Whether you’re a seasoned traveler who’s visited many tropical islands or a first time adventure seeker looking for a unique warm weather getaway, there are few spots as beautiful and as charming as Fiji. Located in the South Pacific, about 1700 miles east of Australia, Fiji is known for its warm and breezy climate, its friendly people, and its glorious beaches. The country is made up of over 300 islands, but the absolute best spot for a vacation in Fiji is Ono Island.
Ono Island is near the southernmost point of the Kadavu Island Chain, and while there are many excellent Fijian destinations, this small part of the archipelago is tops for a relaxing, rejuvenating, and all around fun getaway. Let us tell you why a trip to Ono Island is an amazing experience that you just can’t get anywhere else.
Fiji is Great, But Ono Island is Best
Many first time travelers may think it’s best to stay on one of the two main islands in Fiji, Viti Levu or Vanua Levu. While it’s true that those islands are more developed and may offer a few more options than smaller islands like Ono might, there are some significant drawbacks to staying on Viti Levu or Vanua Levu. For starters, those islands are often more crowded with vacationers; you’ll be contending with packed beaches, large expensive resorts, and, unfortunately, a higher crime rate. Ono Island, on the other hand, offers a more calming atmosphere than anywhere else in the country. It’s pristine and much less built up, but you’ll still have everything you want and more. Visit the Mai Dive resort on Ono Island, and for the duration of your stay, all of your needs will be met.
Additionally, if you love to SCUBA dive, snorkel, or kayak, or if you’ve always wanted to try those activities, you’ll find no better place than Ono Island. The Great Astrolabe Reef surrounds the islands of Fiji, and Ono Island is adjacent to some of its most stunning stretches. Get in or on the water, and you’ll be rewarded with close up looks at many majestic fish, beautiful sea creatures, and gorgeous coral. The water is warm, and the visibility is excellent. And, diving and more is available for all skill levels; even if you’ve never worn a wetsuit in your life, the SCUBA instructors at Mai Dive can prepare you for an unforgettable undersea adventure.
The Island Culture
In addition to having doorstep access to some of the best diving and snorkeling in the world, Ono Island charter fishing boats can take angler guests out for a day on the water. These excursions are led by guides who are native to Ono Island; they know the waters well and can lead you to a great catch.
As for meals, if fresh and natural food is your preference, then you’ll absolutely love the Ono Island cuisine. The warm climate is conducive to growing a wide variety of fruits and vegetables — everything from tomatoes and pineapples to more unexpected crops like breadfruit and taro. It’s all locally grown and locally sourced, and it’s all free of synthetic sprays, so the true, fresh taste comes through.
Finally, when you stay on Ono Island, you’re among the natives, and you can therefore get a feel for what life on the island is truly like. While some resorts in bigger, more populated areas can feel secluded from the location’s real environment, the Mai Dive resort on Ono Island is situated among the local villages. What’s more, the employees at the resort are natives: they know the local ways and customs, they’re warm and friendly, and they’re happy to share their knowledge of the island with visitors. The result is a unique and authentic cultural experience.
It’s Easier to Get to Than You Might Think
If you’ve never been to Ono Island, you might think that it’s difficult to get to because of its small size and remote location. However, getting there is really quite simple. First, you’ll fly into Nadi, Fiji; direct flights from the US are available through Los Angeles International Airport. From Nadi, you’ll switch to a small prop plane and island hop south to Kadavu Island.
Once you’re in Kadavu, a Mai Dive staff member will meet you and help you and your bags onto a private boat for a 90 minute ride to Ono Island. While this is technically the final leg of the journey, the boat ride is truly spectacular. You’ll navigate through calm blue waters, the bright sky overhead, and sea life all around you. Often, there are dolphins jumping nearby, and it’s an all around gorgeous voyage.
Mai Dive: The Perfect Ono Island Resort
Since 2008, the Mai Dive Astrolabe Reef Resort has been welcoming guests from around the world to idyllic Ono Island for a vacation experience like no other. The resort is edged by the crystal blue South Pacific and the lush tropical rainforest. It’s a welcoming outpost on this island paradise, where you can see natural beauty in all its splendor and enjoy life at a more relaxed, casual pace.
Mai Dive is a small and intimate resort with a friendly, attentive staff; you’ll never feel like just another tourist when you visit. Your days will be filled with the island activities you love: SCUBA diving and snorkeling, fishing and kayaking, or just unwinding on the immaculate beaches. All meals at Mai Dive are included, and the incredible dishes are prepared by Fijian chefs. When you stay at the Mai Dive Astrolabe Reef resort, you get the best that Ono Island has to offer: outstanding hospitality, creature comforts, and tropical island breezes, and more. It all adds up to an adventure that you’ll never forget.