Description

Leading the way in travel sustainability and once named ‘green hotelier of the year’, Fiji’s Turtle Island was one of the first clean energy resorts on the planet. Having reforested the surrounding land that had been overgrazed by goats, more than half a million trees have been planted in the area since the resort was established, while the 14 beautifully crafted beach villas are powered from the island’s ‘farm of light’ – a collection of solar panels situated nearby.

The beachfront villas themselves have been elegantly designed, utilising local hardwoods wherever possible, with small island flourishes and artisan crafts adding a rich personality. The villas’ vaulted ceilings, wide-open lounge areas and quiet private verandas (complete with your personal day bed) certainly help to gain the most from the sweeping vistas of the neighbouring Yasawa and Fiji islands, not to mention the gorgeous azure hues of the local lagoon.

The island’s name derives from its popularity with nesting sea turtles; local fishermen even bring endangered hawksbill and green turtles here, where they are tagged and set back into the local waters in partnership with World Wildlife Fund. This important conservation work and protection of the area means that opportunities for snorkelers and divers are bountiful, with hundreds of species of extraordinary sea life, vibrant reefs and plants to be discovered. Meanwhile, those looking for further adventures can take up the offers of horseback riding along the beach, windsurfing, kayaking and mountain biking.   

No detail at Turtle Island is left unconsidered by the friendly local staff; each visiting group is even assigned a Bure Mama – a personal concierge who will ensure your villa is exactly how you desire it, and who can also arrange tours and excursions. Nowhere is commitment most noticed than at mealtimes, where guests can choose how they want to dine: be it an al-fresco beach picnic, a lantern-lit supper on a floating pontoon, or experiencing Lovo – an evening meal based upon Fiji’s traditional underground oven method of cooking. With all ingredients locally sourced or grown on the island, you know it’s going to be good.

When To Travel

Fiji is a year round destination with a warm and sunny, tropical climate that rarely drops below 20°C. The wet season runs from November to April and the dry season from May to October.

Location

Turtle Island is situated in the Central Yasawas Islands. International flights arrive at nearby Nadi. From there, you will be transferred by seaplane (30 mins) or boat to resort. Note that some international flights will arrive too late into Nadi for the onward transfer. A night in a hotel nearby may be required.