Thinking of your next dream vacation? This complete Fiji 5-day itinerary is the designed specifically for you!
Five days is the perfect amount of time to experience Fiji’s breathtaking islands. I’ve put together a carefully planned itinerary that includes the best day tours that take you to Fiji’s most stunning islands for snorkeling and relaxing, as well as top-rated restaurants you can enjoy after each tour.
Forget about the attractions on land because we go to Fiji for the ocean and the beach. So let’s make the most of our five days by island hopping and snorkeling every single day.
This guide is detailed and comprehensive, with breakdowns of nearly all the top-rated day tours so you can see what each one is actually like. To kick things off, let’s take a quick look at how the ideal five days in Fiji look like.
Trip Overview
Day 0: Flight to Fiji
Start your journey
Ideally, book your flight to Fiji a month and a half or earlier to get the cheapest airfare.
You will likely end up with Fiji Airways as it offers direct flights from major cities worldwide. For example, you can fly from Los Angeles (LAX) to Fiji in just 10 hours.
As you book your flight to Fiji, some banks occasionally flag transactions on Fiji Airways’ website as potential fraud. If your payment doesn’t go through, call your bank to lift the block, or use trusted third-party booking platforms like Expedia or Skyscanner. I had to call my bank so that I could complete credit card payment on www.fijiairways.com.
Arriving Nadi International Airport
When you land in Fiji, you’ll step out of the plane onto an open-air second floor with railings overlooking the parked aircraft. Follow the marked path — it’s just a 3-minute walk into the main terminal. Nadi Airport is small, so you’ll find yourself right at the immigration area almost immediately upon entering the main terminal.
Since Fiji is visa-free for many nationalities, immigration is usually quick with little to no line. If you do need a visa, apply through immigration.gov.fj at least three weeks before arrival. Processing typically takes 7–14 days. Cost for the application is FJD 91 (≈ USD 40) for a single-entry visa and FJD 180 (≈ USD 80) for a multiple-entry visa.
Foriegn Exchange
After clearing immigration, you’ll enter baggage claim, where you can also exchange foreign currency at a reasonable rate. Since taxis only accept cash, it’s a good idea to have enough Fijian dollars (FJD) for your rides. Most other expenses such as hotels, restaurants and tours can usually be paid by credit card. Just note that most businesses will charge a 2 to 3 percent surcharge for credit card payments.
Exchanging about USD 100–150 into USD should comfortably cover taxis for the five days in Fiji, especially if you take advantage of free shuttles offered by day tours.
Airport Taxi
Once you collect your luggage, you’ll pass it through a quick x-ray scan. After that, follow the exit signs and turn left to reach the authorized taxi area. For first-time visitors, a typical taxi fare to Port Denarau is FJD 50, and to Wailoaloa Beach is FJD 25. Be sure to confirm the price with the driver before getting in.
Accommodations
If you’re looking for the most convenient place to stay, The Palms Denarau is hard to beat. It’s just a short stroll from where all the island day tours depart, so you can literally roll out of bed and be on your way to paradise. The property offers one, two, and three-bedroom apartments — we booked a two-bedroom since it was great value for the space, but to our surprise, we got a free upgrade to a three-bedroom when we checked in. They even let us check in at 8 am! Such a great start to our trip.
If you’re after something new and luxurious, Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa in Wailoaloa Beach is the place to be. Opened in 2024, this beachfront resort combines modern comfort with stunning ocean views. It’s perfect if you want to unwind in style — think infinity pools, chic restaurants, and beautiful sunsets right at your doorstep. We booked a junior suite on the upper level with a beach facing view and everything was perfect.
Day 1: Sabre by South Sea Sailing
Sabre by South Sea Sailing is one of the most popular tours in Fiji, and for good reason. Unlike traditional snorkeling trips that focus mainly on reefs and island stops, Sabre delivers a lively, social atmosphere. The experience is especially popular with younger travelers, where guests are encouraged to drink, dance, and dive into adventurous activities like jumping off the boat, paddleboarding, or relaxing on the front trampolines. It’s less about structured snorkeling and more about enjoying a floating party while taking in Fiji’s breathtaking scenery.
Sabre offers a younger, more party-style vibe, where guests can enjoy drinks, food, and music, along with snorkeling and paddleboarding once the boat anchors at the sandbar.
Free Pickup in Nadi
Sabre departs at 9:45 am, so expect to be picked up from your accommodation about one to two hours beforehand. Your exact pickup time will be listed in your booking confirmation email. Since the transfer is shared with other guests, you may be riding in a smaller shuttle or, on busier days, a larger coach.
Checking-in at Port Denarau
Sabre is operated by South Sea Cruises, the largest cruise tour company in Nadi. They also have the widest check-in counter at the Port Denarau passenger terminal, so it’s easy to spot. As you enter the terminal, you’ll immediately notice a line of guests waiting to check in.
Before you join the line, a staff member will ask you to scan a QR code for electronic check-in, similar to what airlines use. You’ll enter your confirmation number and names, and acknowledge their terms and conditions. This step helps speed up the process, so it’s worth doing.
When it’s your turn at the counter, simply provide your confirmation number. The staff will give you a wristband as proof of payment and check-in. From there, you’ll be directed to board the cruise at Dock A at 9:45 am.
As you enter the dock and start walking towards the Sabre’s boat, you will be greeted with live music performed by the friendly staff – the perfect way to start this amazing tour.
Type of Boat and Layout
Sabre by South Sea Sailing uses a custom-built boat unlike anything else you’ll see at Port Denarau. It’s a large ocean voyager sailing catamaran, the first of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Most areas are covered with shaded canopies to keep guests comfortable, and at the front of the boat you’ll find custom-built trampolines netted over the water. Seating options are plentiful, from booths and day beds to bean bags and traditional tables with chairs. I recommend boarding early to grab a booth, as it’s spacious enough for an adult to stretch out completely.
Onboard Amenities and Experiences
As you step aboard Sabre, you’ll be welcomed with a refreshing drink, including champagne. During lunch, complimentary beer and wine are available for two hours, while any alcoholic beverages outside that window can be purchased separately. Once the boat anchors at the destination sandbar, the crew sets up a water slide and paddleboards for everyone to enjoy. You can also leap into the sea from a designated jump spot on the side of the catamaran. And if snorkeling is more your style, gear is provided.
Unlimited beer and wine are included for two hours during lunch, with additional charges applying outside this window.
Sabre’s final stop is a sandbar near Malolo Island. A sandbar is a small strip of white sand surrounded by clear, shallow water that appears and disappears with the tides, creating a natural ocean playground.
Once the boat anchors, the crew will lead a guided snorkeling tour around the sandbar. The water here is shallow and crystal clear, and in some spots, you can even stand up, while the deepest areas are only about five meters.
For those who want to swim or play, you can jump off the side of the boat, slide into the water from the water slide, or paddle around on one of the boats provided.
If you’d rather stay dry, you can simply relax on the deck, soak up the sun, and sip on your favorite drink.
BBQ Lunch
Lunch is prepared by an onboard chef, who grills fresh chicken and fish right on the boat. When the food is ready, the crew will announce it over a megaphone so everyone can hear. Don’t forget to pair your meal with a refreshing Fiji Beer.
After lunch, you’ll have more time to snorkel or enjoy the other activities available on board. The boat then departs to return to the port, arriving by 4:45 pm. On the way back to the port, crew members will perform live music on board, and sometimes encourage guests to do the bula dance with them. It is a fun and lively ending to an amazing island tour.
Nadina Authentic Fijian Restaurant
For dinner, I recommend staying at the port to enjoy authentic Fijian cuisine. This means skipping the free shuttle back to your hotel. If you’re staying at The Palms, however, you can simply walk back to your room after your meal.
Nadina is tucked towards the back of the shopping area, right next to the Indian restaurant Indigo. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and I suggest choosing a spot by the water to enjoy the sunset while you dine.
The restaurant serves a variety of local dishes. My top recommendations are:
- Kokoda – Fiji’s famous ceviche-style dish, made with raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk. This is a common dish you’ll see but every restaurant makes it a little different.
- Kovu – A traditional Fijian specialty where chicken, fish, pork, or vegetables are marinated with turmeric, ginger, and onion, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. Note that this dish takes 40 minutes to prepare so order as you sit down.
- Grilled octopus – Large octopus tentacles that are tender, smoky, and full of flavor. I was pleasantly surprised by this dish because it wasn’t chewy at all, and the smoky notes really enhanced the overall flavor.
- Tavioka Vakalolo – A traditional Fijian dessert made with steamed cassava balls infused with coconut and sugar, creating a chewy, sweet treat. It’s a local favorite and we enjoyed it a lot.
Day 2: Cruisin Fiji Authentic Fijian Day Cruise
One of Fiji’s biggest attractions is Monuriki Island, famously known as the filming location for Cast Away starring Tom Hanks. Cruisin Fiji is the only tour operator with exclusive access to this island, thanks to their special relationship with the local villagers who own it.
This full-day tour takes you to three stunning islands, each offering fantastic snorkeling spots. Lunch is served on Monuriki (Cast Away) Island, and afterward, you’ll have time to explore the island itself.
Because visitor numbers are kept low, the marine life around Monuriki is thriving. The reefs are colorful and healthy, and while snorkeling you may encounter sea turtles, octopus, lionfish, and even reef sharks.
Cruisin Fiji offers an island-hopping adventure to three islands, with the final stop at the famous Castaway filming location.
Paid Pickup in Nadi
Cruisin Fiji is one of the few tours that charges for pickup and drop off in Nadi. If you’re staying on Denarau Island there is no additional charge. If you need pickup and drop off, the price is 35 FJD each way to Nadi, however, if there are other guests also needing shuttle, the cost of the transport is divided among the number of people.
Checking-in at Port Denarau
Cruisin Fiji’s check-in counter is outside the building by the pier, in one of those wooden booths. Guest names are checked off on a piece of paper with handwriting instead of using digital device, showing that this operator is more casual.
Once it’s your turn, sign the paper and pay the shuttle fee and you will be directed to Dock A at 8:45am departure.
Type of Boat and Layout
Cruisin Fiji uses a medium-sized boat with fixed seats instead of tables like those on the Sabre. This setup makes the ride feel more like a scenic transfer between islands rather than a full onboard experience.
Onboard Amenities and Experiences
You’ll enjoy unlimited bottled beverages throughout the day, including as many Fiji beers as you like. Snorkeling gear is also provided for free, though I recommend bringing your own for comfort and hygiene.
Most of the boat is shaded, offering a nice escape from the sun, but you can head to the front deck if you want to tan or enjoy the sea breeze. Other than that, the boat is quite simple — it’s really all about getting you to the islands.
First Stop: Mana Sandbar
The first snorkeling stop of the day is a stunning white sandbar surrounded by crystal blue waters. The deepest area reaches about 7 meters, where you’ll find the word “Bula” spelled out with rocks on the ocean floor, a fun and uniquely Fijian spot for underwater selfies. Around most of the sandbar, the water is only 2 to 3 meters deep, making it perfect for beginners. You can spend your time taking photos on the sandbar or simply float around and admire the colorful marine life.
Scond Stop: Monu Island
Soon after leaving the sandbar, you’ll arrive at a beautiful cove surrounded by rocky cliffs and underwater rock formations. The water here is about 7 meters deep at its deepest point, though most areas are only around 2 to 3 meters. You can snorkel around, dive down to explore the rock crevices, or have some fun jumping off the boat while it’s anchored. Staff will take photos of you jumping off the boat and post on Cruisin Fiji’s Facebook page the following day.
Final Stop: Monuriki Island (“Cast Away” movie location)
The last stop of the tour is the famous Monuriki Island, where Tom Hanks and his buddy Wilson filmed the movie Cast Away. Sadly, Wilson was stolen long ago, so you won’t be seeing him here anymore.
When you arrive, a smaller boat will take you from the main vessel to the island. Be sure to bring your snorkeling gear with you, as you’ll spend the rest of the day here. Many guests forget and leave their gear on the boat, missing out on snorkeling around this iconic island.
Lunch is usually ready upon arrival and includes grilled chicken, fish, salad, and traditional Fijian appetizers. Grab a plate, find a spot under the canopy, and enjoy the same ocean view Tom Hanks had in Cast Away.
After lunch, the crew offers a short guided tour of the island, which takes about ten minutes. They’ll show you the spots where native birds nest underground and the area where Tom Hanks cracked open his first coconut with a rock. On the other side of the island, you’ll find the word “Help Me” spelled out with rocks — a fun photo opportunity to prove that you were here.
After a tour of the island, grab your snorkeling gear and explore the beautiful underworld of Cast Away island. The corals and marinelife are surprisingly well preserved, due to low volume of boats entering the island. We saw a lion fish, and an octopus, which we spent a long time observing and filming. Seeing an octopus is pretty rare for snorkelers so it made our day.
Around 3 pm, the boat heads back toward Port Denarau, arriving at approximately 5 pm. This completes iconic tour to the Cast Away island.
Sails @ Denarau
After returning to Port Denarau, take a short three-minute walk east and you’ll reach one of the most popular restaurants in the area. If you’re celebrating something special (we saw several birthday parties while we were there), it’s worth making a reservation in advance through their website—especially if you want one of those coveted tables by the water.
The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, though most guests choose to dine outside to enjoy the beautiful harbor view at night. We were originally seated indoors but later requested to move to a table by the water. The staff were incredibly friendly and accommodating, making the switch for us without any hassle.
Sails is best known for its gigantic seafood platter that can feed four to six people. Since it was just me and my wife, we opted for two main dishes that caught our eye instead.
- Mama Raj’s Signature Crab Curry – A truly unique Fijian creation that blends Indian curry with seafood—a rare combo in Indian cuisine. The crab takes center stage here, with the curry acting more as a flavorful sauce to complement it. There’s plenty of curry soup for dipping your roti, and Sails cooked it to perfection. An absolute must-try when in Fiji.
- Celebration Fish – Sail’s famous whole fish that takes about 40 minutes to prepare. The skin comes out perfectly crispy while the inside stays tender and juicy. It’s coated in a rich house-made sauce, with extra sauces on the side. We got the crab first, but the fish completely stole the show. Definitely worth the wait.
Day 3: South Sea Cruises Ultimate Encounters: Snorkel With Sharks
Swimming with sharks is one of the top attractions in Fiji. This activity is usually done by snorkeling or freediving without an oxygen tank, though you can pay extra to scuba dive with the sharks if you prefer. Most people, including me, choose to snorkel — and honestly, that’s the best way to do it. Sharks move fast, and snorkeling lets you follow them more freely, whereas scuba diving tends to feel more static.
Out of all the day tours I’ve joined in Fiji, this one was by far my favorite. The shark site is located away from the shore of Kuata Island, making the experience feel truly wild and untouched. You’ll see plenty of reef sharks gliding around, along with schools of smaller fish swimming close by. The water is quite shallow, around 5 to 10 meters deep, so you don’t have to dive down much to see these amazing animals.
This tour is also the most expensive one at around about $179 USD, while most other day tours in Fiji range from $100 to $150 USD. Still, for what you get, I’d say it’s worth every dollar.
This shark encounter tour was my favorite and one that I’d happily do all over again.
Free Pick up in Nadi
Free shuttle pickup is available from Crowne Plaza at 7:10 am, making the earliest pickup time out of all the tours. As of all the other tours from South Sea Cruises, pickup and dropoff are completely free, which I thought was a differentiation as Taxis aren’t cheap here (30 FJD each way) and the tour itself isn’t all that cheap.
Checking-in at Port Denarau
Line-up and check-in at South Sea Cruises’s large check-in counter inside the port Denarau. South Sea Cruises is the largest and most popular tour company so there is always a lot of people in line for check-in, but the wait is usually less than 15 minutes, with the quickest being less than 5, depending on the day.
After checking-in, you have time to explore the shopping around the port until the departure time.
Type of Boat and Layout
The shark encounter in Fiji takes place at Kuata Island, about two hours away from Port Denarau via South Sea Cruises’ large, high speed catamaran. This three level vessel is designed to transport guests to the Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands. Along the way, the boat stops at several islands, including the popular South Sea Island. The journey can feel a bit long, but the views of turquoise waters and scattered islands make it enjoyable.
Onboard Amenities and Experiences
There’s both indoor and outdoor seating, plus a small bar selling coffee and snacks. The restrooms are surprisingly clean, considering how many passengers are onboard. On the upper deck, there’s also a VIP lounge area reserved for resort guests, kind of like an airport lounge at sea. If you’ve booked a stay at one of the island resorts, you’ll likely be traveling in this section as part of your transfer.
As freedivers, we always bring our long fins when traveling, though it’s rare to see others doing the same on regular snorkeling tours. This was the first time we spotted several other freedivers with their long fins on the same boat, a good sign that the shark encounter site is both scenic and deep enough to attract serious underwater enthusiasts.
What to Expect at Barefoot Kuata Resort
Your final destination is Barefoot Kuata Resort, though it’s not the catamaran’s final stop, so make sure you get off here after about two hours of travel.
Upon arrival, you will be greet with the warmth of Fijian hospitality. Resort staff gathers at the beach sining to welcome your arrival.
Barefoot Kuata Resort has a designated area for day use guests, located on the south side of the resort. This area has a swimming pool, sun beds, and a beach bar, all built separately from the main resort facilities for non staying visitors. Upon arrival, find a seat and complete a short waiver form by scanning a QR code (the staff will guide you through the process).
Once everyone in the group is ready, the staff will take you out on small boats for about 15 minutes into the open sea, far enough to feel remote but still within sight of Kuata Island.
I originally thought the snorkeling site would be somewhere near the island’s shore, but to my surprise, it was actually quite far out. The crew didn’t really explain how long the ride would take, so I wasn’t sure what to expect until we finally arrived at the shark site.
Snorkeling with Sharks at Kuata Island
The snorkeling shark site at Kuata Island is unusual. There is no visible land in sight, just open water with areas shallow enough to reveal the stunning turquoise color of the ocean, a rare sight in the middle of the sea.
The snorkeling guide leads the group to a section centered around rock formations, which is where they feed the fish and sharks. The animals swim back and forth here, drawn by the food.
Once you enter the water, you’ll see both White Tip and Black Tip reef sharks. They are extremely fast swimmers, so chasing them isn’t realistic. Instead, I recommend spotting one that is swimming toward you, duck diving, and swimming in the same direction, this way you’ll likely get a good shot swimming alongside the shark.
If you’re a beginner snorkeler, simply staying on the surface also give you great views of the sharks. But for freedivers, this spot is a real blessing. The formations are ideal, deep enough to see the sharks clearly, yet shallow enough to take in everything at once, making it both safe and enjoyable.
When time is up, the snorkeling guide calls everyone back to the boat. I chose to go in last, which turned out to be the best moment to enjoy the water and sharks all by myself while other guests were busy taking off their fins and climbing back onto the boat.
Buffet Lunch at Barefoot Kuata Resort
After returning from the shark site, a buffet lunch is ready back at the resort. Dry off and fill your plate with a delicious Fijian meal. The fried chicken and fish are especially well done, so be sure to grab a few extra pieces.
Aside from the welcoming juice, beverages are paid separately so only the food is included in the tour.
Guided Snorkeling in the Afternoon
The resort offers a free snorkeling session to all guests, including day visitors. Check with the staff for the exact time and walk along the beach to the northern end of the resort, where the dive shop is located.
The snorkeling site is just off the shore, right in front of the beach. The coral here is absolutely stunning — the best we saw during our five days in Fiji. We even spotted two reef sharks while snorkeling!
After returning, we realized we were the only ones who took advantage of this free snorkeling session. Most other guests had no idea it existed and spent the rest of the day relaxing at the resort, which seemed like a missed opportunity.
Don’t miss out on the free snorkeling tour provided to all resort guests.
Sailing Back to Port Denarau
Before the tour ends, the crew performs live music, showcasing their impressive vocals and instrumental skills. Fijian people are naturally talented singers, and we always enjoy listening to their performances.
South Sea Cruises’ catamaran picks up guests at Kuata Island around 3:30 pm and begins the journey back to the main island. The ride is fairly long, making it a perfect opportunity to relax and take in the beautiful scenery along the way.
Indigo Indian Asian Restaurant & Bar
Indian food in Fiji is unique because it doesn’t strictly follow traditional Indian recipes. Instead, it incorporates the abundance of local seafood, creating a one-of-a-kind cuisine that highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients rather than letting spices take center stage.
Indigo is the only Indian restaurant at Port Denarau, and it’s usually packed during dinner time. Many visitors come here after a long day of snorkeling and island hopping — and we were no different.
After trying the amazing crab curry at Sails restaurant, we wanted to see how Indigo’s version compared.
- Masala Mud Crab Curry – This dish is perfect for sharing between two people. The crab here is noticeably larger than the one we had at Sails, and the curry itself is thicker and more flavorful. It’s not spicy at all, but it’s packed with layers of Indian spices that really shine through. We usually go for lamb or vegetarian curries at Indian restaurants, but since we were in Fiji, we couldn’t resist trying this seafood twist. The combination was absolutely delicious, especially with a side of naan. We loved it so much that we’re planning to recreate it when we get home.
Day 4: Whales Tale Cruise Mamanuca Islands All-Inclusive Sailing Cruise
This legendary tour began in 1984 and remains one of the most popular cruises among visitors to Fiji. The Whales Tale Cruise takes you to Schooner Island, a private and uninhabited island that only Whales Tale guests can access.
Many travelers find themselves torn between the Whales Tale Cruise and Captain Cook Cruises, but after carefully comparing both and reading countless reviews online, we decided to go with Whales Tale—and we were not disappointed.
Free Pick up in Nadi
Whales Tale Cruise offers free pickup from most Nadi hotels, with a scheduled pickup time of around 8:30 am at the Crowne Plaza. We were quite lucky that the day we went wasn’t too crowded — only two other passengers shared the nine-seater van with us, making the short ride to Port Denarau very comfortable.
Checking in At Port Denarau
The Whales Tale Cruise has a single check-in counter inside the main Port Denarau building. The process is refreshingly simple. No online forms or digital fuss, you just sign your name on a sheet of paper, and that’s it. Easy and stress-free!
The tour departs at 9:45 am, making it one of the later tours that leaves the dock.
Type of Boat and Layout
Unlike most modern catamarans used for Fiji day cruises, the Whales Tale Cruise sails on a traditional schooner that looks like something out of a pirate movie. The vessel is mostly wooden, giving it a nostalgic, old-world charm that stands out from the sleek, plastic-looking boats you often see. There’s a mix of seating areas. Some built-in benches around the main deck and additional plastic chairs scattered around. It’s not the most “Instagram-perfect” setup, but it feels authentic and laid-back.
Onboard Amenities and Experiences
Inside the cabin, there is a small open kitchen where you can watch the chefs prepare lunch, a fun touch that makes the experience feel cozy and personal. As the boat sails out, a continental breakfast is served along with unlimited drinks including wine, beer, champagne, juice, and soft drinks. The vibe is relaxed and festive right from the start.
Snorkeling gear is provided as part of the tour, though many guests bring their own. On our trip, one guest was celebrating a birthday and the crew prepared a special cake for her, which everyone got to share, adding a sweet communal moment to the day.
The boat can hold up to 55 people, but there were only about 15 on board that day. One crew member mentioned that the next day was fully booked, so we felt lucky to enjoy such a small, intimate group.
Arriving Schooner Island
The final destination is a private, uninhabited island called Schooner Island. It is tiny, with a volleyball court on the sand, a few canopies, and a sunbed. The group gathers in the dining area to start the kava ritual.
Kava is a beverage made from the root of the kava plant, also called yaqona in Fiji. It is an important part of Fijian culture, used to welcome guests, mark special occasions, or conduct formal gatherings.
Snorkeling Session
After the kava ritual, a crew member led a snorkeling session around the island. The water was mostly shallow, only about two meters deep, making it perfect for exploring. The underwater world was well-preserved and absolutely beautiful. We spotted a lobster tucked inside a rock and a spotted stingray resting quietly beneath another.
At one point, one of the crew members dove in alone with his freediving gear and came back holding a giant octopus. We later learned that he actually lives on the island by himself, so he knows the reef better than anyone else. When he told me he was going to catch an octopus before diving in, I thought he was joking, but he surfaced with the biggest octopus I have ever seen.
Back on land, another surprise was waiting for us. A baby sea turtle had washed up on the shore and wasn’t moving. One of the crew members examined it closely and realized it had been attacked by a shark. Sadly, the little turtle didn’t make it. It was a heartbreaking sight, but also a reminder of how raw and real nature can be out here.
Buffet Lunch at Schooner Island
After snorkeling, everyone gathered around for lunch, ready to dig in after a fun morning in the water. The buffet was simple and laid-back, but to be honest, the food wasn’t exactly memorable. The main options were grilled chicken and hot dogs, with some white bread, salad, and a few cold sides. It did the job and kept us full, but definitely wasn’t the highlight of the day.
Free Time in the Afternoon
After lunch, you can choose to kayak, sun tan, play beach volley ball, or continue snorkeling. We chose to snorkel again as the guided snorkeling in the morning was only on one side of the island.
Returning to Port Denarau
Around 2 pm, the crew wrapped up the island visit and everyone headed back to the boat. I did feel the stop at Schooner Island was a little short, just when I started to really relax it was time to go. But since the crew needed to get us back to Port Denarau by 4 pm, I guess that is just how the schedule works.
On the way back, the crew started singing and it turned into a mini concert that lasted a good half hour. Their voices were amazing and everyone joined in, clapping and singing along. The energy on board was great and it was such a fun and heartwarming way to end the day.
Free Shuttle Back to Hotel
Since today’s tour wraps up earlier, it’s the perfect chance to unwind and make the most of your hotel’s amenities. I stayed at Crowne Plaza Fiji, so after hopping on the tour’s free shuttle back to the resort, I took some time to clean up and rinse my snorkeling gear because salt water can wear down plastic pretty quickly, so it’s always a good idea to wash everything after each dive.
Just in time for sunset, the sky turns golden and Crowne Plaza’s west facing private beach puts on an incredible show. Grab a sunbed by the pool or beach, order a loaded coconut (a whole coconut spiked with Fijian rum), and simply enjoy the moment because this is what Fiji is all about.
Harvest Restaurant – Crowne Plaza
Harvest Restaurant is the main dining venue at Crowne Plaza Fiji, offering a buffet breakfast in the morning and an à la carte menu for lunch and dinner.
We decided to eat here instead of the more popular La Bottega Fiji because we wanted to try something that felt more local, and Harvest turned out to be the perfect choice.
- Crumbed Calamari: While it’s a common dish around the world, the version here is exceptional. The calamari is large, tender, and cooked perfectly, giving us high hopes for the rest of our meal.
- Ika Vakalolo: A traditional Fijian dish featuring fish simmered in creamy coconut milk. Harvest adds a unique touch by pairing it with pineapple instead of the usual mashed potato or cassava. The serving size is very generous, with two large pieces of fish that could easily be shared.
- Butter Chicken: A beloved Indian classic with a Fijian twist, rich, flavorful, and beautifully balanced with local spices.
Day 5: Malamala Beach Club
Malamala Beach Club is the world’s first island beach club and one of Fiji’s most popular destinations. Located on one of the Mamanuca Islands, it’s just a 30-minute boat ride from the port, making it super easy to access for travelers.
For this tour, we booked with South Sea Cruises and chose a half-day pass, which I highly recommend, especially since today is the last day of our Fijian trip and we didn’t want to rush through check-out.
Checking Out
After breakfast at the Crowne Plaza, check out with the front desk at 10:45 am so that you’re ready for pickup at 11:05 am. If you’re staying at other resorts, make sure you have enough time for checkout.
Free Pick up in Nadi
The half-day Malamala Beach Club tour with South Sea Cruises had a pickup at Crowne Plaza at 11:05, and as usual, they were right on time. Since it was our last day in Fiji and our flight wasn’t until the evening, we brought our luggage along on the shuttle and stored it at Port Denarau while we spent the day soaking up the sun at Malamala Beach Club.
Luggage Storage at Port Denarau
As soon as you arrive at Port Denarau, you’ll see the Tourist Information right in front of the passenger terminal. Instead of heading into the terminal to check in, just turn left and go through the door to the Tourist Information building. Inside, there are desks where the staff will happily store your luggage for the day. The latest pickup time is 8 pm.
We had two 28″ suitcases, and it cost 20 FJD, which is about 10 USD.
Don’t forget to keep your ticket with you. This makes picking up your luggage at the end of the day super smooth.
Checking-in at Port Denarau
Once our luggage was safely stored, we headed to South Sea Cruises’ check-in counter and followed the staff down to the dock to board the boat.
Type of Boat and Layout
The Malamala Beach Club Day Tour uses the same large, three-level catamaran that also takes travelers to South Sea Island and Kuata Island. The boat is spacious and super stable, so the ride is really comfortable. I recommend sitting inside where the seats are cushioned and it’s air conditioned.
Arriving Malamala Beach Club
The entrance to Malamala is a long, narrow pier, and the shallow waters around the island shimmer in a stunning turquoise.
Follow the path toward the island, and you’ll soon arrive at an open-air building with a check-in counter. Present your tickets to the staff, and they’ll give you a number tag. This tag does double duty:
- It’s the number you’ll use for any purchases on the island.
- You’ll need to clear your tab under this number to get your return boat ticket.
Once you have your tag, head over to the towel section to grab your beach towels. With that done, take a stroll around the island to find the spot that suits you best. We picked a sunbed near the pier so we could easily snorkel and hop on the paddle boat.
You will need to pay extra to use day beds and cabanas but I don’t think it’s worth it unless you have a large party and want privacy of a beachside cabana.
Since we had a late, hearty breakfast that morning, we decided to keep it light with just two loaded coconuts at Malamala and spent the rest of the day enjoying the water.
How to Spend the Day at Malamala Beach Club
Malamala is a beach club, so the focus here is all about fun, food, and drinks. You can spend the day lounging by the infinity pool with a cocktail in hand, enjoying chef-prepared dishes, or you can do what we did, snorkel in the crystal-clear waters and paddle around the island.
We kicked things off with a drunken coconut, Fijian wine infused with flavors, while relaxing on the sunbeds. Then it was time to put on our snorkel gear and explore the waters around the island. Honestly, the water felt a bit chilly even on this sunny September day. The shallow areas were fine, but as we ventured further out, the cool temperature became noticeable, so we stuck closer to shore.
After snorkeling, we hopped on the paddle boats and kayaks, which are free for all guests. It was a fun way to explore the island from a different perspective.
At the end of the day, we used the shower facilities to freshen up and cleared our tab before heading back to the pier. The boat arrives back at the port around 5:15 pm.
Bonefish Seafood Restaurant
Having tried almost all the restaurants at Port Denarau, we wrapped up our trip with a final night at Bonefish Seafood. Like Nadina and Indigo, you can request a table right by the water to enjoy the sunset. No matter how many times we’ve dined here, the view never gets old.
As the name suggests, Bonefish focuses on seafood. While many guests go for the classic seafood plate, we wanted something more unique to Fiji, so we tried the mud crab in coconut sauce. To round out the meal, we also ordered a few other dishes and, of course, Fiji beer:
- Whole Crab in Coconut Sauce – The star of the night, the mud crab is cooked in a rich, fragrant coconut sauce that balances sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors beautifully. I thought this was the best crab dish out of the three we’ve had in Fiji and would definitely choosing this one if you’re a crab lover.
- Fiji’s Famous Kokoda – Fresh fish marinated in lime juice, tossed with coconut cream, tomatoes, onions, and chili. It’s refreshing, creamy, and packed with tropical flavors.
- Crisp Fried Calamari – Lightly battered and fried to golden perfection, the calamari is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside, perfect with their homemade tartar sauce.
Whole Crab in Coconut Sauce at Bonefish Seafood Restaurant is the best mud crab dish we’ve had in Fiji.
Heading to Nadi International Airport
After dinner, head to the Tourist Information desk in front of the port terminal to pick up your luggage. The staff there can also help arrange a taxi to the airport, which costs around 50 FJD.
Taxi fare from Port Denarau to Nadi Airport is 50 FJD.
Nadi International Airport is fairly small, so you’ll be at your gate in about 30 minutes. Inside the departure terminal, there are plenty of souvenirs to browse, perfect for grabbing a little memento to take home.
And just like that, our five-day Fiji adventure comes to an end, full of amazing snorkeling, delicious food, and unforgettable memories. If you have any questions or need tips for your own trip, feel free to reach out.
Review of Fiji Airways Premier Lounge at Nadi International Airport
If you’re flying business class with Fiji Airways or plan to use their lounge at Nadi International Airport, here’s a quick rundown of what to expect.
Fiji Airways has a designated check-in counter for business class passengers, located at the far right of the terminal. The moment you check in, you already start feeling those premium perks kick in. After getting your boarding pass, you’ll be directed to a separate security and immigration lane — just for business class travelers. I’ve never seen this before at any other airport, and honestly, it was such a pleasant surprise.
The whole process from entering the terminal to clearing immigration took less than five minutes. It’s one of those rare times you really feel the benefit of flying business class. Most airports still make you queue up with everyone else, but not Nadi — they’ve nailed the experience here.
Nadi Airport has an expedited fast lane for business class passengers, letting you breeze through check-in and immigration in under five minutes.
Once you pass through the souvenir shops, take the escalator down to the lounge. When I arrived, it was completely packed, every single seat was taken, so don’t be surprised if you have to look for a bit before finding a spot.
The food selection was quite basic, with mostly international options. I was hoping for some local Fijian dishes, but there weren’t any. The bar, however, made up for it with plenty of cocktails and friendly staff. The overall space felt clean, modern, and well-kept, even with the crowd.
I also tried the shower facilities, which were surprisingly spacious and spotless — perfect if you want to freshen up before your flight. Just head over to the bar and ask one of the staff, and they’ll sort it out for you.
Overall, while the lounge can get busy and the food could be a bit more local, the smooth check-in, private security lane, and great service made the experience stand out. It’s definitely a nice way to wrap up your Fiji trip before heading home.
