Stay with Locals in Taveuni
Offering unbeatable value and a real insight into Fijian village life, homestays on Taveuni should be experienced at least once during your stay on Fiji’s “Garden Island”. A few locals living in Tavenui and its off-shore islands have opened up their spare rooms to visitors to show them true Fijian hospitality. You need to set your expectations right, though, as accommodation is incredibly simple, electricity is only available at certain times, and cold showers are a given. However, the enriching experience more than makes up for it. Check out some of our top recommended homestays in the list below. And don’t forget your village etiquette!
While you’re here, you might also be interested in The Guide to Taveuni on a Budget and 10 Best Ways to Experience the Fijian Culture.
1. Amo & Tabua’s Homestay
Enjoy real Fijian hospitality at Amo & Tabua’s 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 if you wish. 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.
Check Amo & Tabua’s Homestay out:
- Amoreena’s listing on Airbnb – don’t forget to get your FREE FJ$50 Airbnb credit on us!
© Airbnb
2. 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.
Check Yanuca Island Homestay & Spearfishing out:
- Willy Beitaki’s listing on Airbnb – don’t forget to get your FREE FJ$50 Airbnb credit on us!
© Airbnb
3. QJ’s Explorer Home Stay
Nestled in tropical rainforest yet boasting ocean views, QJ’s Homestay provides an excellent escape from everyday life. Enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner with your host family (at an extra but affordable rate) or cook your own meals in the kitchen. While the Airbnb hosts are not always available, they’ll leave you in the capable hands of their in-laws who can recommend local activities – mostly at the nearby Tides Reach Resort, as well as organise village visits and a kava ceremony. The homestay sleeps three guests across two bedrooms.
Check QJ’s Homestay out:
- Qiolele & Losana’s listing on Airbnb – don’t forget to get your FREE FJ$50 Airbnb credit on us!
© 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 (2ha) 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 7 Best Budget Accommodation on Taveuni.
Check Bibi’s Homestay out:
© Bibi's Hideaway
5. Waitabu Marine Park
Finally, 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.
© Waitabu Marine ParkMore About Homestays in Taveuni
