One of the smallest islands in the Yasawa chain is home to secluded beaches, top-class dive sites, and some truly enormous manta rays.
Nanuya Balavu is the jewel in the crown of the Yasawa Islands. This tiny island is peaceful, rich in sea life, and picturesque to the extreme. With only one resort on Nanuya Balavu, the majority of the island is untouched by human development and all yours to explore at will. Come for a memorable day trip or stay overnight at the Mantaray Island Resort, making more time for relaxation and activities on the water.
Head straight to the gorgeous blue water that surrounds the island. Lie back on one of the island’s many secluded beaches, or join a snorkeling or diving trip at the resort. A team of qualified instructors at the resort are a reliable source of advice and hints about secret spots. Take a kayak out for a casual paddle in calm waters protected by the reefs.
Nanuya Balavu is also a favourite spot for fishing. Board a charter that will take you out beyond the reefs, and try your hand at catching tuna, marlin, or giant trevally. If you’re lucky, the resort will cook the fish for you and you can gorge yourself on your very own catch.
The island’s star attraction is without a doubt the huge manta rays, which can stretch up to seven metres (22 feet) wide. These gentle giants come to rest in the island’s lagoons between May and October each year, feasting in the nutrient- and plankton-rich channel between Nanuya Balavu and the island of Drawaqa.
Join these graceful animals in the water and swim freely amongst them, safe in the knowledge they are harmless to humans. Diving is not allowed around the rays, but you may bring a snorkel along.
Nanuya Balavu is around three hours’ boat ride from Fiji’s main island, Viti Levu. The Mantaray Island Resort offers dorm-style housing as well as a few private one-room villas. A range of other accommodation options are available throughout the Yasawa Islands.
