Ever wondered where the heart of Fiji tourism beats strongest? Denarau Island is your answer. Just a short 20-minute ride from Nadi International Airport, Denarau Island is more than just a destination. It is a convenient gateway to luxury.
Denarau Island may be called an island but it is connected to the mainland by a short causeway. This makes reaching your holiday haven a breeze. Once reclaimed from mangrove swamps in the late 1960s, Denarau has transformed into the unofficial center of Fiji tourism.
Development of Denarau Island began in 1969. American developer Dennis McElrath purchased the land. The first hotel was The Regent of Fiji. It is now the Westin Denarau. It opened its doors in 1975. Between 1988 and 1991, Japanese property developer EIE International bought all of Denarau in stages. They embarked on a 200 million dollar development project. It involved bulldozing 850 acres of mangrove forest to create an 18-hole golf course, a marina and more hotels. EIE went bankrupt in 1995. A consortium of Tabua Investments of New Zealand, ITT Sheraton and Air Pacific purchased the resort.
At the heart of Denarau Island lies the Denarau Golf & Racquet Club. It offers a world-class golfing experience. The island boasts an impressive collection of hotels and resorts from international chains. Names like Hilton, Sheraton, Radisson, Westin, Sofitel and Wyndham dot the landscape.
Denarau Marina is a hub of activity. It provides sea transfer services to the stunning island chains of the Mamanucas and Yasawas. Port Denarau offers more than just a marina. It is a shopping precinct with a variety of restaurants, a supermarket, a bakery, hairdressers and tour operators.
Getting around Denarau is easy. The affordable Bula Bus travels to all of the main resorts and tourist attractions. While on Denarau, a visit to Port Denarau Marina is a must. Enjoy a cocktail and a bite to eat. Spoil yourself with a spa treatment. Find souvenirs at the local shops. It is also the departure point for island excursions to Malamala Beach Club, South Sea Island or Cloud 9.
Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, Denarau Island caters to all. Expect premium facilities at Denarau Island’s resorts. Lagoon-style swimming pools await you. Exceptional restaurants and bars offer culinary delights. Luxe day spas provide relaxation. Fun-filled kids’ clubs keep the little ones entertained. Denarau Island is a popular destination for weddings and special events.