Mamanuca Islands

About this place

The Mamanuca Islands are a volcanic archipelago west of Nadi and south of the Yasawas, among Fiji's most visited areas. The group has about 20 islands, around seven of which the sea covers at high tide. Being close to Nadi, it is the easiest choice if you have only a day or two to see Fiji's islands, with clear water, sandy beaches and living reefs. The islands belong to Nadroga-Navosa Province in Fiji's Western Division, and not all are inhabited. Monuriki became famous through the 2000 film Cast Away with Tom Hanks, and since 2016 the islands have been a filming location for the television series Survivor. The marine ecosystem here has national significance under Fiji's biodiversity plan. From the boat you see small flat islands ringed with white sand and others with sharp hills, like Monuriki, above turquoise water. Resorts spread beneath coconut palms, and from the air the reefs look like pale blue rings around the islands. People come for snorkelling, boat trips and day excursions. The islands lie west of Nadi, with Port Denarau as their gateway. Sources give 20 to 60 minutes to the nearer islands and up to an hour and 45 minutes to farther ones such as Tokoriki. Bring sunscreen and water, do not step on the reefs and dress modestly when visiting villages. Cyclone season runs from November to April, so check the weather before you travel.