The Family Travel Guide to the Mamanuca Islands

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How to Get to the Mamanuca Islands

As the closest island group to the Nadi International Airport, Fiji’s main airport – see How to Get to Fiji, getting to the Mamanuca Islands is a relatively quick and painless process. Most water transport departs from Port Denarau, where many operators offer land transfers from the airport to the port – check out our 5 Ways to Get to Denarau Island. The trip from the airport to Port Denarau will take around 25 minutes, while your water transport duration will depend on your chosen island.

Mamanuca Islands via Ferry

One of the most popular and somewhat affordable ways to get to the Mamanucas from Port Denarau is via a high-speed catamaran ferry. Find out more about ferry operators, schedules and more in How to Take the Ferry to the Mamanuca Islands.

Mamanuca Islands via Water Taxi

Get straight to your desired Mamanuca Island destination in no time with a 24-hour water taxi. Most water taxis are best taken from Port Denarau, where your booked service will be aligned with your flight arrival time. Check out How to Catch a Water Taxi in Fiji for more information on operators, prices and more.

Mamanuca Islands via Boat Transfer

Many of the resorts on the Mamanuca Islands organise their own boat transfer to their island, for instance, from Wailoaloa Beach, Fantasy Island and Vuda Point. They provide a slightly cheaper option than ferries, which you can learn more about in How to Take the Ferry to the Mamanuca Islands.

Mamanuca Islands via Helicopter or Seaplane

Treat you and your family to a wonderful scenic experience while getting to your chosen family resort in the Mamanucas. Air operators can transport you from either Port Denarau or Nadi International Airport straight to your resort within 10 minutes. More information can be found in our  How to Take the Ferry to the Mamanuca Islands, while you can compare the two flight options in our article, Helicopter Vs. Seaplane for Island Transfers in Fiji.

For more information on how to reach these idyllic islands, check out our guide on the 10 Ways to Get to the Mamanuca Islands.

© Mark Snyder - Tourism Fiji

Family Water Activities

With warm weather and warm waters, getting out on the water is always a great way to cool down and make a splash with the kids! Fiji’s underwater world is fascinating to discover, whether it’s from a kayak or snorkelling with the fish. The Mamanuca Islands are some of the best islands to get out on the water.

Snorkelling and Scuba Diving

Showing the kids the lively and beautiful underwater world is one of the highlights of a family holiday on the Mamanuca Islands. As long as your child is able to swim, there is a snorkelling or scuba diving trip waiting for you. Snorkelling is the most accessible way to see the coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Most resorts have snorkelling spots accessible straight from the beach. Alternatively, jump on a snorkelling tour to get to the best spots – most Mamanuca Island resorts have their own snorkelling tours, or check out the 15 Fun Family Day Trips from Denarau for snorkelling tours of the Mamanuca Islands from the mainland.

For the best array of soft and hard coral reefs, don’t miss the opportunity to scuba dive. Children aged 10 years and above can jump on an introductory scuba diving trip or a learn-to-scuba course. Trips are available from Subsurface Fiji at the Malolo Island Resort and Musket Cove, Purple Turtle at the Sheraton Tokoriki Resort, Ocean Play at VOMO Island and many other dive centres. Purple Turtle also provides scuba diving trips to the Mamanuca Islands from Port Denarau.

Watersports

Family resorts in the Mamanuca Islands have an abundance of watersport equipment for families to enjoy. Note that non-motorised equipment like stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, Hobie cat sailboats, and sometimes windsurfing boards are free for guests to use. It’s a great way to explore the coast of your island and watch the fish in the clear waters below. Check out the 10 Free & Cheap Things to Do in the Mamanuca Islands for more activities you can do from the resort.

Game and Reef Fishing

Mum and Dad can tackle some of the ocean’s feistiest monsters on a game fishing charter with Beachcomber Island, Malolo Island Resort and Musket Cove Resort. It’s an impressive sight for the kids, and they’ll get to have a go themselves with the abundance of reef fishing available on every fishing trip! Get more advice in The Complete Guide to Fishing in Fiji.

Island Excursions

There are around 30 islands in the Mamanuca Islands, so we fully recommend getting out of the confines of your resort and exploring! Island cruising is a fantastic way to spend the day in the Mamanucas, whether it’s on the Musket Cove dolphin safari, a snorkelling cruise which is offered by just about all family resorts, or visiting the floating Cloud 9 pizza bar, which is available from Port Denarau and most resorts! For excursion ideas, check out The Best Day Trips from the Mamanuca Islands & Denarau.

© Mark Snyder - Tourism Fiji

Family Land Activities

Family resorts in the Mamanuca Islands are located on stunning tropical islands that are begging to be explored. Get out on a bike or explore on foot with a range of walking trails suitable for little ones and adventurous teens. You’ll also enjoy the number of opportunities to spend quality family time together with the sports courts and equipment.

Land Sports

Every family resort in the Mamanucas has sports equipment for families to get competitive and create stronger bonds. What’s more, they are free to use, making it an amazing way to kill a couple of hours. Check out the tennis courts on Castaway Island or Mana Island, play beach volleyball at the Sheraton Tokoriki Resort, or go on a family cycling trip at Six Senses Fiji. VOMO Island even has its own 9-hole golf course meandering through the coconut groves!

Walking Trails

Sometimes, simply going for a stroll is the best way to see the island you are staying on. Walk among stunning tropical forests, up to stunning viewpoints and along the beaches for a great way to spend the morning or evening with the family – best done when the sun is less intense. Castaway Island has an abundance of trails where their staff can show you where to go. Six Senses Fiji will cook you up a big breakfast before you tackle their hilltop walk. Take a gentle walk to the beach from the Mana Island Resort, or show your kids the spectacular birds on a bushwalk. Otherwise, we list a few more hikes that are involved in the 5 Best Walks & Hikes in the Mamanuca Islands.

© Mark Snyder - Tourism Fiji

Family Cultural Activities

Usually, one of the most memorable parts of the family holiday in the Mamanuca Islands is discovering the local culture. Children and adults alike find the traditions of the island people super captivating, so they share the experience together during a village visit, kava ceremony, or a night of Fijian song and dance.

Village Visits

Some resorts share islands with Fijian villages where visitors can see everyday village life being played out with the resort’s village visit. For instance, Malolo Island Resort offers the Shell Village Tour, which allows visitors to visit the villages of Solevu and Yalo, as listed in the 10 Best Village Tours in Fiji!

Meke and Lovo Nights

An immersive cultural experience for the whole family is the “meke” nights at many of the family resorts in the Mamanucas. Resorts like Malolo Island Resort, Six Senses and Ratu Kini put on weekly cultural entertainment nights where the stories of the islands are told through captivating song and dance. Usually, the experience is followed by a “lovo” – food cooked in an underground oven.

Kava Ceremonies

Drinking kava – a drink made from ground yaqona root – is an integral part of Fijian tradition. Experiencing a kava ceremony is a must-do on the islands of Fiji, where your resort will guide you and your family through the protocols and fascinating traditions. While it’s polite for adults to accept the first kava drink, it is optional for children. Learn more about these customs in the 10 Best Ways to Experience the Fijian Culture.

More Things to Do in the Mamanuca Islands

The rest of your time in the Mamanuca Islands can be enjoyed by joining a snorkelling tour to vibrant coral reefs, learning to surf at world-class breaks, or indulging in a spa treatment at a luxury resort, which you can find out more about in the 10 Best Family Activities in the Mamanuca Islands. For experiences that don’t necessarily fall into the family-friendly category but are no less amazing, check out the 25 Best Things to Do in the Mamanuca Islands.

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Resort Activities for Kids

A family holiday isn’t a family holiday without the kids getting to spend some time away from the adults! Many of the resorts on the Mamanuca Islands have fantastic kids’ clubs, as well as activities that the little ones especially will enjoy.

Kids’ Clubs on the Mamanuca Islands

The kids get a day of fun, and the parents get a break: it’s a win-win at the kids’ clubs of the Mamanuca Islands! The Mamanuca Islands’ kids’ clubs are a fantastic way for kids to socialise and learn more about Fiji’s nature and culture. Plantation Island Resort‘s Coconut Kids’ Club has a jam-packed itinerary of coconut boat making, T-shirt tie-dye and much more, while at the Nakelo Treasure Island Resort, kids get the unique opportunity to be involved in turtle conservation programs. Find out more about each kids’ club in our 10 Best Kids’ Clubs on the Mamanuca Islands.

Teens’ Clubs on the Mamanuca Islands

For the older kids, the Mamanuca teen clubs give them the opportunity to mingle with young adults their own age. The Lairo Club at the Plantation Island Resort is for 12-16 years and has an itinerary of kayaking, beach games, crafts and walks – just to name a few. Khail’s Club at Malolo Island Resort is a lounge for 13-18-year-olds with bean bags, table tennis, free WiFi and more.

More Children’s Activities and Facilities

Kids staying at the Six Senses Fiji have an interesting selection of eco-friendly activities that are especially for them, such as kids’ yoga, solar oven-making, tree planting, bracelet weaving, and pizza-making. If you’re looking for more simple fun, then kids will love the Kids Village at VOMO Island, which is packed with undercover and outdoor play areas, climbing frames, dress-up wardrobes, and a craft area. Finally, don’t miss the inflatable water park at the Plantation Island Resort!

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Family-Friendly Dining in the Mamanuca Islands

Families visiting the Mamanucas are in for a treat when it comes to dining options! Every resort offers a range of culinary experiences suitable for all ages, from casual beachfront cafes perfect for a laid-back family lunch to more upscale restaurants for those special family dinners. Most resorts feature à la carte menus, giving you and your little ones plenty of choices. Some smaller, intimate resorts offer daily set menus – a great way to introduce your kids to new flavours, but you will be required to order a few hours in advance.

Many resorts take pride in using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, often incorporating traditional Fijian flavours into their dishes. It’s a wonderful opportunity for your children to try new foods! You’ll find plenty of kid-friendly options, as well as seafood, tropical fruits, and international cuisines with a Fijian twist. Some resorts even offer fun dining experiences like beach barbecues or themed nights that the whole family will love.

For those travelling with fussy eaters or children with dietary requirements, don’t worry! Most resorts are happy to accommodate special requests – just let them know in advance. Some resorts also offer meal plans, which can be a great option for families. It takes the stress out of budgeting for meals and ensures everyone’s well-fed throughout your stay. To help you decide if this is the right choice for your family, check out our guide on Is it Worth Buying a Resort Meal Plan in Fiji?

The Best Restaurants in the Mamanuca Islands for Families

Planning a family holiday in the Mamanuca Islands? You’re in for a treat! These stunning islands offer not just beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters but also a fantastic array of family-friendly dining options. Let’s explore some of the best restaurants that cater to both young taste buds and discerning parents.

Plantation Island Resort is a culinary paradise that caters to families with its generous dining options. Parents will be delighted to know that children aged 0-11 years can enjoy complimentary meals from the kids’ menu when dining with two paying adults. For those nights when the little ones are feeling picky, a free kids’ buffet is available every evening at the Kids Club, ensuring that even the fussiest eaters are well-fed and happy.

The resort’s Copra Restaurant is a family favourite, offering nightly-themed buffet dinners that are sure to please everyone. From the aromatic spices of Curry Night to the sizzling delights of BBQ Night and the Mediterranean flavours that transport you to sunnier climes, there’s always something exciting on the menu. When you’re in between beach activities and need a quick bite, casual options like burgers, sandwiches, and hot dogs are readily available, perfect for refuelling before heading back to the sand and surf.

Over at Castaway Island Resort, families are spoilt for choice with excellent dining options that cater to all tastes. The Water’s Edge Restaurant offers a picturesque setting with stunning beach views, serving à la carte lunch and dinner. Don’t miss their special Fijian nights, where you can introduce the kids to local flavours and fresh seafood, creating lasting memories of your island adventure.

For a more relaxed family dinner, the Sundowner Bar & Grill is the place to be. Known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, this casual spot is perfect for laid-back evenings. Parents can unwind with happy hour cocktails while the little ones tuck into their favourite slices, all against the backdrop of a beautiful Fijian sunset.

Mana Island Resort & Spa understands that variety is the spice of life, especially when it comes to family dining. The Terrace Restaurant offers a diverse menu of international and local cuisine, catering to different tastes and preferences. Keep an eye out for their themed nights and special events – they’re always a hit with kids and adults alike, offering a fun and interactive dining experience for the whole family.

For those days when you want to stay close to the beach, The Sunset Bar & Grill is the ideal spot. Located near the shore, it’s perfect for casual meals and snacks throughout the day. Parents can relax with a cool drink and take in the breathtaking views while the kids play on the nearby sand, creating the perfect balance of family time and holiday relaxation.

These family-friendly restaurants in the Mamanuca Islands ensure that mealtimes are enjoyable for everyone, from the youngest to the oldest family members. For more dining options and detailed information, check out The Food Guide to the Mamanuca Islands: Places to Eat & Food Resorts.