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Booking Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort | Taveuni Island Stay Comparison (2027 Guide)
Read our Taveuni Island stay comparison: Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs. Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort and other Taveuni accommodation. Compare beachfront bures, amenities, and resort dining to find the best place to stay on Taveuni, Fiji for your scuba diving trip to Fiji, Fiji honeymoon or Fiji family holiday.
Taveuni is known as the “Garden Island of Fiji” because of the lush vegetation growing from the rich volcanic ashes. This draws eco-tourists but also experienced scuba divers and snorkellers.
The best method to reach Taveuni is to book a flight to Matei Airport below from Nadi or Suva. Note due to domestic flight schedules you may have to stay in a Nadi transit hotel to catch the earliest flight of the day. One hour of transit is not enough time at Nadi Airport.
Accommodations in Matei is focused on high-end accommodation, scuba diving and eco-tourism. There are no day trips to outer islands like Denarau Island resorts such as Sheraton and Tribe Na Tomba.
For adventure seekers wanting to do island hopping, there’s a daily 7am trip from Taveuni to Savusavu Town going from Taveuni by a small boat to Buca Bay then onto a bus to Savusavu on the same ticket operated by Sun City Ferry based in Taveuni. In Savusavu, I would recommend Naveria Heights Lodge for budget travellers, Daku Resort for mid-budget and Savasi Island Resort for millionaires.
Though Taveuni is relatively more expensive to stay, it is THE base for diving in Rainbow Reef so let’s compare the cheapest well-rounded resort in Matei: Maravu Taveuni Lodge and the cheapest beachfront resort in Matei: Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort. Find out which is perfect for you.
Best Small Taveuni Beachfront Resort is Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort
Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort is the top pick for travellers who want beachfront accommodation and direct sand and sea access with top notch dining. Other Taveuni resorts in Matei are usually perched on a hilltop. Among Taveuni stays with beaches, Coconut Grove is the best.
Best Resort for Backpackers & Budget Travellers is Maravu Taveuni Lodge
Maravu Taveuni Lodge is a budget-friendly choice in Matei for social travelers, solo explorers, and group trips. Their range of stays spans from affordable dorms to spacious ocean-view bures located across a lush plantation.
With an open-air Jungle Bar, poolside loungers, and evening kava sessions, it has a vibrant community atmosphere where meeting other travellers comes naturally compared to Coconut Grove which focuses more on privacy and therefore perfect for honeymooners.
👉 A stay at Maravu Taveuni Lodge can be booked via Agoda, Expedia, Klook, Booking.com, Trip.com, Hotels.com and Hostelworld.com
Best Overall Resort for Divers & Nature Lovers is Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort
Coconut Grove is the #1 rated house reef right off its beach, guests can kayak or snorkel directly from their cottage.
It is also the closest resort to Bouma National Heritage Park (Tavoro Waterfalls) and the Lavena Coastal Walk, while providing seamless access to daily dive charters out to the world-famous Rainbow Reef and Great White Wall.
👉 Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort can be booked directly on Agoda, Expedia, Klook, Booking.com, Trip.com andHotels.com. Did you know flights be be booked on Agoda?
Best Resort for Airport Convenience is a Tie
Situated right across from Matei Airport (TVU), light travellers can literally walk from the airstrip to reception in minutes to both Coconut Grove Resort and Maravu Taveuni Lodge.
My Stay at Maravu Taveuni Lodge
| What I Loved (Pros) | Things to Keep in Mind (Cons) |
|---|---|
| I loved the lush jungle hillside plantation overlooking the Somosomo Strait. The natural scenery was surreal. | Somethings there was no power during certain hours. It’s fine as long as you recharge before the cut-off time. |
| Laid-back and spacious eco-lodge living. This felt light and day compared to my stay at Radisson Denarau. | The rooms look a bit run-down but for the price in the Matei area it’s worth it. |
| Very relaxing massage with a nice ocean breeze as Maravu Lodge is on a hilltop. |
1) All About Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort
Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort is a boutique resort in Matei, Taveuni serviced by the Matei Airport. By boutique I mean there are only 4 cottages available so it’s better to book very early.
Amenities at Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort
The resort centers around easy ocean access and tranquil beach relaxation. Guests can grab complimentary kayaks and snorkeling gear to explore the #1 house reef right out front.
On-site massage treatments and peaceful beachfront loungers are available. The water is very calm at Coconut Grove so the beach is kid friendly.
Things to do near Coconut Grove Beachfront
Visit Bouma Waterfalls, boat tour of the Lavena Waterfalls and Coastal Walk Tour. Go down to the Southern side of the island to the Waitavala natural slide, the International Dateline and natural blowholes. TIP: when going down you can visit Aroha Beachfront Bures, a resort at Wairiki where you can enjoy wood-fired pizza with cold local beer for lunch. Aroha Beachfront also serves vegetarian dishes.
Dining at Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort
The open-air oceanfront restaurant serves local Fijian dishes incorporating fresh seafood, island-grown organic fruits and vegetables, homemade pastas, and rich curries all paired with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and fresh ocean breeze. Bone apple tea!
Getting to and from Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort
Coconut Grove is located along Matei Road, just a short 3-to-5-minute drive from Matei Airport (TVU). Local taxis are available waiting at the airport.
Check-In Time: 2:00 PM
Check-Out Time: 10:00 AM
Coconut Grove Contact Details
You can contact Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort by phone at +679 888 0328 or by email at info@coconutgrovefiji.com. The resort is located at 9 Matei Road, Taveuni, Fiji.
2) All About Maravu Taveuni Lodge
Maravu Taveuni Lodge is a Fiji eco-lodge resort on a plantation overlooking the Somosomo Strait. The accommodations feature high ceilings, timber floors, and traditional island decor designed like a traditional Fijian village.
Amenities at Maravu Taveuni Lodge
Maravu features a central outdoor swimming pool surrounded by gardens, an open-plan deck, a book exchange, 24-hour free Wi-Fi, and guest laundry services ($4 FJD/kg). Note that to manage island energy, power runs on scheduled generator downtime during off-peak midday hours (typically 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM).
Dining at Maravu Taveuni Lodge
The open-air restaurant and Jungle Bar serve as the heart of the lodge. Guests can enjoy breakfast (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM), lunch, dinner, and an All-Day Menu. The bar serves fresh banana smoothies, cold local beers, and cocktails, with evening kava gatherings.
Getting to and from Maravu Taveuni Lodge
Maravu Taveuni Lodge is located directly opposite Matei Airport (TVU). Transit time by car takes under 2 minutes, or guests carrying light luggage can take a brief walk from the airfield.
Check-In Time: 2:00 PM
Check-Out Time: 10:00 AM
Maravu Taveuni Lodge Contact Details
You can contact Maravu Lodge by phone at +679 888 0555. The resort is located at Main Coast Road, Matei, Taveuni, Fiji.
Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs Taveuni Palms Resort
Maravu Taveuni Lodge is best suited for budget-conscious travelers, solo backpackers, and social groups looking for an affordable eco-lodge in Taveuni.
On the other hand, Taveuni Palms Resort is built for high-end luxury seekers, honeymooners, and luxury families who want absolute privacy in ultra-exclusive beachfront villas with complete with a personal chef, private staff, infinity pool, and a 5-star service. Taveuni Palms Resort is the best resort on Taveuni Island.
Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs Taveuni Island Resort
Taveuni Island Resort & Spa is suited for luxury travellers, honeymooners, and high-end couples wanting a 5-star experience situated on a hilltop.
The bures here are spacious with private plunge pools with sweeping views over the Somosomo Strait. Just imagine the sunset views OMG! Taveuni Island Resort is also in Matei and is a bit more expensive than Maravu Lodge but worth it.
Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs Aroha Beachfront Bures
Aroha Beachfront Bures caters to mid-range couples, families looking for beachfront relaxation and quietness.
The resort has spacious beachfront bures with fully equipped kitchens, a private seaside swimming pool, and direct, step-out access to the water.
Really, I would split my stay 3 nights in Maravu Lodge then 3 nights at Aroha Beachfront to experience hilltop and oceanfront living. Aroha is located in the middle of Taveuni along the Coastal Road whereas Maravu is right on the North of the island where the airport is.
Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs Taveuni Dive Resort
Taveuni Dive Resort is built specifically for dedicated scuba divers, active adventurers, and marine enthusiasts looking for a purpose-built diving haven in Taveuni going diving in Rainbow Reef and the Great Wall.
Taveuni Dive Resort has comfortable eco-bures, an on-site PADI dive center with custom dive boats, an ocean-view pool, and direct access to the world-famous Rainbow Reef. Travellers wanting to scuba dive in Taveuni, this resort is the best for you as it’s more affordable and closer to the airport than the Taveuni resort below. Maravu Lodge in comparison doesn’t have an on-site PADI.
Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs Paradise Taveuni Resort
Paradise Taveuni Resort is a resort accommodation on Taveuni catered to scuba divers, and couples seeking a remote resort with the option of a PADI 5-star dive operation.
There are private oceanfront bures with outdoor showers, a rock pool, and direct access to both Vuna Reef and the Rainbow Reef. Paradise Taveuni Resort is the closest well-rounded resort to Vuna Reef and since this resort is on the Southern part of Taveuni getting there will take almost an hour by car. If you’re susceptible to motion sickness, consider Maravu Lodge.
Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs Garden Island Resort
Garden Island Resort is tailored specifically for dedicated scuba divers and travellers seeking a full-service waterfront hotel experience on the central side of the island (Waiyevo).
Garden Island Resort featuring an on-site PADI dive shop, ocean-front rooms with 24-hour power (unlike Maravu Lodge) and modern amenities, a swimming pool, and direct access to dive boats heading out to the Rainbow Reef. For the amenities, the price is very reasonable.
There’s a Fijian cuisine restaurant and shops next door. I walked in for seafood pizza in the evening and it was nothing to complain about. Garden Island Resort is the best resort for group travellers doing scuba diving in Taveuni and is the closest to the main Taveuni Hospital so if you do get an infection or issues during scuba diving, it’s comforting to know that the hospital is just a minute away.
Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs Nakia Resort & Dive
Nakia Resort & Dive, just like Maravu Lodge caters is an eco-resort catered to nature lovers and families. Nakia Resort however has an edge in that it’s an eco-resort with a dive focus. The resort is situated across 10 acres of tropical gardens on a central hillside overlooking the Somosomo Strait. The resort has air-conditioned bures (including multi-bedroom villas), a swimming pool, and easy access to diving via local operators.
Maravu Taveuni Lodge vs Makaira Resort
The main selling point for Makaira Resort is that it has a homely feel with vast ocean views. It has just a handful of self-contained ocean-view bures and villas with full kitchenettes and plunge pool.
6-Day Travel Itinerary on Taveuni Island
Day 1: Check in and enjoy a fresh meal or smoothie, head to the pool, and watch the sunset over the Somosomo Strait.
Day 2: Head out for a world-class scuba diving or snorkelling day trip to the Rainbow Reef and the Great White Wall.
Day 3: Visit Bouma Tavoro Waterfalls and feel the power of the downpour. There are toilets and changing rooms available for guests. Tourists pay $50FJD to enter.
Day 4: Take the Boat Tour or do the Lavena Coastal Walk, following a scenic coastal trail past black sand beaches and ending at a waterfall swimming hole.
Day 5: Experience local culture. Visit the 180th Meridian (where yesterday meets today) at Waiyevo, Taveuni.
Day 6: Enjoy a slow morning with coffee, take one last swim off the beach or in the pool, and head to Matei Airport for your departure flight.
Doing split travel? Travel to Wailoaloa, stay at Beachcomber Island in Mamanuca, backpack at Blue Lagoon Resort in Yasawa, visit the capital city of Suva, stay at Savasi Island Resort or the beautiful Koro Sun Resort in Savusavu after Taveuni.
To travel from Taveuni to Savusavu, take the Sun City Ferry in Taveuni then onto their bus that takes you straight to Savusavu Town on the same ticket. It departs Waiyevo Jetty at 7am nearly everyday so be sure to be early. The ticket price includes ferry and bus ride. The travel time from Taveuni to Buca Bay is about an hour and a half, then upon landing hop on the bus for another hour to reach Savusavu Town Market Bus Stand. There are many resorts and budget stays in Savusavu. You can take a plane from Savusavu Airport back to Nadi.
FAQ: Staying in Matei, Taveuni
1. Which resort is better for an intimate wedding or vow renewal?
Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort is by far the superior choice for weddings, elopements, and vow renewal ceremonies. Coconut Grove offers specialized wedding and vow renewal packages, a quiet romantic atmosphere,beachfront cottages, and fine oceanfront dining. In contrast, Maravu Taveuni Lodge caters primarily to casual eco-explorers and budget group travelers.
2. How do I get from Nadi International Airport to Matei, Taveuni?
To reach Taveuni from mainland Fiji (Viti Levu), you will take a short 45-to-60-minute domestic flight from Nadi International Airport (NAN) directly to Matei Airport (TVU) on Fiji Airways (Fiji Link). Once you land in Matei,Maravu Lodge is right across the road, while Coconut Grove Resort is a 3-to-5-minute drive down the coastal road.
3. Does Maravu Taveuni Lodge have electricity 24 hours a day?
Maravu Lodge operates on island generator power and routinely schedules daily generator downtime during off-peak midday hours (typically between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM). During these hours, air conditioning, wall outlets, and ceiling fans will not be active. Coconut Grove Beachfront Resort, however, provides continuous 24-hour power and air conditioning to its guest cottages.
4. Can non-guests dine at the Coconut Grove restaurant?
Yes, non-resort guests are welcome to dine at the Coconut Grove restaurant.
5. Which resort is closer to the Rainbow Reef dive sites?
Both properties are located in Matei and utilize local dive operators to access the famous Rainbow Reef and the Great White Wall (roughly 15 to 20 minutes by boat). However, Coconut Grove holds an edge for snorkelers as it features Taveuni’s #1 rated house reef right off its beach, allowing guests to kayak or walk into the water without booking a boat trip.
6. Are these resorts suitable for families travelling with young children?
Maravu Lodge is great for families with older kids or teenagers who want affordable multi-bedroom bures, a swimming pool, and a casual environment whereas Coconut Grove welcomes families but is better suited for parents traveling with mature children or couples seeking peace, given its low room count and quiet beachfront environment.
