Wellesley Resort

The beach has easy snorkeling through seagrass beds and coral reefs, and we thought it was spectacular. The property is full of plant, animal and fungal biodiversity, with plenty of accessible trails. As two ecologists from the U.S., we loved the deep nature and incredible snorkeling alongside clean, nice, safe amenities. We stayed three nights in December, and for almost the whole time it was just us and one other couple. We were out exploring other areas during the day, but had dinner here each night. The handmade food was delicious, a mix of Indian and traditional Fijian dishes. The one small downside was that our room smelled strongly of artificial cleaning products, which I’m very sensitive to. The manager promptly brought us natural candles and incense to help. It was an incredible stay, and I’d return in a heartbeat.

Saying goodbye was really hard. The whole place feels warm and full of life, and we felt that sense of community everywhere. What makes Fiji special to us is how people from different cultures and religions live peacefully together, help one another, and welcome strangers so openly. There’s a real feeling of calm and joy in everyday life. You can tell the staff work as a team, with everyone pitching in wherever needed. The gardener is around in the evenings, while the chef helps out by the pool or outside in the mornings. One staff member especially stayed with us: his warmth, charm and zest for life brightened every day. He arranges activities, goes along with guests, and treats them to delicious food, often with Fijian or Indian flavors. Sometimes he’s still in the kitchen late at night baking cakes. A real all-rounder, and a ray of sunshine even when it rains. A place full of warmth, kindness and joie de vivre.

The staff were so kind and attentive, and Reiss even remembered what we liked to eat. We had a private pool, which was a lovely extra in our beautiful villa. It was a wonderful, relaxing stay, and I’d highly recommend it if you want to unwind and recharge. You basically have a whole beach to yourself for watching the sunrise and sunset each night. It’s also easy to arrange pickup from the main highway for tours and day trips.

We enjoyed this quiet, very private little resort. It’s isolated and seems ideal for a short couples’ retreat. Our private pool room was absolutely worth it. Snorkel gear and kayaks were available, and the staff were happy to arrange a boat so we could go farther out and snorkel with the fish. Our flight was delayed, but they had ground transport waiting. On the way, Joe called the driver to offer us a stop for beverages. There’s no alcohol for sale on the property, though they said we could bring our own. Delays and slow customs meant we arrived after dark. They handed us the keys and said we could complete the formal check-in at the desk the next morning, which was a considerate call by the staff. The food was good, if a bit repetitive. There’s only one restaurant on site, but they’re happy to make changes if you ask. I’m not sure I’d stay longer than 3-4 days, but it’s worth considering for a short island visit or if you’re splitting your time between resorts.