Malolo Island

This post contains some memorable photograph from a recent vacation to Malolo Island in the Mamanuca archipelagos, west of the Fijian main island of Viti Levu. 

Like most tourist we arrived in Fiji at Nadi International Airport.  From the airport we made our way to Port Denarau on the west coast of Viti Levu to board a SeaFiji speed boat to Malolo Island.

We arrived at the Malolo Island Resort (one of several resorts on the island) early in the evening.  We were surprised to be greeted by the resort staff on the jetty (pictured below).  The staff were singing a welcome song and presented us with decorative shell necklace.

We stayed in a cute little bungalow (or “bure”) located less than 30 meters from the crystal clear water.

The beach area consisted of a relatively narrow stretch of golden coarse grained sand.  The island’s coral reef was conveniently located less than 30 meters offshore, excellent for casual snorkeling.  Alternatively, one could relax in one of the resort provided deck chairs or hammocks.

Adjacent the resort’s dining area was this beautifully landscaped, but rarely used, split-level pool.

One afternoon as we were dining for lunch, this chap fell from the heavens onto our table.  We were just a tad freaked out.

A few fellow guests kayaking in calm waters of the early morning.

Enjoying a Piña colada in the resort’s bar and watching the sunset.

Every evening, shortly after sunset one of the resort’s staff performs a somewhat tacky but spectacular torch lighting ceremony.

View from the dinning area overlooking the pool and musicians playing Fijian and contemporary western music.

On the final night of our stay, the resort prepared traditional Fijian fare and invited a local group to perform.  The performance was concluded with a touching farewell to departing guests.

Due to the late arrival in Fiji we had to charter a speed boat to the island.  For the return trip to the main island we boarded the South Sea Cruises catamaran.

That concludes my brief review of our short but enjoyable stay in Fiji at the Malolo Island Resort.  The food was much better than I expected for an isolated resort and there were plenty of scheduled and unscheduled activities.  Many activities like kayaking, windsurfing, sailing and offshore snorkeling were free.  Lastly, I was very impressed with the kind and generous nature of the Fijian people.  Definitely worth a revisit!

Note: This post is not endorsed by the Malolo Island Resort.  There are probably dozens of comparable resorts all along the Mamanuca and Yasawa archipelagos.  Please consult with a travel review site (such as Trip Advisor) to find the best resort that fits your needs, financial or otherwise.  Happy Travels.