Australasia
Shangri La Yanuca Island Fiji: great for romantic and family getaway
Dec
If you are looking for a luxury resort in Fiji that offers the best of both worlds: a private island paradise and a convenient connection to the mainland, then you might want to check out Shangri La Yanuca Island Fiji. This resort is located on the exclusive and beautiful Yanuca Island, which is connected to the Coral Coast by a causeway.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, a family holiday, or a solo adventure, Shangri La Yanuca Island Fiji has something for everyone. Read on to find out more about this amazing resort and what you can do there.
> See top tips for visiting Fiji here
Table of Contents
About Shangri La Yanuca Island
Shangri La Yanuca Island spreads out over 109 acres and has a golf course, a spa village, a fitness center, a children’s playground, and five restaurants, and two bars.
The resort has 443 rooms, suites, and bures, all inspired by a traditional Fijian village and featuring a balcony with spectacular views. You can also opt for the Reef Wing, which is an adults-only oasis (where I stayed) with private dinners, spa treatments, and complimentary cocktails and canapés by the pool at sunset.
While the seaview is spectacular, the island has more reef than beach, so if you are looking for picture perfect beaches, it’s more an outer island thing.
Where is Shangri La Yanuca Island
Shangri La Yanuca Island is Fiji’s island resort on the Coral Coast, not too far from the lush Sigatoka Valley and town, and slightly over an hour’s drive from Nadi (and therefore Nadi International Airport).
The resort offer shuttles to Sigatoka at a very reasonable price, which is 20 minutes away.
Rooms in Shangri La Yanuca Island
Shangri La Yanuca Island Fiji has three different wings to suit different types of guests and preferences: the Reef Wing, the Ocean Wing, and the Lagoon Wing. Each wing has its own unique features and benefits, and they are all inspired by a traditional Fijian village. Let me tell you more about each wing and what you can expect from them.
Reef Wing
The Reef Wing is the newest and most luxurious wing of the resort, and it is exclusively for adults. It is located in a separate area that has its own dedicated check-in and check-out and an adults-only infinity pool.
The Reef Wing rooms are spacious and modern, with a private balcony that has a daybed. You can enjoy the stunning views of the reef and the ocean, and relax in the comfortable king-size bed.
The Reef Wing guests also enjoy special privileges, such as complimentary golf green fees, a Fijian turn down gift, a bottle of wine on arrival, and a daily happy hour with free drinks and snacks from 5 to 6 pm.
I stayed in a Reef Wing room and I loved the passion fruit daiquiri that they served during the happy hour. The Reef Wing is perfect for couples and honeymooners who want a romantic getaway.
Ocean Wing
The Ocean Wing is the original wing of the resort, and it has panoramic views of the ocean and the island. It is located on the upper floors of the resort, and it has easy access to the main facilities and activities. The Ocean Wing rooms are cozy and elegant, with a private balcony that has a seating area. You can admire the beautiful scenery, and sleep in the cozy twin or double beds.
The Ocean Wing guests also have access to the lagoon pool and the beach, as well as the five restaurants and two bars of the resort. The Ocean Wing is ideal for solo travelers and families who want a convenient and comfortable stay.
Lagoon Wing
The Lagoon Wing is the ground floor wing of the resort, and it has direct access to the lagoon pool and the beach. It is located on the opposite side of the resort from the Reef Wing, and it has a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Lagoon Wing rooms are bright and spacious, with a private balcony that has a lounge chair. You can step out of your room and enjoy the lagoon pool and the beach, and relax in the plush twin or double beds. The Lagoon Wing guests also have access to the main facilities and activities of the resort, as well as the kids’ corner and the playground. The Lagoon Wing is great for families and groups who want a fun and lively stay.
Restaurants in Shangri La Yanuca Island
One of the best things about staying at Shangri La Yanuca Island Fiji is the variety of dining options that you can choose from. The resort has five restaurants and two bars, each with its own theme and cuisine. Whether you are craving for Asian, Italian, or local flavors, you will find something to satisfy your taste buds. Here is a run down of the restaurants available:
Lagoon Terrace
Lagoon Terrace is the main restaurant of the resort, and it serves buffet breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It has a wide selection of dishes from around the world, such as salads, soups, pasta, pizza, curries, roasts, and desserts. It also has a live cooking station where you can watch the chefs prepare your food.
Lagoon Terrace is family-friendly by the lagoon pool and has a lovely view of the ocean.
I had buffet dinner here and it was tough not to try and eat everything! Kids especially love the dessert corner and I also really enjoyed the roast meat.
Takali Asian Kitchen
Takali Asian Kitchen is the place to go if you love Asian fusion cuisine. It serves dishes from Thailand, India, China, and Japan. It’s located by the beach and has a stunning view of the ocean. It is open for lunch and dinner, and it requires a reservation for dinner, so make sure you book in advance.
I was a bit worried about the food when I ate there, but everything was delicious and their head chef turns out to be Malaysian!
Golden Cowrie Coastal Italian Restaurant
Golden Cowrie Coastal Italian Restaurant is the adults-only restaurant of the resort, and it serves authentic Italian dishes, such as pasta, pizza, and seafood. It has a cozy and elegant atmosphere, with a fireplace and a wine cellar. It also has a private dining room for special occasions.
It is located near the shopping arcade above the Lagoon Restaurant and is open for dinner only. It requires a reservation, so make sure you book in advance.
Beach Bar & Grill
Beach Bar & Grill is the casual and relaxed restaurant of the resort, and it serves burgers, sandwiches, salads, and snacks. It is the perfect place to grab a bite after a swim or a sunbathe. It also has a bar where you can enjoy a drink or two. Beach Bar & Grill is located by the beach and has a laid-back vibe. It is open for lunch only.
You can get the Fijian Kokoda – a coconut fish dish – here and they serve hefty portions of Western food, too.
Bilo Bar
Bilo Bar is the main bar of the resort, and it serves cocktails, beers, wines, and spirits. It also has a snack menu with items such as nachos, chicken wings, and fries. It is the ideal place to unwind and socialize with other guests. Bilo Bar has a live band every night and a happy hour from 5 to 7 pm. It is located by the lagoon pool and has a great view of the sunset.
Black Marlin Tropical Bar
Black Marlin Tropical Bar is the lively and fun bar of the resort, and it serves cocktails, beers, wines, and spirits. It also has a snack menu with items such as pizza, spring rolls, and calamari. It is the place to go if you want to dance and party with other guests. Black Marlin Tropical Bar has live music and entertainment every night and a happy hour from 9 to 11 pm. It is across from the Takali Restaurant by the Lagoon pool.
Activities in Shangri La Yanuca Island
Shangri La Yanuca Island has a variety of activities for all ages and interests, from nature walks and cultural ceremonies to water sports and golf. Whether you want to explore the stunning coral reefs, learn about the local traditions, or simply have fun with your family, you will find something to suit your mood and preference at Shangri La Yanuca Island.Have daily activities different for day.
Daily activities
One of the best things about staying at Shangri La Yanuca Island is that you will never get bored. The resort has a daily schedule of activities that changes every day of the week, so you can always try something new and exciting.
Kids have their separate program – more in the Kids Club!
Golf course
If you are a golf enthusiast, you will love the 9-hole executive golf course at Shangri La Yanuca Island. The course is designed by British Open champion Peter Thomson and offers a challenging and scenic game for all levels of players. You can also rent clubs and carts at the pro shop, or take lessons from a professional instructor.
Mini put put
For a more casual and fun golf experience, you can also try the mini golf course at the resort. This is a great activity for families and kids and is less time-consuming. All you have to do is show up and give them your room number to start.
Kids Club
Shangri La Yanuca Island is a family-friendly resort that caters to the needs and preferences of children. The Little Chief’s Club is a kids club that offers a range of activities for children aged 4 to 12, such as treasure hunts, face painting, coconut bowling, and more. The club is open from 9am to 9pm and is supervised by trained staff.
For older kids and teens, the resort also has a visual games room where they can play video games, board games, and arcade games. The games room is open from 10am to 10pm and is located next to the mini golf course.
Spa Village
If you are looking for some pampering and relaxation, you can visit the spa village at Shangri La Yanuca Island. The spa village is a tranquil oasis that offers a range of treatments and therapies, such as massages, facials, body wraps, and more. You can also enjoy the facilities of the spa village, such as the outdoor jacuzzi, the steam room, and the relaxation lounge.
The spa village uses natural and organic products that are inspired by the local ingredients and traditions of Fiji. You can also choose from different packages and specials that suit your needs and budget.
Sea Activities
Shangri La Yanuca Island is surrounded by the crystal clear waters of the Coral Coast, which is home to a diverse and colorful marine life. You can explore the underwater world by snorkeling or diving, or enjoy the surface by kayaking, sailing, or parasailing. Some of the sea activities that you can try at the resort are:
• Snorkeling and diving: discover the amazing coral reefs and fish that live in the ocean. You can rent snorkeling equipment at the resort, or join a snorkeling safari that takes you to different spots. If you want to dive deeper, you can also take diving lessons or join a diving tour with the onsite dive center
• Water park: have fun with your friends and family on the inflatable water park that floats on the lagoon. You can slide, jump, and bounce on the different obstacles and challenges
• Fish house building: you can also help create artificial reefs by making fish houses out of cement and coral fragments. You can also track your fish house with GPS after it is deployed in the ocean
• Mangrove planting: help restore the natural habitat of the mangroves by planting mangrove seedlings along the shore. You can also learn about the importance and benefits of mangroves for the environment and the community
Cultural Activities
Shangri La Yanuca Island is not only a place to enjoy the natural beauty of Fiji but also a place to learn about the rich and vibrant culture of the Fijian people. The resort offers a variety of cultural activities that will give you a glimpse into the history, traditions, and customs of Fiji. Some of the cultural activities that you can join are:
• Kava ceremony: as mentioned above, you can experience the traditional Fijian drink made from the root of the kava plant. You can join the ceremony from 11am to 2pm and learn about the history and culture of kava
• Fijian cooking class: learn how to prepare and cook some of the delicious and authentic dishes of Fiji, such as kokoda, lovo, and cassava cake. You can also taste your creations and get a recipe booklet to take home
• Fijian language class: learn some basic words and phrases in Fijian, the official language of Fiji. You can also practice your pronunciation and conversation skills with the friendly staff
• Fijian fire walking show: watch the thrilling and spectacular performance of the fire walkers, who walk barefoot on hot coals. You can also learn about the origin and meaning of this ancient ritual
Sports Activities
If you are feeling energetic and adventurous, you can also join some of the sports activities that Shangri La Yanuca Island offers. The resort has a range of facilities and equipment for different sports, such as tennis, volleyball, and soccer. There is also a gym by the Reef Wing.
Shopping arcade
If you want to do some shopping, you don’t have to leave the resort. The shopping arcade has a variety of shops that sell souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, and more. You can also find a pharmacy, a hair salon, and a photo studio.
I quite like the ring shape of the arcade and you can also find a small supermarket and a cash point. The shopping arcade is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm.
Mindflight7
If you are looking for some adrenaline, you can try Mindflight7, a virtual reality experience that lets you fly, dive, and explore different worlds. You can choose from seven different scenarios, such as flying over the Grand Canyon, diving with sharks, or exploring a haunted house. Mindflight7 is suitable for ages 10 and above and costs FJD 35 per person for 15 minutes. You can find Mindflight7 at the shopping arcade, and it is open daily from 10 am to 10 pm.
Tour desks
If you want to see more of Fiji, you can book a tour at one of the tour desks at the resort. There are various tour operators that offer different types of tours, such as cultural, adventure, or nature. Here are some of the tours you can choose from:
Sigatoka Tour
Sigatoka Tour is a shuttle to the nearby town of Sigatoka by the resort so you can visit the village for some shopping and a roam. It’s FJD$22 for adults and FJD$11 for children and leaves the hotel at 9 am and back at 11:30 am.
It’s one of the bigger cities on the island and you can visit the local market and supermarket while on the trip, and it’ll have cheaper souvenirs!
Rosie’s Tours
Rosie’s Tours is a tour operator that offers tours to various attractions in Fiji, such as the Garden of the Sleeping Giant, the Sabeto Hot Springs, the Nadi Temple, and the Momi Gun Site. You can also enjoy a cruise to the Mamanuca Islands, where you can snorkel, kayak, or relax on the beach. The tours vary in price and duration, depending on the destination. You can find more information and book your tour at the Rosie’s Tours desk at the resort.
Sigatoka River Safari
Sigatoka River Safari is a unique and exciting way to experience the Fijian culture and nature. You will board a jet boat and cruise along the Sigatoka River, the longest river in Fiji. You will see the beautiful scenery, the wildlife, and the villages along the way. You will also visit a Fijian village, where you will be welcomed by the chief, enjoy a traditional lunch, and watch a cultural performance.
See more about my trip here.
Sustainability at Shangri La Yanuca Island
The resort has implemented various initiatives and programs to reduce its environmental impact, support local education and culture, and promote awareness of the region’s fragile ecosystems. Here are some of the ways that Shangri La Yanuca Island is making a difference:
Paper straws
One of the first things I noticed when I ordered a drink at the resort was that it came with a paper straw instead of a plastic one. This may seem like a small thing, but it actually makes a big difference. Plastic straws are one of the most common items found in the ocean, and they can harm marine life and pollute the water. By switching to paper straws, the resort is reducing its plastic waste and protecting the coral reef that surrounds the island.
Waste management system
Another way that the resort is minimizing its waste is by having a waste management system that separates the waste for both room cleaning and food and beverage. The resort has different bins for different types of waste, such as organic, recyclable, and non-recyclable.
The resort also encourages guests to reuse their towels and linens and to avoid using single-use items such as plastic bottles and bags.
Weekly litter petrol
The resort also cares about the cleanliness and beauty of the island and the surrounding areas. Every week, the staff members do a litter patrol around the resort collecting any trash or debris that they find, and disposing of it properly. This not only improves the appearance of the island but also prevents the litter from entering the ocean and harming marine life.
Community based stuff as well
The resort is also actively involved in the local community, especially in the education and culture sectors. The resort has adopted three schools in the nearby villages and supports them with various projects and programs. For example, the resort has improved the school facilities, donated books and supplies, and sponsored scholarships for the students. The resort also organizes outreach programs that focus on marine conservation and environmental awareness and invites the students to visit the Shangri La Marine Education Centre, where they can learn about the relationship between terrestrial and marine habitats, and participate in activities such as fish house building and coral painting. The resort also respects and celebrates the Fijian culture, and showcases it through traditional ceremonies, performances, and crafts.
Biodegradable water bottles
These bottles are made from corn starch, and they can decompose in a matter of months, unlike plastic bottles that can take hundreds of years. The resort provides these bottles to the guests for free. This way, the resort is reducing its carbon footprint, saving water, and preventing plastic pollution.
Most staff are Fijians
The resort is also proud to employ mostly Fijians, who make up about 90% of the staff. The resort believes in empowering the local people and providing them with opportunities for growth and development. The resort offers training and mentoring programs for the staff and supports them with health and wellness benefits, such as medical insurance, fitness classes, and sports facilities. The resort also recognizes and rewards the staff for their outstanding performance and service, and fosters a culture of teamwork and camaraderie.
Minimise the use of papers
The resort is also conscious of its paper consumption and tries to minimize it as much as possible. The resort uses QR codes instead of printed materials, such as menus, brochures, and flyers. Guests can scan the QR codes with their smartphones, and access the information they need online. The resort also uses digital platforms for communication and marketing, such as email, social media, and websites.
