Island Hopping in Fiji: Your Guide to the Yasawa and Mamanuca Islands
If you’ve been dreaming of white sand beaches, turquoise lagoons, and that glorious feeling of being completely off the grid (but still cocktail-in-hand), then island hopping in Fiji is your ultimate escape. With over 300 islands to explore, we’re breaking it down to four of the best regions for travellers: the Mamanuca Islands, Yasawa Gateway, Mantaray Region, and Blue Lagoon Region.
Whether you're travelling solo, with mates, or planning the perfect post-uni adventure, this guide will help you figure out where to go, what to do, and how to make it all happen - without the stress.
The Mamanuca Islands: Close to Nadi, Big on Chill
Best for: Short stays, beach clubs, snorkelling, water sports
Just a short ferry ride from the mainland, the Mamanuca Islands are made for easy, breezy vibes. Think floating bars, island day resorts, and that dreamy turquoise water you’ve seen all over Instagram.
Top Highlights:
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Cloud 9 - A floating pizzeria and bar in the middle of the ocean. Yes, it's as cool as it sounds.
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Snorkelling & Diving - Calm, clear waters make it a snorkeller’s playground.
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South Sea Island - Tiny but packed with watersports, hammocks, and reef trips.
Hot Tip: If you’ve only got a few days in Fiji or want hassle-free day trips from Nadi, the Mamanucas are your go-to.
Yasawa Gateway Region: Where Adventure Begins
Best for: Active travellers, nature lovers, and those keen to explore land and sea
The Yasawa Gateway Region marks the start of Fiji’s wilder side - a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences. Here, lush mountains meet crystal-clear reefs, and the adventure doesn’t stop when the sun goes down.
Top Highlights:
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Snorkel with Reef Sharks - Dive into an unforgettable experience with reef sharks in their natural habitat, guided by experts who know the waters inside out.
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Sunset Tubing - Float around with a drink in hand and enjoy epic sunset views - the perfect way to end the day in Fiji.
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Mountain Hiking - Explore scenic trails on Waya and Kuata Islands, where panoramic views, tropical wildlife, and photo-worthy peaks await.
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Waya Island - Known for its epic hiking trails and welcoming locals.
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Kuata Island - Home to Barefoot Kuata and its incredible reef shark snorkelling experience, plus great access to marine tours.
Hot Tip: Don’t miss a hike up to a summit for an unforgettable sunset view - it's one of the best vantage points in the region.
Mantaray Region: Swim with the Giants
Best for: Nature lovers, bucket-listers, snorkelling and diving fans
This area is famous for one thing: swimming with manta rays. Between May and October, these gentle giants glide through local channels, offering one of the most unforgettable wildlife encounters in the South Pacific. But the region is more than just manta rays - with vibrant coral reefs, cultural experiences, and incredible island scenery, it’s an essential stop on any island-hopping itinerary.
Top Highlights:
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Swim with Manta Rays - The main event! Join guided tours during the season (May-Oct) to snorkel alongside these majestic creatures.
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Snorkel Heaven - Dive into crystal-clear waters teeming with colourful reef life.
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Village Visits - Take part in guided trips to nearby villages to experience traditional Fijian hospitality and culture.
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Barefoot Manta Island Resort - Eco-conscious and ocean-facing, this resort is known for its marine conservation programs and close access to the manta ray channel.
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Mantaray Island Resort - A vibrant and social resort with snorkelling right off the beach and stunning natural surroundings.
Hot Tip: Book early during manta season - spots at both resorts fill up quickly due to their unbeatable location.
Blue Lagoon Region: Epic Views, Caves & Island Adventures
Best for: Exploring, adventure, and soaking up Fiji’s most stunning scenery
This region is known for its calm turquoise waters, dramatic island landscapes, and a mix of adventure and relaxation. From hidden caves to sweeping beaches and scenic hikes, the Blue Lagoon Region is one of the most visually striking areas in the Yasawas.
Top Highlights:
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Sawa-i-Lau Caves - Explore mystical limestone caves with hidden chambers and natural pools.
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Nanuya Island - Home to beautiful beaches, tropical landscape, and easy access to nearby caves and reefs.
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Blue Lagoon Beach Resort - A fan-fave for its laid-back luxury and incredible snorkelling.
Hot Tip: The caves are closed on Sundays, so make sure your itinerary gives you enough time to explore them.
How to Island Hop in Fiji (Without the Stress)
You don’t need to spend hours piecing together ferry timetables or figuring out where to stay. Peterpans offers flexible, stress-free options to make island hopping a breeze:
Inclusive Island-Hopping Packages
The ultimate no-stress choice. These packages include accommodation, ferry transfers, and must-do activities - all pre-planned so you can just show up and enjoy. Check out top picks like the Coconut Cruiser or Fiji Explorer for perfectly curated itineraries.
Awesome Pass (Ferries + Flexible Accommodation)
Perfect for travellers who want flexibility without giving up structure. The Awesome Pass includes ferry transfers plus accommodation, so you can lock in your route and still explore at your own pace.
Bula Pass (Ferries Only)
The Bula Pass gives you unlimited ferry access for a set number of days. Great for freestyle travellers who want to book accommodation on the go and explore their way.
Why Book Your Fiji Trip with Peterpans?
We’ve been helping travellers explore Fiji for years, and we know these islands inside out. From choosing the right travel pass to finding the best accommodation, day trips, and hidden gems - we’ve got your back.
Our team has been there, snorkelled that, and sipped cocktails in those hammocks - and now we’re here to help you plan the ultimate island escape.
Ready to plan your dream trip?
Reach out to our crew and let’s build your perfect Fiji island-hopping adventure. You bring the sunhat - we’ll handle the rest.
