Nestled in a once flourishing coconut plantation, Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort occupies 17 acres on Vanua Levu, the second largest in the island chain. You'll stay in authentic Fijian-style bures (say boo-ray) amidst a lush landscape on the shores of Savusavu Bay. On one side, tropical gardens blossom with exotic plants and aromatic flowers. On the other, a white sand beach with Fiji's perfect aquamarine waters is only steps away.
Your Fijian home is a traditional thatched-roof bure, one of twenty-five individual huts, combining great views, a tropical feel, and modern amenities. The spacious bures all have private decks, king-size beds plus one or two day beds, private bath, and a small sitting area with writing table. A complimentary minibar (bottled water and beer are replenished daily!), "French Press" coffee maker, coffee and tea, robes, and hairdryer add the modern, luxurious touch. There is no telephone nor television in your bure--with ocean breezes wafting through and views like this, you won't miss them a bit!
The glory of Fiji Islands Resort is that each day takes you further into the fabric of the Fiji community. First learn some key Fijian phrases to help you as you head out into the local villages to: shop in the local market, attend a local church service, work with villagers on a beach clean, treasure traditional crafts. Of course, nature will be a major part of your stay, whether on guided rainforest walks or spectacular coral reef dives. And the spa hits high on the luxury meter with massages and more after all that activity. A week is barely enough to do it all. Pick from a long list of activities, including:
hiking trails
canoeing/kayaking
sailing
snorkeling/diving
beach
mangrove exploration
massage/facial/aromatherapy/wraps
yoga classes
tennis
fitness center
village excursions
Bula Camp offers a children's swimming pool (2-3 feet deep), a jungle gym, slide, sandbox, and an activities bure for arts & crafts.
If you find the need to keep in touch, the staff will even hook you up to the Internet!
Gather in the large open-air restaurant, with its sixty-foot-high temple roof, for a menu specializing in contemporary Fijian, South Pacific, and international cuisine, complemented by exotic drinks and a variety of wines. Enjoy traditional Fijian Lovo nights and Mongolian barbecue/stir-fry. All this while local "Fijian Beach Boys" entertain you with Fijian and American songs at waterside.
Breakfast is the best of fresh tropical fruits, homemade breads, juices, coffee, and tea, with a more extensive a la carte menu for those looking for heartier fare. Reserve the "end of the pier" table, either for a romantic dinner for two or a group celebration, for a special meal under the South Pacific stars.
Jean-Michel Cousteau?s passion for the indigenous people of Fiji, their culture and traditions, and his profound love of children has led him to create an eco-friendly family resort with a unique environmental philosophy. Jean-Michel, son of Jacques Cousteau, is devoted to passing on his love of land, ocean, and culture, as well as his commitment to their preservation.
The onsite managers carry on his mission day-to-day, along with a warm and friendly staff who make it their business to make all eco-adventurers happy and comfortable. After only one day at the resort, EVERY employee knew our names!
The resort is owned by Jean-Michel Cousteau, son of Jacques Cousteau.
You can get PADI certified as a diver at Cousteau Resort.
Weekly slide shows are presented by the resort?s on-site naturalist/marine biologist provide detailed insights into the importance of preserving the environment in Fiji.
The resort offers workshops in the basics of the Fijian language.
PROXIMITY TO NEAREST MAJOR CITY:
There is no major city, but the resort is about ten minutes from the airstrip and five minutes from the town of Savusavu (literally meaning "in and out" just like the daily tide).
HOW DO I GET THERE?
The Cousteau Fiji Islands Resort is located on the island of Vanua Levu, the second largest of the Fiji islands. Situated south of the equator, this tropical paradise is easily accessible from Los Angeles, Sydney and Auckland. Once in Nadi or Suva, your flight to Savusavu is a sightseeing adventure. The resort?s greeter, Seini, will personally welcome guests in Nadi and guide you to your connecting flight. Either Air Fiji or Sunflower Air will fly you to Savusavu, located on Vanua Levu. These comfortable 17-seat planes afford spectacular aerial island views during the 45-minute flight. When you arrive at Savusavu, a shuttle will pick you up and drive you to the resort.
FIXED DEPARTURE DATES?
There are no fixed departure dates.