A Lovers Utopia

The islands of Fiji are a worldly destination for lovers and a place where legends still come alive.

On Nananu-i-ra, a speck of land off Viti Levu in Fiji, legendary young lovers found a sanctuary from their disapproving elders, helping the island earn its name, "Dreamland of the West."

A Fiji honeymoon can be a "life-changing experience," says Corinne Goodman, president of Down Under Endeavours Inc., which specializes in luxury travel to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Tahiti. From diving for blue starfish and whitewater rafting to rainforest hikes and exploring sacred caves, Fiji offers a nearly limitless variety of activities. But it's the islands' warm and friendly people and their laidback approach to life that often makes the greatest impression, says Goodman.

Friendly Fijian villagers still welcome visitors into their homes as honored guests and the traditional kava-drinking ceremony remains a vital part of most social interactions. The islands' tradition of hospitality extends from the hearty "bula" greetings you'll receive upon arrival to the exotic and luxurious resorts that attract romantics from around the world.

One of Goodman's favorite Fiji honeymoon destinations is the new Likuliku Lagoon Resort, which caters exclusively to couples and is the first in Fiji to offer overwater accommodations. "You can walk off the stairs from your bungalow right into the ocean any time of day, then sit and sip champagne and watch the sunset," says Goodman. At night, bioluminescent sea creatures light up the waters, while the endless starry sky above provides a canopy of complete silence.

Deep-sea fishing, snorkeling and Fiji-style massages at the Tatadra Spa are all part of the Likuliku experience. Located on a small island dotted with ancient sacred sites, Likuliku appeals to "sophisticated travelers who want a polished style of resort," says Goodman. An "amazing" and attentive staff—hailing from local villages—will pamper you from the moment you step off the island's helipad. "They smile and giggle all the time, but float on the perimeter—never getting in your face," says Goodman.

In the rainforests of Vanua Levu lies the Namale resort, where just 14 guest bures hide amid a lush, 325 acres. "Guests spend their days horseback riding on the beach, hiking to waterfalls, or enjoying a couples massage at a spa perched on a black volcanic mountain peak," says Goodman. Weekly highlights of a Namale stay include visits from local villagers who perform narrative "meke" dances and sell "sulu" sarongs and other handicrafts. Many guests also choose to attend Fijian Sunday morning church services, known for their angelic hymnals.

Honored as one of the top luxury resorts in the world, the Qamea Resort and Spa welcomes just 28 guests at any given time and immerses all in an eco-friendly island of luxury. "You really feel isolated and nestled in the rainforest," explains Goodman. Beachfront honeymoon bures with private spa pools are set well apart from each other and private in-room and candlelit beach dinners are available upon request. Yet Qamea (pronounced "yah-may-a") also has its social aspects, with guests gathering at mealtime to share stories of the day's adventures, which may include morning nature hikes, snorkeling in offshore waters teeming with tropical fish, or making new friends during a village tour.

The "serene and private" Yasawa Island Resort and Spa seamlessly integrates simple indulgences with natural beauty. The resort boasts bure-style rooms with open-air rain showers and shaded outdoor day beds and Goodman raves about the "magical" Lomalagi honeymoon bure—the name means "Heaven" in Fijian—which has its own private infinity pool.

Yasawa guests enjoy five-star dining and can indulge in selections from the best wine cellar in Fiji, but this is also a destination for adventurers, says Goodman. A private launch will take you to the beaches and coves where the movie “The Blue Lagoon” was filmed, and you can barter seashells with local village children when you return. For a private romantic picnic, "You can pick your perfect beach for the day," Goodman says.

Written by Bob Curley