6 Best Day Trips in Fiji to Visit

If you are staying in Nadi and especially Denarau, you don’t need aboat charter to see the best of the Pacific. You can hop on a high-speed catamaran in the morning and be back in time for dinner at your hotel. But with so many islands to choose from, which one is right for you? I’ve put together a guide to the best 6 day trips in Fiji below while staying in Denarau.

1. Malamala Day Trip

If you want your island day to feel like a high-end party in paradise, Malamala Beach Club is the gold standard. Located just 25 minutes from Port Denarau, it’s best for Social butterflies, foodies, and those who love a “VIP” atmosphere. Read more in-depth of Malamala here.

What Makes Malamala Special?

Unlike other islands that are home to resorts or local villages, Malamala is purely for day guests. It feels like a private club in the middle of the ocean.

Malamala Highlights:

• The Infinity Pool: The poolside view overlooking the Mamanuca Islands is legendary. It’s the perfect spot for that “Instagram-perfect” photo.
• Private Cabanas: For a little extra, you can book a private beachside cabana with butler service. It’s the ultimate way to feel like a celebrity for a day.
• Gourmet Food: Forget standard buffets. Malamala offers a delicious à la carte menu ranging from light snacks to Pacific-inspired delicacies. I tried the skewers with fries and it was delicious ($39 FJD). Note: food and drinks are not included in ticket price.
• Crystal Clear Waters: Because the island is small, the water surrounding it is incredibly clear, making it a great spot for a quick snorkel between cocktails. Personal note: I find Malamala’s beach and water more cleaner than Beachcomber Island, Kadavu Lailai and Oglala’s cruises’ island.

Malamala Itinerary

• How to get there: Take a South Sea Cruises high-speed catamaran from Port Denarau.
• Departure: Full-day guests usually depart at 9:30 AM (or 10:00 AM for guests from the Coral Coast).
• Arrival at Island: You’ll be stepping onto the jetty by 10:00 AM.
• The Day: Spend your hours lounging by the infinity pool, snorkeling in the crystal-clear lagoon, or enjoying a long lunch at the restaurant.
• Return: Choose between the 4:15 PM or 5:15 PM boat back to the mainland, arriving at Port Denarau by 4:45 PMor 6:00 PM.

2. South Sea Island Day Trip

If you only have half a day or you want an island that feels like a giant tropical playground, South Sea Island is the place to be. This tiny “treasure island” is located just 30 minutes from Port Denarau and perfect for families with young children. They’re going to like the semi-submersible craft.

What Makes South Sea Island Special?

The island itself is so small you can walk around it in about ten minutes, but don’t let the size fool you. It is packed with activities. The South Sea Island  is very popular because it combines island time with the bells and whistles including snorkelling gear, buffet lunch and unlimited drinks at a nice price especially when travelling as a family or in groups.

South Sea Island Highlights

• The Semi-Submersible: If you want to see the coral and fish without getting your hair wet, hop into the “submarine” viewer. It’s perfect for toddlers or grandparents who want to see the “Finding Nemo” world from behind glass.
• All-Inclusive Food & Drinks: One of the best perks here is the all-inclusive buffet lunch and the unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks while you are on the island.
• Meke Performance: During lunch, you’ll be treated to traditional Fijian singing and dancing (except on Sundays), which brings a wonderful cultural touch to the day.

South Sea Itinerary

• How to get there: A quick 30-minute catamaran ride from Port Denarau.
• Departure: The boat leaves at 9:30 AM (Full Day/Combo) or 12:15 PM (Half Day).
• Arrival at Island: You’ll arrive at 10:00 AM or 12:45 PM.
• The Day: The “Combo Cruise” usually involves spending the morning on the island and the afternoon cruising through other islands, or vice-versa. Includes a semi-submersible coral viewer and a buffet lunch.
• Return: Boats head back at 3:00 PM or 5:15 PM, getting you back to Port Denarau by 6:00 PM.

3. Castaway Island Day Trip

Castaway Island Resort is a private resort island, and the day trip gives you “shipwrecked in luxury” vibe. Perfect for couples and honeymooners. Day trips is a much cheaper option to enjoy the Fiji island resort without paying an arm and a leg for staying overnight.

What Makes Castaway Island Special?

Castaway has a “boutique” feel. It’s less about loud music and more about white sand, swaying palm trees, and high-end service. If you want a more intimate island trip look no further. Also, it’s a bit further out than South Sea Island, so you get to enjoy a longer, scenic boat ride through the Mamanuca group.

Castaway Island Highlights

• Snorkeling off the Beach: You don’t need a boat to find the fish here. Just grab your mask and fins (included) and swim out a few meters to find vibrant coral gardens.
• The Food: Day trippers usually enjoy a delicious à la carte or buffet lunch at the beachfront restaurant. It’s a significant step up from your standard island BBQ.
• Freshwater Pools: You can use the resort’s beautiful pools, including an adults-only pool for those looking for a quiet moment (including kissing in the sunset).

Castaway Itinerary

• How to get there: A scenic 90-minute cruise from Port Denarau.
• Departure: The main day trip departs Port Denarau at 9:30 AM.
• Arrival at Island: You will arrive at the resort around 11:00 AM.
• The Day: Enjoy a delicious lunch at the beachside restaurant, swim in the freshwater pools, and snorkel right off the white sandy beach.
• Return: The catamaran departs Castaway at 4:20 PM, arriving back at Port Denarau at 6:00 PM.

Check out our blog on where to stay in Denarau for your day trip

4. Malolo Island Day Trip

Malolo Island is a larger, more lush island that is home to several resorts and local villages. A day trip here gives a more authentic Fiji Island vibe because you aren’t just on a tiny sand cay; you are on a volcanic island with hills and deep blue bays. Personal note: the view here is similar to Savusavu in Vanua Levu, Fiji.

What Makes Malolo Special?

Malolo has a very laid-back “old Fiji” feel. The resort where you’ll spend your day is designed like a colonial plantation, with huge verandas and beautiful gardens which is a nod to Fijian history.

Malolo Highlights

• The Pools & Bars: Malolo features a massive family pool and a separate, tranquil adults-only pool with a swim-up bar.
• Walking Trails: If you get restless sitting on a sun lounger, there are beautiful hiking trails that lead to the island’s summit for incredible views.
• Kid’s Club: If you’re traveling with little ones, Malolo has an excellent kid’s club that keeps them entertained while you enjoy a cocktail by the water.

Malolo Itinerary

• How to get there: High-speed catamaran from Port Denarau.
• Departure: Most day trips depart at 9:30 AM.
• Arrival at Island: You’ll arrive at the Malolo jetty around 11:05 AM.
• The Day: Relax by the swim-up bars, take a kayak out on the water, or hike the trails for a 360-degree view of the Mamanuca Islands.
• Return: The boat departs at 4:10 PM, reaching Port Denarau at 6:00 PM.

5. Mantaray Island Day Trip

If your main goal in Fiji is to see manta rays and untouched coral—then you need to head to the Yasawa Islands. Mantaray Island Resort is a bit of a journey (about 3 hours each way on the “Yasawa Flyer” catamaran), but it is worth every minute. It’s great for adventure seekers and marine life lovers.

What Makes Mantaray Special?

Mantaray island is located on a channel where the water is rich in nutrients, attracting incredible marine life. While the trip is long, the scenery on the way is spectacular. It’s like a mini-cruise.

Mantaray Highlights

• Manta Ray Swimming (Seasonal): From May to October, majestic manta rays frequent the channel. If they are spotted, the resort rings a bell, and you can jump in to swim alongside them.
• World-Class House Reef: Even if it’s not manta ray season, the snorkeling here is arguably the best in Fiji. The reef is just steps from the beach and is teeming with thousands of colorful fish.
• The “Remote” Factor: Because it is further away from the mainland, the water feels clearer and the island feels much more “wild” and untouched.

Mantaray Itinerary

• How to get there: Board the “Yasawa Flyer” catamaran for a 3-hour scenic journey.
• Departure: Early start! The boat leaves Port Denarau at 8:45 AM.
• Arrival at Island: You’ll arrive at Mantaray Island by 11:35 AM.
• The Day: You have about 3.5 hours on the island to snorkel the vibrant house reef and enjoy lunch. If it’s Manta Ray season (May–Oct) and they are spotted, you’ll be whisked out to swim with them!
• Return: The boat collects you at 2:55 PM, returning to Port Denarau by 6:00 PM.

6. Mana Island Day Trip

Mana Island is one of the largest resorts in the Mamanucas. It is so big that it actually has three different beach areas. This makes it a great choice if you are traveling in a group where everyone wants to do something different.

What Makes Mana Special?

Because Mana is an expansive resort, it never feels crowded. You can always find a private corner to yourself. It also features a “semi-submersible” boat, similar to South Sea Island, but it explores a different part of the reef system.

Mana Highlights

• Three Beaches: You have the choice of the Lagoon side (calm and great for kids), the North Beach (quiet and romantic), or Sunset Beach.
• Activities Galore: From coral planting (an amazing way to give back to the ocean) to traditional basket weaving, there is always something happening on Mana.
• Modern Amenities: Since it’s a large resort, the facilities are top-notch, including clean changing rooms and multiple bars.

Mana Itinerary

• How to get there: A high-speed catamaran ride through the Mamanuca group.
• Departure: Departs Port Denarau at 9:30 AM.
• Arrival at Island: You’ll be on the island by 10:45 AM.
• The Day: Spend your time on the Lagoon beach for water sports or the North Beach for a quiet nap. A buffet lunch is typically included.
• Return: The return vessel leaves at 4:40 PM, arriving at Port Denarau at 6:00 PM.

How much is the flight to Nadi?

FAQ

1. Which island is best for a “Beach Club” experience?

Malamala Beach Club is the top choice for travellers wanting a chic, upbeat atmosphere. It features an infinity pool and private cabanas. Unlike most resort day trips, Malamala is designed specifically for day-trippers, so you won’t feel like you’re “crashing” a hotel. Read more about it in the blog section.

2. Which trip is best for families with toddlers or young children?

South Sea Island is the most popular pick for young families. It is the closest island to Port Denarau (only 30 minutes away), which minimizes travel time. It also features a semi-submersible coral viewer, allowing kids to see the reef and “Finding Nemo” fish without getting in the water. Food and drinks are included for everyone which when you think about it saves a lot of money.

3. Can I swim with Manta Rays on a day trip?

Yes, but only at Mantaray Island Resort. This trip takes you further north into the Yasawa Islands. Please note that Manta Ray sightings are seasonal (typically May to October) and depend on the tides. This is a longer day (approx. 3 hours travel each way), so it’s best for dedicated adventure seekers and if you’re a couple who love the sea, this the perfect day trip.

4. Which island has the best snorkeling directly off the beach?

• Mantaray Island and Castaway Island offer some of the most vibrant marine sanctuaries accessible right from the shore.
• Mana Island is unique because it has three different beach areas (North, South, and Sunset beaches), giving you multiple reef environments to explore in a single day.

5. Is lunch included in these Fiji island day trips?

Most day trip packages are inclusive, but the style of lunch varies:

• Included: South Sea Island (BBQ Buffet + Drinks), Castaway (2-course à la carte), Malolo (1 course à la carte), and Mana (Buffet).
• Additional Cost: At Malamala Beach Club, you pay for what you eat and drink from their à la carte menu, which features high-end Pacific-fusion cuisine. Highly recommend the BBQ skewers and fries.

6. Which island is the best for a “Classic Resort” experience?

If you want to spend the day at a world-renowned resort, Castaway Island and Malolo Island are the top choices. These islands offer a more traditional Fijian aesthetic with thatched-roof bures and lush tropical gardens. They feel more “secluded” and “boutique” than the larger Mana Island.

Get an eSim for data in Fiji

A comparison table of different Fiji Day trips