The picture perfect white beaches you see on Fijian postcards are often not of the main larger islands, but rather the tiny islands scattered out to sea. Lomani Island Resort is located on one of these islands, Malolo Lailai in the Mamanuca chain of Islands. It is about 50 minutes by boat from Denarau Island (or a quick 10 minute flight).
Having stayed in Denarau on my Pacifying the Pacific trip, I was eager to venture out and explore the more intimate experiences around Fiji. I took the Malolo Cat which seemed like a sightseeing tour itself. Arriving at the dock, musicians in flowery shirts played cheerful notes to welcome the arrivals. A quick drive to the resort and I was soon sitting with a coconut drink and checking in.
I was hosted in one of the private Beachfront Bures. These luxurious rooms on the beach are beautifully designed to provide a stylish and romantic ambience. The room has white walls with vaulted ceilings accented with dark mahogany centering on a lounge area and large king sized bed. A desk and flat screen TV are overshadowed by the view of the beach and private terrace.
The bathroom features his and her sinks, Fijian toiletries, a large indoor shower and my favorite aspect, an outdoor open-air shower.
The accommodations had all the standard amenities like air conditioning, fans, tea and coffee making set up, iPod docking station, mini-fridge, safe, and ironing board.
They also offer a complementary daily wash and fold service as well as free wifi (faster speeds can also be purchased).
Walking around I found the 24 rooms and suites stretched across the length of the beach. This allows for maximum privacy in this adults only resort.
I immediately noticed how the guests were all couples which makes sense as the name of this boutique resort means “love” in Fijian.
The next few days I had some time to unwind and get some work done in this tranquil environment. I also set out to explore on the bicycles they have available to guests.
These islands once hosted a copra plantation, so the sandy roads are flanked with palm trees and tropical flowers. There are other resorts nearby and I cycled all the way to the end of the island crossing an airport runway!
Some locals explained there was a handicraft village on the other island, so I wanted to visit but was unsure how to proceed given that I was on a bike and there was a body of water separating me from my destination. Eventually a man walking by and told me to come back at low tide in about an hour. He also said I could leave my bike there and no one would touch it. Stealing bicycles is not as much of a concern if you are on an island.
I eventually crossed at low tide where the reef formed a natural bridge. Many people used this path to traverse the islands. I spoke with some locals mostly working at one of the resorts and found my way to a sleepy beachside village. A man showed me his wood carvings which he laid out on a mat in the sand. His family watched in amusement as visitors don’t usually appear here unless on a tour. The different animal carvings all had specific cultural meanings. I picked up a small turtle and made my way back to the resort.
I love the fact that I could spend an afternoon exploring and mingling with the locals.
The resort also organizes daily activities ranging from snorkeling trips outer reefs by boat to kava (traditional drink) ceremonies. Other available adventures include kayaking, windsurfing, paddleboarding, sailing, or even playing golf. I joined for one of the snorkeling tours and explored the nearby rich and colorful reefs.
Of course a resort like this provides a gym and spa services for couples to relax at the end of the day. The spa pavilion is set up right on the sand surrounded by palm trees.
Meals are served at the main restaurant, The Flame Tree. The seating surrounds the pool overlooking the beach. The cuisine was a mix of international and Fijian fare.
The Lomani Cocktail Bar is adjacent to the reception, but drinks are served throughout the property.
Given the focus of the property, weddings, honeymoons, and anniversaries seem to be very popular here. Besides myself, traveling solo, every other guest was a couple on a romantic escape. This was fine while dining and watching the cultural dances at dinner, but was quite awkward the next morning which happened to be Valentine’s Day.
Let me be clear. I did not intentionally plan to stay at one of the most romantic resorts in Fiji alone and of all days on Valentine’s Day, but thats just how it worked out.
Table for one please.
At least the staff had a sense of humor and brought me out a cake to eat. I thought to myself, “my date is with the spirit of adventure” as I scarfed down my chocolate cake.
The team working at the resort from the reception and management to the serving staff where all really pleasant and just generally smiling and in a good mood. Looking around the paradise that they work in, I can’t blame them.
So even though I was alone I still felt much “lomani” from all around. Now imagine coming with your significant other. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed.
Contact
Lomani Island Resort
Address: P.O. BOX 9732, Nadi Airport, Fiji
Telephone: (679) 666 8212
Website: http://www.lomaniisland.com