You don't have to check into a 5-star luxury resort to enjoy Fiji's nature, adventures or fruity cocktails. In fact, Fiji's activities and sights are enjoyed far better when you have some spare change to spend on a banana boat ride or sailing trip.
Where does your extra money come from? By booking a room at one of the country's quality budget hotels or resorts of course. We've found five of the best to make choosing your next stay on this island paradise a little bit easier.
1. Bedarra Beach Inn
In few coastal countries would you find budget accommodation positioned right on the beach. However, in Fiji this is commonplace and the Bedarra Beach Inn stands as one of the best.
You know about the beachfront, but that's only one highlight. The rooms are comfortable, spacious and well thought out. You can spend your days by the pool sipping on cocktails during happy hour or book a treatment at the onsite BBI Spa.
The Bedarra Beach Inn is all about embracing authentic island life, so you won't find free Wi-Fi or even televisions in the rooms. However, you will be greeted with a traditional Fijian welcome and have numerous opportunities to relax and explore the surrounding area through tours.
Not a bad ocean view from Bedarra Beach Inn (image: Bedarra Beach Inn via Facebook)
2. Beachcomber Island Resort
At Beachcomber Island Resort you don't just have a gorgeous beach outside; you have an entire island to enjoy. The resort is unique in that it has a range of rooms from dorm-style backpacker accommodation to luxurious beachfront huts.
The resort is lively from sunrise to midnight with activities such as diving, fishing, mini golf and cruises available during the day. Nightly entertainment includes a house band, traditional Bula dancing, fire dancers and crab racing, along with plenty of drinks to go round.
For anyone craving a social and active Fiji experience, Beachcomber Island Resort is the place for you.
Travelling friends share a few island drinks at the Beachcomber's bar (image: Beachcomber Island Resort)
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3. Geckos Resort
Tailored towards families, Geckos Resort is tucked away about 500 metres from the beach in a historic village site. Despite having 1.8 hectares, the resort is limited to 28 rooms, making for a more private and peaceful experience.
Large families can book interconnecting Studio Units and all of the rooms are thoughtfully designed with an emphasis on simplicity and space. You're far from isolated, with an onsite restaurant and bar plus plenty of activities such as swimming, bike riding, volleyball and day trips all available at the resort.
You can experience the local culture during the Polynesian Dance and Fire Show held two nights a week. If you do feel like venturing out, Sigatoka is only 10 minutes away, while Nadi is about a 40-minute drive.
Geckos has fun facilities that will keep the entire family happy (image: Geckos Resort)
4. Manta Ray Island Resort
Similar to Beachcomber, Manta Ray Island Resort has its own designated island for guests and a wide range of accommodation including budget-friendly dorms.
You'll never be at a loss for things to do with plenty of land and water activities. Land-lovers can explore the island, take part in cooking classes, participate in sport, visit local villages and much more. Out in the ocean, activities include spear fishing, snorkelling, kayaking and a range of diving experiences.
The compulsory meal package takes care of breakfast, lunch and dinner thanks to delicious feasts of locally-sourced food. At night you can also socialise around the bar or organise a group barbeque.
The resort's defining feature is its manta ray swimming experience available between May and October. Manta Ray Island Resort is one of the few places in the world where it's possible to swim with these magnificent creatures on an organised snorkelling tour.
Find your island adventure at Manta Ray Island Resort (image: Manta Ray Island Resort via Pinterest)
5. Crusoe's Retreat
Perfect for couples, Crusoe's Retreat delivers intimate accommodation right on the beach. Days can be spent going from the fresh-water pool to the azure ocean, receiving pampering treatments at Coco's Spa or finding secluded spots on the beachfront.
At under $100 a day, the SeaView Bures are great for budget travellers, with a comfortable bed and a double shower as well as a front patio. There are other room options available if you'd like to spend a little extra.
Don't be afraid of becoming bored after you've exhausted the cocktails, pool and beach. There are plenty of day tours to choose from including safaris, ziplining, white-water rafting and cruises.
The affordable SeaView Bure at Crusoe's Retreat has all the necessities (image: Crusoe's Retreat)
