The Islands of Fiji
The Islands of Fiji are a group of islands situated between the Tropic of Capricorn and the equator, roughly 3,168 miles southwest of Hawaii and 1,960 miles northeast of Australia. The islands form something of a horseshoe shape in the ocean, and the tropical setting is spectacular. Volcanoes, reefs, atolls, islands, rocks, tropical rainforests, mountains, waterfalls, rivers, and streams are just some of the extraordinary geological elements of Fiji. There are over 300 islands total, although only 106 of the islands are inhabited, leaving many uninhabited. Those that are inhabited have been broken down into groups.
Viti Levu
Viti Levu is the largest island in Fiji serving as the center of the country. Approximately 70% of te Fijian population live on this island and three of Fiji’s major cities are located there as well. Suva, Fiji’s capital, Nadi, and Lautoka are all on Viti Levu. The island also is the location of the country’s main airport.
Vanua Levu
Fiji’s second largest island is called Vanua Levu or Big Land. This island is actually only about half the size of Viti Levu but it is still home to some of Fiji’s most beautiful natural sites, home to some of the best snorkeling and diving in the islands according to many.
Vanua Levu
The third largest island in Fiji is Taveuni, also known as the Garden Island of Fiji. This island earned its name by being home to superbly rich soil and plentiful vegetation.
Kadavu Group
This group of islands consists of the island of Kadavu and several smaller islands. It, too, is known for its lush vegetation and native birds inhabited the tropical rainforests found there.
Lomaiviti Group
The Lomaiviti Group, east of Viti Levu, is made up of seven primary islands, including Ovalau which is where the first European settlers stayed in Fiji. These islands tend to be a bit more rugged than others.
Smaller Groups
The Yasawa Group is a very long chain of twenty islands including volcanoes, unique aqua-blue lagoons, and white beaches. The Moala Group is a group of tiny islands that are volcanic in nature. The Lau islands serve as prime limestone isle examples. Lastly, Rotuma is a remote volcanic island made up of a remarkable landscape of unique rock formations.
Mamanuca Group
The Mamanuca islands, made up of 20 smaller islands, are the main tourist destination. This is due to the stunning scenery, romantic views, and astonishing reef-fringed beaches. The islands are also home to many native species of birds, reptiles, and plants, making nature watches and explorations excellent.
Malolo Lailai is the hub of the tourist industry in the Mamanuca islands, but all of the island resorts located in this group are exactly what a tropical holiday paradise should be. Each is unique but they all provide a respite from the speed and rush of everyday life. Every activity, amenity, or accommodation that you could imagine can be found in the Mamanuca islands.
Some of the most well known resorts here are Beachcomber Island, Bounty Island, Malolo Island, Mana Island, Treasure Island, and Castaway Island. In fact, the 2000 film “Cast Away” was filmed, in part, on Monuriki, on of Mamanuca’s islands. The Mamanuca islands have been developed over the years as the ideal honeymoon, wedding, and adventure getaway while still retaining the unique cultural and natural beauty of the islands.
