While Denarau Island often steals the spotlight, the Wailoaloa Beach area has quietly transformed into Fiji’s second most vibrant travel hub. Just 15 minutes from Nadi International Airport, this “black sand” beauty offers a laid-back social atmosphere.
Here are the top three resorts in Wailoaloa: Crowne Plaza, Wyndham Garden, and Club Fiji Resort.
1. Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay Resort & Spa
The Crowne Plaza Fiji is the crown jewel of Wailoaloa. If you are looking for that “big resort” energy with high-end finishes and endless activities, this is the place to be in 2026. Hands down the number one resort in Wailoaloa and for good reasons.
Why Families Love Crowne Plaza Fiji
- The Seven-Pool Paradise: The resort is designed around an aquatic playground. There is a dedicated family pool with a mini waterslide that keeps younger kids entertained for hours, while parents can enjoy the beachfront horizon-edge pools.
- The Kids’ Club: Their complimentary kids’ club is one of the most modern in Nadi, offering a daily program of cultural activities, games, and supervised fun.
- Room Options: For families, the Ground Floor Pool Access Suites are a must. You can literally step from your patio into a pool—a lifesaver for parents with toddlers who need a nap while the rest of the family swims.
Dining at Crowne Plaza Fiji
Don’t miss the Harvest Restaurant breakfast buffet. It features a cascading chocolate fountain (a kid favorite) and a massive spread of international and Fijian dishes. For a chic dinner, Urban Sugar Beach Club offers a swanky sunset vibe where Fijian warriors perform nightly fire-lighting rituals on the grass.
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2. Wyndham Garden Wailoaloa Beach Fiji
If you’re travelling as a family, Wyndham Garden offers the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and value.
Why Families Love Wyndham Garden Wailoaloa
- Location & Views: Situated right on the beachfront, every room feels like a tropical escape. It’s significantly quieter than the larger resorts, which is great for families who prefer a more tranquil retreat.
- Flexible Stays: Known for its friendly service and flexible check-in/out times, it’s the ideal spot for families arriving on late-night or early-morning flights.
- Entertainment: The resort features a lovely outdoor pool and even host karaoke sessions—a surprisingly fun way for families to bond after a day in the sun.
Dining at Wyndham Garden Wailoaloa
The on-site dining at Wyndham Garden is praised for its quality, particularly the fresh tropical fruits at the free daily breakfast. Being in the heart of the Wailoaloa “strip,” you are also just a 5-minute walk from Vasaqa Fiji, a local favorite for BBQ ribs and pulled pork that kids will love.
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3. Club Fiji Resort
For families who want to escape the “hotel” feel and experience a traditional Fijian village vibe, Club Fiji Resort is it. Also, Club Fiji Resort is one of the few budget-friendly resorts in Nadi that offers private beachfront bures.
Why Families Love Club Fiji Resort
- Traditional Bures: Instead of standard hotel rooms, you stay in thatched-roof bungalows (bures). The Family Beach Bures are interconnected, giving parents privacy while keeping the kids close.
- “Barefoot” Luxury: The resort has a distinct “shoes-off” policy. The sand runs right up to the restaurant and bar, so children can play in the sand while you enjoy a meal.
- Hammock Heaven: Every ocean-view bure comes with its own hammock—the ultimate spot for a family photo or an afternoon read.
Dining at Club Fiji Resort
The JB’s Restaurant at Club Fiji is famous for its wood-fired pizzas and casual beachfront dining. It’s affordable, unpretentious, and offers one of the best “feet in the sand” dining experiences in Nadi.
How to Get to Wailoaloa Beach
From Nadi International Airport (NAN):
Taxi: The easiest and fastest way. A taxi will take approximately 10–15 minutes and costs between $15–$25 FJD. There is a designated taxi rank right outside the arrivals hall.
Resort Shuttle: Many resorts, including Crowne Plaza and Wyndham Garden, offer airport pick-up services if booked in advance.
Driving: If you’ve rented a car, head south on Queens Road and turn right at the Wailoaloa Road junction (near the True Mart Supermarket).
From Port Denarau:
Taxi: If you are coming from an island resort, a taxi from the Port to Wailoaloa takes about 15–20 minutes and costs roughly $20–$30 FJD.
How much is the flight ticket?
FAQ
1. Is Wailoaloa Beach better than Denarau Island?
It depends on your vibe! Denarau is a manicured, luxury resort hub with high-end prices. Wailoaloa is more laid-back and “local,” offering better value for money, a vibrant social scene, and authentic sunset views. While Denarau feels like a private enclave, Wailoaloa feels like the heart of Nadi.
2. Can you swim at Wailoaloa Beach?
Yes, you can swim at Wailoaloa, though the sand is volcanic (grey/brown) rather than sparkling white. The water is calm and safe, making it popular for morning swims, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking.
3. How far is Wailoaloa from Nadi International Airport?
Wailoaloa is incredibly convenient for transit. It is only 10-15 minute drive (approx. 6 km) from the airport. Many resorts like the Crowne Plaza or Club Fiji can arrange shuttles for a small fee.
4. Is Wailoaloa safe for solo travellers?
Absolutely. Wailoaloa is one of the most social areas in Fiji. With a high density of hostels and resorts like Wyndham Garden, it is very easy to meet other travellers. As with anywhere, just be mindful of your belongings when on the beach at night.
5. Are there good places to eat outside of the resorts?
Yes! Wailoaloa has a growing culinary scene. You can find everything from high-end Italian at Sentai Seafood to casual beach bites at Ghost Ship Bar & Grill. Most restaurants are within walking distance along the main beach road.
6. How do I get to Port Denarau from Wailoaloa for island tours?
Most day-trip operators (like those going to Malamala or the Mamanucas) offer complimentary coach pickups from Wailoaloa resorts. Alternatively, a taxi to Port Denarau takes about 15–20 minutes and costs roughly $25 FJD.
7. Does Wailoaloa have a nightlife scene?
Wailoaloa is the “social hub” of Nadi. By evening, many beach bars feature live fire dancing, local bands, and happy hour specials. It is livelier than the quiet resorts of the Coral Coast but more relaxed than a city club.
8. Which resort is best for a quick layover?
If you have a short stay, the Crowne Plaza Fiji Nadi Bay or Wyndham Garden are excellent choices. They offer high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms, and are close enough to the airport that you won’t have to worry about missing your flight.
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