Best Beach Hotels in Denarau Island

The upper-middle-range Wyndham Resort Denarau Island has stellar ocean views and a fun vibe that's best suited to families and groups. Since it opened in 2000, there have been three stages of development to include 201 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens, dining areas, and washer/dryers. Guests can snag sun loungers along a scenic though narrow waterfront, or stake their claim at two outdoor pools (one that is adult-only). There are also a kids' club, fitness center, a slew of water sports, and two restaurants for those who don't want to cook. However older units are less modern and showing age, while rooms by the pool can suffer from noise. It's worth comparing rates with the Radisson Blu next door, which has a huge pool complex and more on-site dining options.

This 278-room upscale hotel -- on the man-made island of Denarau -- opened in 2008 and was refurbished in 2015. It boasts great bars and restaurants (some of the best on the island), including a gourmet Thai and adult-only restaurant. Simple but contemporary rooms come with flat-screen TVs, DVD players, minibars, and furnished balconies. The one- and two-bedroom suites also have living rooms, kitchenettes, and washer/dryers. Pretty grounds offer five lagoon–style pools, a swim-up bar, a waterslide for kids, and romantic daybeds. Other amenities include a kids' club, a day spa, free Wi-Fi, and nightly entertainment. Part of the beach has a rocky barrier, but that's typical for the island. The apartment-style rooms at the neighboring Wyndham Resort are a bit more stylish, so it's worth comparing rates.

The upscale Sheraton Denarau Villas includes 82 two- and three-bedroom units on man-made Denarau island. The resort is conveniently situated between the Westin and the Sheraton Fiji, and families and groups choose this hotel over its neighbors in order to have laundry facilities, living areas, and fully equipped kitchens (though unlike at the Hilton, there are no outdoor grills). The two on-site pools are crowd-free, but guests will have to go next door for use of a spa, fitness center, and tennis courts. The on-site Wet Edge restaurant is a solid choice for lunch or dinner, or those who want to keep food costs low can make use of the nearby supermarket. Wi-Fi and parking are both free. The narrow beach has a rocky barrier, and travelers may prefer the wider beach at the less expensive Hilton Fiji Beach Resort.

This four-pearl, 246-room beachfront resort was the first resort on Denarau -- a man-made island that's a 20-minute drive from Nadi airport via causeway. There are two Starwood sister resorts next door, and guests have access to a huge interconnected waterfront area with several pools and dining outlets, an 18-hole golf course, 10 tennis courts, and the largest spa in Fiji -- but there's not much of a beach. Traditionally styled rooms are equipped with the brand's plush bedding and bathrobes, while the newer adult-only wing is more modern (though lacks water views). Service is inconsistent -- sometimes lethargic -- and high prices for mediocre food and Wi-Fi (it's only free for one device) detract from the value. Those hoping to save on food by cooking might prefer the kitchen-equipped rooms at the Radisson Blu. This is one of the lower-priced options on Denarau and best suited for a short stopover.

This popular, four-pearl beachfront resort has 297 rooms built along an attractive corner of Denarau Island with sunset views -- just 20 minutes from Nadi airport. Facilities include a huge interconnected waterfront area, three restaurants, and kids' club, plus access to all the amenities at two adjacent sister properties. If that's not enough, there's an extensive spa, 18-hole golf course, and 10 tennis courts. Five contemporary room types come with comfy beds, balconies, and rainfall showers, but those interested in fully equipped kitchens should consider the neighboring Sheraton Denarau Villas. 

This upscale beachfront resort is part of an attractive man-made island called Denarau, a 20-minute drive from Fiji's main airport. The Hilton opened in 2009 and has 271 rooms equipped with large bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, and outdoor space. It's situated on a long stretch of beach, but guests tend to stick to the pool area, which is separated into two sections: one for adults, and one for families. A spa, free kids' club, and on-site dining add to the value, but guests will have to pay for in-room Wi-Fi. To help offset food and beverage costs, consider upgrading to bigger units that come with kitchenettes and grills. The beach here is larger than at competing properties such as The Westin Denarau, though in general the beaches on Denarau Island are underwhelming.