. All accommodation at Yasawa Resort features Fijian décor and a patio offering ocean and beach views. A private open-air shower, secure lock-up drawer and a hammock are standard in all suites and bungalows. The restaurant serves an à la carte menu featuring locally-caught seafood. The chef can provide a picnic basket for private dining under the stars. You can enjoy poolside cocktails and free Wi-Fi at Manasa’s Bar. Yasawa Island is a 35-minute scenic flight from Nadi International Airport. It is then a 10-minute transfer to Yasawa Island Resort & Spa by the resort’s shuttle service.
The best time to visit the Yasawa Islands is during the dry winter season from June to September, when the weather is mainly dry and sunny – temperatures average a high of 28°C (82°F) but can range from a low of 18°C (64°F) to a peak of 32°C (90°F).
The seasonal transitional months of May and October can also be a good time to visit.
The wet season is characterised by brief but heavy showers from November to April with temperatures ranging from 22°C (64°F) to 31°C (87°F).
For more climate info: Fiji Weather Guide…
Lying north of the Mamanuca Islands, the Yasawa Islands stretch for 80km along the northwest coast of Viti Levu – about a 2-hour trip on a fast catamaran ferry from Nadi or much less by seaplane or helicopter.
The most convenient route to Fiji is by air to Nadi International Airport (NAN), located on the west coast of Viti Levu, about 10km (7mi) north of Nadi, and about 190km (120mi) northwest of Fiji's capital, Suva.
An alternative airport is Nausori International Airport (SUV), also known as Luvuluvu, located 23km (14mi) northeast of Suva. Nausori Airport mainly services domestic interisland flights but also receives direct flights from Auckland, NZ and Sydney, Australia.
Fiji is located in the South Pacific, 3000km east of Australia.
Read more about how to get to Fiji…
Latest update: The Yasawa Islands, Fij: 11 May, 2022
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