6 Best Homestays on Taveuni

1. Garden Island Homestay

Enjoy real Fijian hospitality at Garden Island Homestay. Boasting glorious reviews on Airbnb and a price that’s crazy cheap, this homestay provides simple accommodation but memorable experiences. Based in Naqara town, the homestay makes an excellent base for visiting Taveuni’s west coast attractions (find out more in our 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do on Taveuni), but do take the family up on their offer to take you out to Qamea Island. Breakfast is included in the stay, while affordable lunches and dinners can also be prepared. What’s more, Amo runs a little coffee shop off her front porch should you want some extra treats. We could go on, but it’s just best to go see it for yourself. The homestay sleeps up to three people in one bedroom.

© Airbnb

2. Tuvununu Lodge

Tuvununu Lodge offers a charming homestay/backpacker-style accommodation with six bedrooms and six bathrooms. This lovely local-run establishment is nestled in Naselesele on the east coast of Taveuni, conveniently situated between major attractions like Bouma National Park and the Lavena Coastal Walk. While their online presence is limited, it’s best to contact them directly for bookings and information. We had the pleasure of meeting the friendly owners during our last trip to Taveuni and can vouch for their warm hospitality. If you’re looking for an authentic Fijian experience in a prime location, Tuvununu Lodge is definitely worth considering!

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3. Yanuca Island Homestay & Spearfishing

On Yanuca Island, just off the shores of Taveuni, this Airbnb homestay gets you immersed in the life of a small Fijian fishing village of around 100 people. Enjoy meals with your hosts throughout your stay and treat yourself to something special with the family, such as a fishing trip or an island excursion (at an extra cost). There are lots happening in the village that you can join in with such as drinking kava, snorkelling or a private island camping experience organised by your host. While you won’t be staying in the same home as your host family, you’ll get your own private home with one bedroom sleeping up to two people and a bathroom.

© Airbnb

4. Bibi’s Hideaway

While Bibi’s Hideaway might be well-known for its affordable “Honeymoon Bure” and “Family Bure”, there’s also the option to do a homestay with the family who runs the accommodation. Located along the coastal road near Matei, Bibi’s Hideaway homestay has you staying with Paulina Bibi on 5 acres (2 ha) of tropical gardens. You’re free to help yourself to the array of fruit growing across the grounds, as well as pop into town to pick up supplies to cook in the kitchen. The homestay sleeps up to two people in one bedroom (there is a single occupancy rate too). See more accommodation like this in the 10 Best Budget Accommodations on Taveuni.

Check Bibi’s Homestay out:

• Bibi’s Homestay on Trip.com

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5. Waitabu Marine Park

Another homestay or village stay option lies at the Waitabu Marine Park. Located in the northern reaches of the Bouma National Heritage Park, Waitabu Marine Park is a protected area for marine life. While Waitabu Visitor Centre’s snorkelling and cultural tours are highly publicised, their campground and homestay options are lesser-known. Either stay in the campground in a tent site or hire a tent, where you will interact with the village but have your own space, or opt for a homestay with one of the villagers. Both options need to be booked in advance, so inquire with the visitor centre on 6798201999.

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6. Lavena Lodge

While Lavena Lodge is not technically a homestay, it is run by the local community in the heart of Lavena village. For those wanting to explore the beautiful Bouma National Heritage Park, Lavena Lodge has you staying right in the heart of it! Choose from either basic private rooms or a bed in a dorm with shared bathroom facilities. The lodge is worth staying to experience living among a Fijian community and to make an early start on the Lavena Coastal Walk the next morning. There are kitchen facilities available, otherwise, meals prepared by villagers can be organised at reception for a great price. Find out more about the activities in the national park in the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do on Taveuni.

© FijiPocketGuide.com