Nukubati Great Sea Reef

The staff welcomed us warmly and shared local food and traditions, which made the island feel unique. We spent 10 days at Nukubati over Christmas and New Year, and it felt like a total mind and body cleanse. Leone, our dive instructor, became ‘King of the North’ to us, and he really was a fish whisperer. His knowledge of the Great Sea Reef is unmatched. If you’re a diver, come see Leone. Vinaka vaka levu for having us. My wife and I will be back!

Snorkeling on the Great Sea Reef with nobody else out there was an unforgettable, once in a lifetime experience. Nukubati feels wonderfully private: from our beachfront bure we could see the ocean from bed, and at night the stars were magical. Looking out across the water, there were no buildings, lights, or noise nearby, and it felt like we had the beach to ourselves. The food was mostly organic farm to table or fresh seafood, with juices and wellness shots made with turmeric and locally grown ginger, plus great cocktails and an extensive wine list. They catered to dietary needs, baking fresh homemade gluten free bread for me every day and offering delicious gluten free desserts. Yoga mats made it easy to practice on our private deck or on the beach, and there was an extensive book library for switching off from technology. My massage with Eta was divine, and the oil was made from the island’s coconuts. The resort’s sustainability focus is remarkable: it was the South Pacific’s first solar powered resort and uses treated, tested rainwater that was found to be purer than bottled Fiji water. The staff made us feel like family. Three generations from one family have worked there, which says a lot about managers Lara and Leone. The location, food, staff, and care put into everything exceeded my expectations. Nukubati is a private slice of paradise, and I can’t recommend it enough.

Sharing stories over kava with the crew each evening was magical, and the owners took us on a personalized tour of Labasa where meeting the people was amazing. The staff were wonderful, and so was the food. For scuba diving or snorkeling, every place we visited was amazing. This island made our best vacation by far, and set the bar so high that I doubt any other trip will live up to it. It’s the kind of place you always dream about. A big thank you to everyone!

The accommodation was spacious and comfortable, with large louvre windows that kept it cool. I had the best sleep I’ve had in years. Nukubati was just the escape I wanted from the daily rush, especially the hassles of the digital world, and a great place for real relaxation and Fijian hospitality. The managers and staff worked together so well, and everyone was friendly and accommodating. The owners have kept the resort running on solar power for its energy needs for 30 years, and are close to being self sustaining. It felt almost like its own little country. Meals included plenty of fresh produce from the island farm, along with other things. The highlight was a traditional Fijian feast, prepared in true Fijian fashion. I absolutely loved Nukubati. Go and try it for yourself!