5 Best Accommodations in the Lau Islands

1. Moana’s Guesthouse (Vanua Balavu)

Located on one of the easiest islands in the Lau Islands to get to, Vanua Balavu, which has a scheduled weekly flight from Suva, Moana’s Guesthouse makes a great base on the island. The stay at Moana’s Guesthouse includes authentic Fijian meals of fish and vegetables, while snacks can usually be purchased at the nearby (small) stores in Lomolomo Village about a 15-minute walk away. The accommodation features five simple beachfront bures (bungalows) equipped with mosquito nets and cold-water bathroom facilities. The accommodation can also organise a few activities for you, including village visits, guided hikes and short boat trips to the Bay of Islands and Raviravi Lagoon. Be sure to take your own snorkelling gear.

© Moana's Guesthouse

2. Vatuvara Private Islands (Kaibu Island)

This exclusive private island resort reserved for guests aged 16 and over is your only resort-style accommodation in the Lau Islands. Choose from three villas at Vatuvara Private Islands, each wrapped in luxury with elevated views, a private pool, a personal massage/yoga/spa bure and expansive decking. The villas have one bedroom with an extra-large king bed, lounge and indoor and outdoor showers. The kitchen is stocked with a selection of drinks, there’s WiFi and satellite TV. The stay is all-inclusive, from the return flights from Nadi to all guided tours and activities. The resort has a private golf course, two restaurants, a PADI dive centre and a myriad of walking trails. Find out more about this accommodation in The Luxury Guide to the Lau Islands.

© FijiPocketGuide.com

3. Lakeba Guest House / Jeke Qica’s Guesthouse (Lakeba Island)

Also known as Jeke Qica’s Guesthouse, Lakeba Guest House is your only formal accommodation option on Lakeba Island – another island in the Lau Group with a weekly flight. The guesthouse is located in the island’s main village, Tubou, and has one bure/unit and three private rooms with bathrooms. Stays at the guesthouse, which sits among an attractive coconut plantation, includes authentic Fijian meals and friendly Fijian hospitality.

© Lakeba Guest House

4. Homestays

If you’re looking for a more authentic Fijian experience, homestays are a fantastic option in the Lau Islands. These tend to be entire homes with toilet and bathroom facilities, offering a basic yet comfortable stay for visitors. You can expect to pay around FJ$120 per day, which typically includes three meals a day – a great value for your money! Booking a homestay is a breeze, thanks to the Lau Provincial Office. You’ll find them at the top of the multi-storey car park on Struan Street in Suva. They’ll happily make a booking for you, and the best part? There’s usually no waiting time.

Remember, while homestays are more basic than resorts, they make up for it with warmth, authenticity, and a chance to connect with local people. Plus, you’ll be supporting the local community directly. So why not give it a try on your next visit to the Lau Islands?

Make sure you come prepared with yaqona roots (kava) to present as a sevusevu to your host who may organise to present on your behalf to the village chief. Other housekeeping rules include being sure to wear modest clothing, such as a sulu. The Lau Provincial Office also asks visitors to not give alcoholic drinks to villagers. Find out more about these customs in Fiji Village Etiquette: What to Do When Visiting a Fijian Village.

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5. Yacht and Cargo Ship Accommodation

Finally, accommodation will be provided on charter yachts when cruising around the Lau Islands. For travellers, one of your best options is the charter yacht with Sailing Fiji departs from Taveuni sailing around the Lau Islands for private sailing tours. The yacht has four queen staterooms and luggage storage rooms. The experience includes meals and the use of non-motorised watersports equipment like snorkelling gear and paddleboards. Alternatively, QUIXOTIC‘s four guest staterooms and three ensuite bathrooms can accommodate up to six guests departing from Denarau. Again, you’ll be spoiled for choice with the abundance of toys on board! Finally, Safari Charters Fiji offers sailing packages on the yacht Stellar, a 2005 Sun Odyssey 49 Fast Cruiser. With four en-suite double cabins accommodating up to six passengers, they specialise in surf charters but also offer snorkelling, diving, and island cruising from Port Denarau. Learn more about sailing charters in the 10 Unique Boat Stays in Fiji: Cruises, Yacht Charters & Boat Hire.

Cargo boats departing from Suva also have four-bunk cabins onboard shared with other passengers, but most sleep on the deck under the stars. Find out more about sailing to the Lau Islands in the 5 Ways to Get to the Lau Islands.

© FijiPocketGuide.com