Located a mere 20 minutes from Nadi International Airport, Denarau offers a convenient family getaway where on the way you’ll pass by supermarkets and clothes shops before checking-in in case you forgot to pack something. Each resort on this island offers the famous Fijian hospitality, but they each have a distinct “personality.” You’ll see why they are the best child friendly resorts in Fiji.
1. Radisson Blu Resort Fiji
The Radisson Blu is designed around a series of cascading lagoon pools that serve as the heartbeat of the property by the looks of the gigantic lagoon pool with water slides for the kids and pool bar for the adults.
Amenities & Family Perks at Radisson Blu
The Radisson Blu swimming pools features four climate-controlled lagoon pools, ensuring the water is comfortable year-round, regardless of the season.
- The Famous Tunnel Slide: This is the highlight of the resort. A white-water tunnel slide that keeps children (and adventurous adults) entertained for hours on end.
- Blu Bananas Kids Club: This isn’t just a room with toys. The Blu Bananas program focuses on active play and cultural immersion, including traditional Fijian games, coconut husking, and evening torch-lighting ceremonies.
- On-Site Fiji Airways Check-in: This is a game-changer for international travelers. You can check your bags and receive your boarding passes right at the resort, allowing you to spend your final day at the pool rather than waiting in airport lines.
- Harmony Retreat Day Spa: While the kids are at the slide, parents can retreat to this award-winning spa for a traditional Bobo massage in a tranquil garden setting.
Dining at Raddison Blu
The Radisson Blu offers some of the most diverse and highly-rated dining on the island on top being arguably the best resort for kids in Fiji.
- Blu Bar & Grill: The main hub for the resort’s famous buffet breakfast and casual beachside lunches.
- Chime Bar: The perfect spot for evening entertainment, offering tropical cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Byblos: An exquisite Lebanese restaurant that provides a sophisticated alternative to standard resort food, focusing on fresh mezze and grilled meats.
- Teppanyaki at Chime: An interactive dining experience where chefs perform culinary tricks—a massive hit with children.
Money Exchange at Raddison Blu
Denarau Island also hosts Ports Denarau Marina for island excursions so it’s good that you know where to get extra money for the unplanned but amazing time on the picturesque islands.
- Currency Exchange: Full exchange services are available at the front desk 24/7.
- ATM: A Westpac ATM is located in the lobby for easy cash withdrawals.
- Payment: The resort operates on a “charge to room” basis, so you only need to settle your bill once via credit card at the end of your stay.
Explore Day Trips While Staying at Denarau Island
2. Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa
Sofitel Fiji has got to be one if not the most stylish resort on Denarau Island. It successfully blends “French Chic” with “Fijian Soul.” It is the ideal choice for families who want a high-end, luxury aesthetic without sacrificing the fun and amenities that keep children happy. It’s part go the IHG hotels if you’d like to redeem your points.
Amenities & Family Perks at Sofitel Fiji
The Sofitel boasts the largest lagoon-style pool on Denarau, but its true strength lies in its specialized zones for different age groups.
- Niu Kids Beach Club: This is arguably the most impressive kids’ club on the island. It features a splash and play area, climbing walls, a trampoline, and even a beachside zip-line.
- Teen Zone: Recognizing that teenagers need their own space, the Sofitel provides a dedicated area equipped with the latest gaming consoles and social spaces for older kids to connect.
- Waitui Beach Club: An exclusive adults-only sanctuary. If you have a nanny looking after the kids, this is the place to go for private cabanas, a dedicated pool, and evening cocktails.
- Cultural Entertainment: The resort hosts daily cultural performances, including fire dancing and traditional singing that resonates through the open-air lobby.
Dining at Sofitel Fiji
The Sofitel’s dining venues are modern, beautifully designed, and flavor-forward:
- Bazaar Kitchen & Bar: A massive interactive dining space featuring seven live-cooking stations, ranging from fresh seafood to authentic Indian curries.
- Solis: The resort’s signature seafood restaurant, offering a “toes-in-the-sand” dining experience with high-end Mediterranean influences.
- Suka: A vibrant beach rum bar where parents can sample infused rums while the kids play nearby on the sand.
- La Parisienne: A French-style café serving the best coffee and pastries on the island—perfect for a quick morning bite.
Money Exchange
- Currency Exchange: Available at the reception desk for all major international currencies.
- ATM: An ANZ ATM is conveniently located within the resort’s shopping arcade.
- Location: The Sofitel is centrally located, making it a very short walk or Bula Bus ride to the Denarau Marina for island day trips or to supermarket and variety shops.
Sofitel Fiji Room
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3. Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort
The Sheraton Fiji is often considered the social hub of Denarau, offering a “village” atmosphere that makes it incredibly easy for families to meet others and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Amenities & Family Perks at Sheraton Fiji
- Side by Side Family Program: This program is designed to bring families together through shared experiences, such as “Farm to Spoon” gardening tours and community-based cultural visits.
- Denarau Golf & Racquet Club: Located directly across the street, guests enjoy easy access to the island’s premier 18-hole golf course and ten tennis courts.
- Water Sports: The resort has a dedicated hub for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and motorized water sports.
Dining at Sheraton Fiji
Something for everyone at Sheraton Fiji.
- Tatavu Grill & Bar: A stunning open-fire dining experience on the beach, focusing on premium meats and fresh local seafood. Has international cuisine. Opens 11am-12am.
- Island 619: A massive buffet-style restaurant with multiple live-cooking stations that showcase the diverse flavors of Fiji. It has multiple cuisine. Opens 6:30-10pm with temporary closures at 11am-1pm, 3pm-6pm.
- 28g: A specialized coffee bar in the lobby that serves as the perfect morning meeting spot for a high-quality brew. It’s a deli. Opens 6am-9pm.
Money Exchange
- Currency Exchange: Full exchange services are provided at the lobby desk.
- ATM: Multiple ATMs are available within the Sheraton and Westin complex.
- Check-in Perks: Like the Radisson, the Sheraton often provides Fiji Airways check-in services directly in the lobby.
Room at Sheraton Fiji
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4. Hilton Fiji Beach Resort and Spa
The Hilton is spread across 1.5 kilometers of private beachfront. It feels more residential and tranquil than its neighbors. For families who prefer a “home-away-from-home” vibe where they can spread out and enjoy the view in peace, the Hilton is at the top of the list. It’s giving Gold Coast (Australia) vibes.
Amenities & Family Perks at Hilton Fiji
The sprawling nature of the Hilton means you never feel crowded, even during peak school holiday periods.
- Seven Swimming Pools: The resort features a series of interconnected pools. Some are specifically designed for high-energy family play, while others are tucked away for quiet relaxation.
- Ika Kids Club: A bright, airy space where children can engage in “edu-tainment,” learning about Fijian culture through crafts, dance, and outdoor exploration.
- Koro Adults-Only Complex: A dedicated area for adults to enjoy a quiet breakfast, a private pool, and a sophisticated bar away from the main family zones.
- The Deli: An on-site gourmet market where you can stock up on high-quality snacks, wines, and essentials—ideal for families who like to have their own snacks on hand.
Dining at Hilton Fiji
The Hilton’s dining is focused on fresh ingredients and spectacular views:
- Nuku: The primary restaurant for international dining, offering a wide array of options that cater to even the pickiest of eaters.
- Maravu: An award-winning Asian-fusion restaurant. It is widely considered one of the best spots on the island to watch the sunset while enjoying world-class cuisine.
- Beachside BBQs: Because many of the accommodations feature outdoor grills, the Hilton offers BBQ packs that allow families to enjoy a private cookout on their own terrace.
Money Exchange
- Currency Exchange: Available at the main reception.
- ATM: A BSP (Bank of South Pacific) ATM is located on-site.
- Internal Transport: Since the resort is so long, the Hilton provides a frequent golf-cart shuttle service to whisk you from your room to the restaurants or the lobby.
Room at Hilton Fiji
Travel Tips on Denarau Island
Navigating Money on the Island
- Cash vs. Card: Denarau is largely a “cashless” environment. All resorts prefer you to charge your meals, spa treatments, and activities to your room. You then settle the bill at the end of your stay.
- Surcharges: Be aware that most resorts in Fiji apply a 2% to 3% surcharge on credit card transactions.
- Exchanging Money: While the resorts offer currency exchange, the rates at Port Denarau Marina or Nadi Airport are usually slightly more favorable. If you plan on visiting the mainland or local markets, it is wise to have some Fijian Dollars (FJD) in small denominations for tips and small purchases.
The Bula Bus: Your Island Transport
You don’t need a car on Denarau. The Bula Bus is an open-air shuttle that runs a continuous loop between all the resorts and the Marina.
- Cost: You can purchase a 1-day or multi-day pass (approx. $30 FJD for a week). It’s an easy, breezy way for the family to get around, and kids absolutely love the open-air ride. Tickets can be bought at Sofitel or ask your receptionist.
Port Denarau Marina
The Marina is just a 5-10 minute ride from any of these resorts. It is the hub for all island-hopping excursions, but it also contains:
- Yee’s Supermarket: Great for snacks, milk, and essentials.
- Pharmacies: For any sunscreen or medical needs.
- Affordable Dining: If you want a break from resort prices, the Marina has everything from Hard Rock Cafe to local bakeries and pizza places.
- Apparel: If you forgot to pack your undies, bikini or honeymoon dress, there are variety of shops available. Note: your size availability isn’t guaranteed so do double check your luggage before leaving home.
FAQ
1. Which Denarau resort has the best pool for kids?
While all four have impressive lagoon pools, Radisson Blu Resort Fiji is widely considered the winner for kids because it features the island’s only whitewater tunnel slide. If your children prefer a “beach entry” style pool where they can play in the sand while staying in the water, the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort is a fantastic alternative.
2. Which hotel is best for larger families needing more space?
The Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa and Radisson Blu are the top choices for large families.
- Hilton: Offers 1, 2, and 3-bedroom residences that include kitchenettes and laundry facilities.
- Radisson Blu: Their 1 and 2-bedroom suites feature full kitchens and separate living areas, making it easy to manage meal times and naps.
3. Which resort has the best Kids’ Club?
Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa recently renovated its Niu Kids Beach Club, which is arguably the most modern on the island. It features a splash zone, climbing walls, and a trampoline. Radisson Blu’s “Blu Banana” club is also a perennial favorite, famous for its cultural activities like torch-lighting ceremonies and Fijian language lessons.
4. Is there an “Adults-Only” escape for parents at these family resorts?
Yes! All four resorts understand that parents need a break too:
- Sofitel: Home to the famous Waitui Beach Club, a high-end adults-only sanctuary.
- Hilton: Features the Koro pool, a dedicated space for adults to eat and relax away from the main family areas.
- Radisson & Sheraton: Both offer dedicated adults-only pools and quiet zones.
5. Which resort is closest to Port Denarau (for dining and island day trips)?
The Radisson Blu and Sheraton Fiji are centrally located and a very short Bula Bus ride (or a 15-minute walk) to the Marina. The Hilton is located at the far end of the island; while it offers more privacy and the longest stretch of beach, you will likely rely more on the Bula Bus or resort shuttles to get to the Port.
6. Do “Kids Eat Free” at these Denarau resorts?
Policies vary by season and booking type, but generally:
- Radisson Blu: Offers a “Kids Eat Free” program for children under 12 when dining with a paying adult (check specific meal plan details).
- Sheraton: Frequently offers “Side by Side” family packages where kids under 12 eat for free from the kids’ menu.
- Hilton: Children under 10 often dine for free when accompanied by an adult.
