It's no secret that we're Fiji fanatics. The soft coral capital of the world is a dreamy dive destination thanks to its excellent visibility and thriving marine life. Above the waves, the tiny nation impresses with jaw-dropping nature, fascinating culture and friendly people. But with 333 islands to choose from, where do you begin? From exclusive resorts to shark diving hotspots and sprawling barrier reefs, we've rounded up the top islands in Fiji to suit every type of traveller. Slip beneath the South Pacific's surface and discover Fiji's world-class diving spots…
Vanua Levu
First up on our list of the top islands in Fiji is Vanua Levu. The nation's second-largest isle is a diver's paradise, with access to the spectacular Namena Marine Reserve - a 23-square-mile protected area home to pristine reef walls. Lucky visitors might encounter migratory humpback, minke and sperm whales while coasting past corals and schools of fish. The best part? You needn't be an expert diver to enjoy the reserve's delights (the snorkelling is spectacular too). What's more, the underwater fun doesn't stop there. Experienced divers can head to Dreamhouse dive site (one of Fiji's most famous) for plentiful pelagic action; this remote seamount offers thrilling sightings from grey reef and whitetip sharks to barracudas. The (very) lucky few might even meet the scalloped hammerhead sharks that hang out here year-round. Vanua Levu is also home to one of our favourite family dive resorts - Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort - the perfect spot to learn to dive.
Taveuni
Known as the 'Garden Island' thanks to its lush jungle-filled interior, Taveuni's underwater world is equally enticing. Offering everything from beginner-friendly sheltered reefs to exhilarating drift dives, Taveuni is the best access point for the Somosomo Strait - home of the 20-mile-long Rainbow Reef and some of the most incredible soft corals on earth. Thanks to strong tidal currents bringing abundant nutrients for corals and fish to thrive, its Great White Wall is one of the top (and most dramatic) dive sites in the world. What makes it so special? Well, the clue's in the name - this 35m reef wall is carpeted with otherworldly white soft corals, attracting pelagic species and tiny critters alike. Timing is everything, however, to ensure that currents are safe and the famous corals are in bloom (that's where our expertise comes in handy). Stay at Paradise Taveuni Resort and you can even try some shore diving on the magical house reef.
Laucala Island
Eager to stay at an exclusive island resort? Laucala Island is just the ticket. This private island is a haven of luxury, boasting one of the most exclusive island resorts in the world - COMO Laucala Island. As well as providing excellent access to the must-visit Great White Wall (just a short boat ride away from Laucala), you can also discover the healthy coral gardens of the resort's inner reef. You'll even have the watery wonderland all to yourself, thanks to the island's exclusivity. And there's plenty to adore on land, too. Relax post-dive with a complimentary massage at the COMO Shambhala spa, gallop across sugar-white sand beaches on horseback or head into the forest-clad interior in search of endemic bird species, medicinal plants and primaeval flora with a resident naturalist.
Beqa Island
Next on our list of the top islands in Fiji is the country's shark diving capital, Beqa Island. In Beqa Lagoon, adventure-seekers can encounter up to eight shark species in a single dive, including silvertip, sicklefin lemon, nurse, bull and even the occasional tiger shark. If shark diving fills you with fear, don't panic. There are plenty of spectacular soft coral sites for you to explore (plus easy access to over 18 miles of barrier reef). Back on dry land, Beqa is a tropical island bliss, free from cars and roads. The isle is just six miles away from Fiji's main island, Vitu Levu, so you can explore its myriad delights (including white water rafting, rainforests and traditional villages) and return to Beqa in time for sunset drinks. And Beqa's beauties don't stop when the sun goes down - head out on a night snorkelling expedition to marvel at bioluminescent plankton and other fluorescent creatures as you glide through the glowing underwater world.
Drawaqa Island, Yasawa Islands
Desert island idylls aren't in short supply in Fiji, and the Yasawa Island group are as postcard perfect as they come. Visit dreamy Drawaqa between April and October, and you can expect almost daily sightings of manta rays at the feeding site between Drawaqa and Naviti Islands. Marine biology enthusiasts can even take part in building a reef highway as part of our Citizen Science project at the island's Barefoot Manta Resort. Beyond swimming alongside these gentle giants, there are over 40 dive sites to discover around Drawaqa. From the kaleidoscopic colours of the 'Garden of Eden' sloping wall to copious coral gardens, swim-throughs and wrecks (two fishing vessels were scuttled here to create artificial reefs), there's plenty to keep you occupied.
Kokomo, Kadavu Islands
Along with Drawaqa, Kokomo is one of the best spots in Fiji for manta ray sightings (between April and August). Located in the captivating Kadavu Islands, Kokomo is a private island resort offering easy access to the Great Astrolabe Reef - the world's fourth-largest barrier reef at 62 miles long. Renowned for its hard coral, this radiant reef is home to over 1,000 fish species and 200 types of coral. Discover the watery depths surrounding Kokomo at over 30 dive sites, including the Grotto - a mysterious network of caves and swim-throughs - and blooming walls of soft corals at Corner and Rainbow's End. You can even play your part in Kokomo's coral conservation efforts; join the resort's marine biology team and help with coral selection and transplantation. Above the waves? Alongside kayaking, yoga and spa time, visit a traditional Fijian village for a kava ceremony with the village chief. It might just be the highlight of your trip.
