Treasure Island Resort

The Treasure Island Resort sits on a private island, making for a secluded and stunning setting. The resort was established in 1972, but the design is a mix of traditional and contemporary -- think pretty thatched-roof buildings with modern wood and wicker furnishings. Both rooms and restaurants lack pizazz and Fijian textiles, however, the grounds have tropical landscaping and lovely sandy beaches. At just 14.5 acres (6 hectares), the island has a compact layout that means not as much space to spread out, though it's also easy to navigate. Note that some guests have complained of unpleasant smells -- not surprising considering this is one of the more densely populated resorts with nearly 100 staff members who live on-site.

Families and kids tend to stick to the pool or kids' club, while couples make use of the wide beaches and snorkeling areas. There are also a nearby private island for picnics or waterfront private dining for romantics. In the evenings, the bar has happy hour specials, followed by live music and dancing. Overall, the resort is best suited to families with children, but the widespread ocean views, spa, and glass-walled wedding chapel bring in a fair amount of couples.

Treasure Island Resort is located within the Mamanuca island chain off the western coast of Fiji's Viti Levu -- the largest of 330 islands in Fiji and considered the mainland. After landing at Nadi International Airport in Viti Levu, guests can reach Treasure Island Resort by taking a 20-minute taxi to Port Denarau Marina, followed by a 30-minute ferry that then connects to the smaller resort boat for a brief transfer. Transfers can be booked directly with the resort or straight from the ferry company, which has several daily departures. Thought it will cost more money, Treasure Island also provides private pick-up service from the airport -- popular for late arrivals. These guests will be shuttled to Vuda Point -- a 20-minute drive from the airport -- before connecting to the resort's speedboat. Splurging guests can also request a helicopter transfer to the island's helipad, though admittedly few choose this route. 

Once on the island, there's a gift shop for sundries, snacks, and beverages at an expected markup, so it might be worth stocking up on some key items before the trip. 

The resort has 68 rooms situated in standalone bungalows -- called bures in Fiji. Rooms have beige tiling, white floors, and contemporary black wooden furniture, and lots of windows to let in light. The design is a bit underwhelming and lacks Fijian charm, though aquamarine textiles, large underwater photographs on the walls, and fresh flowers on the beds add a cheerful vibe. Standard Bures have king-size beds and a couch, while more spacious Premium Beachfront Bures have an additional twin bed and higher ceilings. 

Straightforward bathrooms have small walk-in showers, Frangipani toiletries, and hairdryers. All units are equipped with air-conditioning, ceiling fans, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and mini-fridges (some that are stocked with mini-bar items). Bures have a furnished patio and hammock, and the beach area closest to that room has a set of cushioned loungers and umbrellas specifically for each unit. 

The resort's crowning feature is of course the sandy beaches lining the island. Due to barriers that protect from sea erosion, guests can't walk around the entire island's shore, but there are multiple wonderful beach areas suitable for swimming and snorkeling (free gear provided). All rooms also have their own set of loungers and umbrellas. Another highlight is the pretty three-tiered infinity pool on the island's western side, overlooking the water. It has different sections for kids and adults, though it can get busy with kids. Striped cushioned loungers wrap around the outer edge and many come early to stake their claim for the entire day. There's also a private island close to shore that can be used for picnics, cocktails, and wedding photos.  

Next to the reception area is a large water-sports center with free non-motorized water sports, such as kayaks and stand-up paddleboards. Also here is a PADI dive center with a separate pool for training purposes. One of the most notable aspects of Treasure Island is the environmental program with daily turtle and iguana feedings and a live-in conservationist who also tends to the turtle sanctuary at Bounty Island (the sister resort). The kids' club has daily activities, including feeding the turtles. Other facilities include a mini-golf course, tennis court, and game room with pool and ping-pong tables. A spa has treatments for both adults and kids, plus there's a unique glass-enclosed chapel facing the sea for small wedding ceremonies.  

Wi-Fi is free and there is a guest computer area in reception. 

Most guests sign up for the meal plan since options are limited on the island. The main restaurant called Elevuke offers international buffets, weekly barbecues, traditional lovo feasts (fish cooked underground), and a la carte items -- there is an outdoor dining area next to the pool or one under shade. Each night the staff has a smaller, earlier buffet for children and kids under five eat for free. La Mei Kana is an a la carte eatery open for dinner, serving Fijian-inspired seafood dishes. Next to the water are private huts for romantic a la carte meals, plus there's an adjacent open-air teppanyaki restaurant that receives stellar reviews and has meals that start with a round of sake. The Takia Bar is open from early until late, plus it hosts daily happy hour. There's also nightly entertainment in the form of live music and dancing. A deli and espresso bar is open during daytime hours, as are a sushi bar and poolside grill.