Yasawa Islands, Fiji: travel guide
Remote volcanic islands of lagoons, caves and simple beach stays
A remote chain of volcanic islands northwest of the Mamanucas, reached by the Yasawa Flyer catamaran; home to the Blue Lagoon, Sawa-i-Lau caves and back-to-basics island resorts.
About Yasawa Islands
The Yasawa Islands are a long, remote chain of volcanic islands to the north-west of the Mamanucas. They are quieter and less developed than islands closer to Nadi, with beaches, hills and clear lagoons, and the lodges tend to be simple.
Things to do in the Yasawas include swimming and snorkelling around the Blue Lagoon, visiting the limestone Sawa-i-Lau caves and spending time in village communities. The Yasawa Flyer catamaran links the islands, so it is possible to hop between stays along the chain.
The Yasawas suit backpackers and travellers who want a slower, back-to-basics island experience. The drier months from about May to October are the most comfortable for boat travel and beach time.
- Country
- Fiji
- Currency
- FJD
- Time zone
- Pacific/Fiji
Last updated
Top places to visit in Yasawa Islands
Blue Lagoon
lagoon · 4.6 rating · about 3 h · check the fee at the gate
The turquoise lagoon between Nanuya Lailai and Matacawalevu made famous by the 1980 film; a snorkelling and swimming highlight of the northern Yasawas.
Waya Island
island · 3.5 rating · about 4 h · check the fee at the gate
A rugged southern Yasawa island with dramatic volcanic peaks, hiking to ridgelines and pristine beaches such as those below the Yalobi bay.
Sawa-i-Lau Caves
sea cave · 4.7 rating · about 1.5 h · entry $50 (≈ ₹2,120)
Limestone caverns in the northern Yasawas where visitors swim into a domed chamber lit by an opening above and duck through a submerged tunnel to a second cave.
Things to do
- Sawa-i-Lau Limestone Caves Tour Tour · 3 h · from FJD 75 per person
Day trips and tours
- Yasawa Blue Lagoon Day Cruise 9 h · from FJD 290
Where to stay in Yasawa Islands
- Nacula & Blue Lagoon about FJD 450 per night
Northern Yasawas around the famous Blue Lagoon, from backpacker to boutique.
Hotels
- Nanuya Island Resort 4-star · FJD 450 to FJD 1,000 per night
- Blue Lagoon Beach Resort 3.5-star · FJD 80 to FJD 600 per night
- Coralview Island Resort 3-star · FJD 70 to FJD 320 per night
Getting to Yasawa Islands
Nearest airport: Nadi (NAN), about 89 km away in a straight line. The road or rail journey is longer.
Getting around
- Boat
- Walking
More in Fiji
Frequently asked questions about Yasawa Islands
- What are the top-rated places to visit in Yasawa Islands?
- The highest-rated places in our Yasawa Islands guide are Sawa-i-Lau Caves, Blue Lagoon, Waya Island.
- Where should I stay in Yasawa Islands?
- Our guide covers these areas to stay in Yasawa Islands: Nacula & Blue Lagoon.
- How do I get around Yasawa Islands?
- Ways to get around Yasawa Islands covered in our guide: Boat, Walking.