What is a Fijian Bobo Massage + 10 Spas You Must Try

Last Updated: 19 June, 2025

What is and Where to Get a Fijian Bobo Massage

Know anything about spas in Fiji? The first thing you will hear is how utterly relaxing they are (and how the treatments always seem to pass by way too quickly). The next thing you’re likely to hear about is the famous Fijian Bobo Massage.

Fijians have been using massage treatments for centuries, well before other cultures arrived on the Fiji islands. During this time, they have developed effective massages to improve circulation, rejuvenate the skin and give the client an all-around “glow”.

The most common of which is the bobo massage. Because this Fijian massage is a must-try for anyone looking for some serious R&R in Fiji, we’ve put together this quick list of places to try the Fijian bobo massage in Fiji.

Before we delve into this guide to the Fijian bobo massage, be sure to bookmark The Guide to the Fiji Culture for Travellers to learn more about the culture.

What is a Fijian Bobo Massage?

The Fijian Bobo massage is a traditional healing practice deeply rooted in Fijian culture. This ancient technique has been lovingly passed down through generations, playing a crucial role in community rituals and aiding recovery during childbirth and illness.

Today, you’ll find that Bobo has evolved to incorporate contemporary wellness practices, offering a unique deep-tissue massage experience. Here’s what you can expect from this rejuvenating treatment:

Technique: Skilled practitioners use various parts of their hands and arms to apply a series of strokes, including pressing, chopping, cupping and sweeping.
Pressure: The massage therapist will adjust the pressure to suit your comfort level and needs.
Natural oils: Coconut oil, sometimes infused with local herbs, is used to enhance the massage’s application and therapeutic benefits.
Rare foot technique: In some traditional Fijian villages, you might encounter a unique foot-based bobo massage (trust us, it’s more relaxing than it sounds!).

Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day of island exploration or seeking relief from muscle tension, a Fijian Bobo massage is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and revitalised.

What is a Fijian Bobo Massage + 10 Spas You Must Try

1. CHI, The Spa – Shangri-la Fijian Resort & Spa

Situated on Yanuca Island, just off the stunning Coral Coast of Viti Levu, CHI, The Spa at the Shangri-la Fijian Resort & Spa boasts its Bobo Massage at the top of the menu.

Their Bobo Massage, which lasts for about 1 hr 15 mins, is blended with rich exotic oils including the Fijian medicinal herbs of Makita and Macou. This massage is not the only Fijian massage on offer, with the Fijian Shell Massage and Fijian Soothing Wrap to try.

Compare this spa to others in the area in the 10 Best Day Spas on the Coral Coast.

Location: Shangri-La Resort, Yanuca Island, Coral Coast, Viti Levu. Signposted along the Queens Road near Cuvu.

2. Lomana Spa & Wellness Centre – Nanuku Resort

Keeping things authentically Fijian, the Lomana Spa & Wellness Centre at the Nanuku Resort provides exceptional Bobo Massages.

Every aspect of the experience is designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation from the moment the therapist gives you a cool towel infused with the scent of mint to the final stroke of the fingertips.

After the treatment, you’ll understand why these holistic healing traditions have been used for Fijians for centuries.

See more spas in the area in the 5 Best Day Spas on the Pacific Harbour & Beqa.

Location: Nanuku Resort, Queens Road, Pacific Harbour, Viti Levu.

3. Island Surf Spa & Beauty

You can still have a luxurious spa treatment in Fiji without paying the luxury prices thanks to day spas like the Island Surf Spa & Beauty.

Situated at Hotel BulaBard in Wailoaloa, Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi, and on the road to Denarau Island, the Island Surf Spa & Beauty offers a signature “Bobo Massage” which promises to improve circulation and give your skin a radiant glow.

You’ll also find a wide range of international-style massages, facials, manicure, pedicure, waxing, tinting and braiding.

For more spas nearby, check out the 10 Best Spas in Nadi.

Location: Lot 10 Denarau Road; Hotel BulaBard, Wailoaloa; and Tanoa International Hotel, Tanoa Drive, Votualevu, Nadi, Viti Levu.

4. Plantation Spa – Daku Resort & Spa

Famed in Fiji for being one of the best resorts for an affordable wellness escape, the Daku Fiji Resort & Spa is another place to experience the traditional Fijian Bobo Massage. The real Fijian experiences don’t stop there, with a Fijian Champissage, which focuses on the head and neck, also on offer.

On top of that, Daku Resort is a popular yoga retreat – check out 10 Beautiful Places to Experience Yoga in Fiji.

Find the Daku Resort in Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second-largest island.

Location: 5 Lesiaceva Road, Savusavu, Vanua Levu.

5. Spa – Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort

This luxury escape on Vanua Levu, Fiji’s second-largest island, provides beautifully authentic Fijian spa treatments. The Bobo Massage or Bula Mai Massage at the spa at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is a must-try.

For something more adventurous, try the Vunikau cooling treatment wrap using oil from the native Dilo tree which is said to have healing properties.

Location: Lesiaceva Point Road, Savusavu, Vanua Levu.

6. Natural Spa – Garden Island Resort

Get pampered in a secluded massage bure nestled among tropical gardens at the Natural Spa in the Garden Island Resort.

The spa likes to keep things simple, making it easy to choose between a traditional Fijian Bobo Massage or a Simply Relax Massage. Manicures and pedicures are also on the table, as is a Sweet Sugar Rub and a Pure Fiji Facial.

All of this with the sound of the waves gently rolling in just a few feet away and a rock waterfall feature by the bure.

Discover more spas on the same island in the 10 Best Spas on Taveuni.

Location: Garden Island Resort, Tavuki, west coast of Taveuni.

7. Oasis Spa

Just a short drive from Nadi International Airport and on the luxury resort complex of Denarau Island, Oasis Spa is your go-to for some after-flight comforts or to truly indulge yourself while staying at one of the island’s luxury resorts.

charming little hut is perfect for a quick pop-in, offering a range of treatments from massages and facials to waxing, hair braids, and even Henna tattoos.

For those seeking a more immersive spa experience, head to their main day spa tucked away at the back of the Port Denarau Shopping Centre.

This tranquil oasis boasts soothing decor and multiple rooms set up for both couples’ and individual treatments, of which a traditional bobo massage is available. Whether you’re after a quick pamper or a full day of relaxation, Oasis Spa has you covered!

See more amazing spas on Denarau Island in the 10 Best Spas on Denarau Island.

Location: Port Denarau Shopping Centre, Denarau Island, Nadi, Viti Levu.

8. Uprising Beach Resort Spa – Uprising Beach Resort

Indulge in a blissful spa experience at the Uprising Beach Resort. Their serene spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments to soothe your body and soul.

Choose from the traditional Fijian bobo massage (also known as lomilomi), deep tissue massage, relaxation massage, back massage, or foot massage. (You’ll be feeling like putty in no time!)

The spa services are available from 9 am to 11 am and again from 2:30 pm to 4:30 pm, subject to masseuse availability. For ultimate convenience, you can even request in-room massages. Talk about being pampered! After your spa session, why not explore more of what the area has to offer?

Discover more resorts with amazing spas in the 25 Best Spa Resorts in Fiji.

Location: Beach Road, Pacific Harbour, Viti Levu.

9. Tropica Day Spa – Tropica Island Resort

One of the highlights offered at Tropica Day Spa of the Tropica Island Resort is the traditional Fijian bobo massage used to stimulate circulation and release tension.

There are also various couples’ spa packages well worth treating yourself to at this adults-only resort. When choosing your room, take a look at the Sanctuary Pool Suite, which has a private pool.

See more like this in the 10 Best Spas & Spa Resorts in the Mamanuca Islands.

Location: Malolo Island, the southwestern region of the Mamanuca Islands.

10. Baravi Spa – Yasawa Island Resort & Spa

The award-winning spa at the Yasawa Island Resort & Spa is reason alone to choose this luxury resort in the Yasawa Islands. Indulge in an open-air massage while feeling the warm island breeze on the ocean-view massage decks overhanging the beach.

The spa offers a mix of traditional and contemporary spa treatments, including the bobo massage, which can be taken advantage of daily with a spa treatment included each day or upgrade to the “Ultimate Spa Package” for a 50-minute treatment per day.

Learn more about this resort and others in the 10 Best Spas & Spa Resorts in the Yasawa Islands.

Location: Yasawa Island, the northern region of the Yasawa Islands.

More About Fiji Spas and the Fijian Bobo Massage

That’s it for our guide to Fiji spas and the Fijian bobo massage; for more information about relaxation and wellness in Fiji, check out the following articles:

Finally, if there’s anything we’ve missed, you’re likely to find it in the 30 Best Spa Resorts in Fiji.

Sources:

The information in this guide has been compiled from our extensive research, travel and experiences across Fiji and the South Pacific, accumulated over more than a decade of numerous visits to each destination. Additional sources for this guide include the following:

Tourism Fiji (General travel advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association (Tourism trade association - Updated [2025])
SPTO (Pacific tourism advice - Updated [2025])
Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation (Tourism statistics - Updated [2025])
Land Transport Authority (Road safety advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Immigration (Visa and immigration advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Revenue & Customs Service (Customs and visitor taxes - Updated [2025])
Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (Biosecurity advice - Updated [2025])
Fiji Meteorological Service (Weather forecast and warnings - Updated [2025])
Fiji Bureau of Statistics (Statistics and travel data - Updated [2025])
Safe Travel (New Zealand travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
Smart Traveller (Australia travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])
Travel.State.Gov (U.S. travel advisory for Fiji - Updated [2025])

Our editorial standards: At Fiji Pocket Guide, we uphold strict editorial standards to ensure accurate and quality content.

About The Author

Laura (Lora) S.

This article was reviewed and published by Laura, editor in chief and co-founder of Fiji Pocket Guide. Since arriving solo in the South Pacific over 10 years ago with nothing but a backpack and a background in journalism, her mission has been to show the world how easy (and awesome) it is to explore a paradise such as Fiji. She knows the islands inside-out and loves sharing tips on how best to experience Fiji’s must-dos and hidden gems. Laura is also editor of several other South Pacific travel guides.

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